Tin-spiration

I love tin cans, big, small, galvanized, new, vintage (just another word for weathered and worn.) There was a time when I carried a metal lunch box to school, had metal watering cans, used metal buckets to wash our car on Saturday. Then metal fell out of fashion and plastic became the rage..and for a time you could only find metal pails, buckets and trash cans at hardware stores or feed stores. But as with everything, there back in fashion, (I promise shoulder pads will come back - but that is another story). Everyone raves about their vintage galvanized tins... the dollar stores, craft stores carry nesting, painted, plain,..you name it. So, I thought I would share a little idea for our little tin cans, using the new Martha Stewart paints and accessories.... This was fun and fast and will make great gifts- you can fill these little gems with anything....here we go....

First you'll need: Tin can(s) new or old, 2 colors of paint ( I used linen and beetle black- love it!!), burlap, stencil of your choice, stencil brush (2), adhesive tape (Martha's rocks!), metal brads, adhesive of your choice ( I use ultimate), wood craft sticks, floral moss (optional) and dont' forget some type of covering for your work surface and of course paper plates...

Let's begin, cut your burlap into squares according to the size of your tin cans...

Now using your first color, sponge on the burlap creating an area of color..

TIP: Stack the burlap squares 2 at a time, as you paint some of the paint will seep through and begin to cover your 2nd burlap square.

Next, choose your stencil and place a scrap piece of burlap underneath. Using the adhesive tape secure your stencil....

Once you have practiced your stencil and feel comfortable with it, stencil the rest of your squares of burlap . Make sure the first color is dry!! With burlap, it dries quickly!

Here are my stenciled squares....No need to worry about the fraying, the paint secures the edges...

Next, add brads to the corners...

Then using your adhesive, cover the back and adhere to your tin pail....

If you would like to add floral moss, now it the time. Using Ultimate ( my go to adhesive), add the moss to the edges or the front. As you can see in the first picture I added the moss in different areas. I am thinking of now adding a sweet sentiment but am waiting for just the perfect thought...

Set your pail aside to dry and admire your work...It looks good!!

Here is another idea to incorporate the holiday season that is coming up....Orange burlap is available at your fabric store---So add it to these little pails and you have an instant fall decoration. Fill it with sweet treats or a holiday scented candle such as pumpkin pie or spiced apple or fill it with little gourds or pumpkins..

Hope this little tin-spiration has found you at just the right time. Until next time,

Chantal