Time, it just seems to whizz by, doesn't it? Especially true when you have children.
Anyway, this year, the teachers have kindly requested for Angel to bring along a handmade, recycled lantern for the Mid-Autumn celebration. I thought it was a pretty neat idea because it encourages parents to spend time crafting with their kids and also teaches them the importance of recycling and being eco-friendly.
So, I really wanted a lantern that can last and instead of the more commonly seen, and easier to make, paper lanterns, we decided to make metal lanterns. Ah huh! Do I have your attention now? In today's Creativity 521, we are sharing with you our DIY Tin Can Lanterns, which are specially dedicated to my precious Angel and little Mermaid.
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-YbuW2v.jpeg)
1) Cleaned, empty tin cans with lids removed (Mine were from canned fruits)
2) Hammer
3) Nails of different sizes
4) Printouts of the images or patterns you desire
5) Tealights
6) Permanent markers
7) Scissors
8) Ribbons
9) Sticky tape
10) Rattan sticks
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-uqNnBu.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-oPeaJO.jpeg)
Tip: If you find that your can is too malleable and punching too many holes causes it to be dented, you can insert a wooden block into the can to act as a support. Or, you can first fill the can with water and let it freeze before making the holes. Remember to put a towel underneath when hammering and once you are done, you can rinse the can and remove the ice block.
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-UAhvUy.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-0rigl0.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-iIOMhm.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-yaLVUl.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-zOSOre.jpeg)
Tip: Since tin can lanterns can be a little heavier than paper lanterns, make sure your rattan stick is strong enough and to prevent drooping, let your child have a better grip by cutting the stick short.
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-W6PZ6T.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-9Npcf7.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-gsqxOe.jpeg)
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-SjYlzP.jpeg)
Tips: Since it is made of metal, note that the lantern can get a little hot after awhile (but not burning hot). Also, if your kid likes to fling the lantern around, it will be better to stick the tealight to the base and be careful of the hot wax. Lastly, before giving the lantern to your child, make sure there are no sharp or prickly edges. As always with fire, do exercise caution when you are out with the kids.
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-Lm_VgZ.jpeg)
We are definitely loving our new 'old' lanterns!
How are you celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival this year?
For more ideas on kids' craft, visit my gallery here.
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![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-Ae0rJd.jpeg)
To fellow bloggers who have a fun craft session, DIY tip or creative idea to share, come join in the party! Highlight and press Ctrl + C to copy my button above, include it in your post/sidebar and add your link below. I will be hosting Creativity 521 on the 5th and 21st of every month, do hop over for more inspiration. Remember: The sky's the limit when it comes to creativity!
![Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns Creativity 521 #52 - DIY Tin Can Lanterns](http://m5.paperblog.com/i/99/997335/creativity-521-52-diy-tin-can-lanterns-L-2zkKkW.png)