Empty cans...

[Blaundee]

What can I do with the metal cans that store-bought canned foods come in? I have several in use as cat, dog, and chicken feed scoops, but can't think of any other uses... I HATE to throw things away, especially when I just KNOW there is something I can use them for- any ideas?

 

[mobius]

I take both ends off and use them around seedlings...easy to water that way and protects the seedlings in my garden...

 

[milkmansdaughter]

We clean them and take the ends off, and flatten with a few taps from a sledge hammer (or we just step on them, but the sledge hammer is more fun for the kids)

 

[tortoise]

I don't know if this link will work, but if you search "upcycle can" on google or pinterest, you will find a lot. http://pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=upcycle+can Most of the "upcycle" ideas are crafty. If you want something more practical, you may be interested in a solar can heater like these: http://pinterest.com/search/pins/?q=solar+can+heater

 

[Blaundee]

Thanks!

 

[mrscoyote]

A few ideas
flower pots
punch a hole in each side connect string and you have stilts for the kids
use as biscuit cutter
cut decorative designs in sides and use as a candle holder
make a wind chime
Have fun
Nancy

 

[baymule]

Construction paper, glue, decorations, scizzors and kids. Combine with cans to make pencil holders. Let kids wrap them up and give for Christmas gifts.

Cans, kids and paint. Paint the cans and use for flower vases. Pick your own flowers and put in the cans, take to sick people in hospital. Kids can take flowers to their teacher.

 

[Wannabefree]

These are cool ideas. I had forgotten about the solar heater...need to make on of those for my greenhouse!

 

[okra]

Solar heater for a greenhouse - what a great idea. Will add that to our list

 

[Marianne]

You need pop or beer cans (aluminum) for the can solar heater, not food stuff cans.

You can use some of your cans as filler in large planters. I saw some pics a long time ago where someone made 'rocks' using cans wrapped in a couple layers of chicken wire, then coated a few times w/ lightweight concrete. On the same note, you could use them as filler for a concrete edging around your drive or flower bed, too.