Coffee Can Lantern

This is a very simple way to make a great lantern, when you don't want to bother with propane, can't afford one, or you're jut trying camping out for the first time, and don't know if you're going to like it, and don't want to spend alot of money on expenisive camping gear.

You will need.
1.A metal coffee can
2.A Hammer
3. Nail
4.Large or small candle (depending on the size of your coffee can)
5. Petroleum jelly
6. Bolt cutters, or anything that will cut through a metal can.
7. wire (optional) if you want to carry it or hang it from something.

Steps.
1.take your metal coffee can and poke a few holes in it with the hammer and nail, so you can fit your bolt cutters in enough to snip the can.
2.Cut a rectangle shape out of the center of the can. Making sure you don't cut the can completely, so you can close it for future use. (see picture)
3. place a big blob of petroleum jelly in the bottom center of the can (it helps the candle stick and prevents it from falling over)
4. Insert the candle, and lite, and you've got yourself a homemade lantern made out of things you already have in your house

Optional(Handle)
Before you do the jelly and candle step make two holes on either side at the top with the hammer and nail, and insert the wire so you could use it as a handle. or for hanging.

Lorddrake says: Aug 19, 2011. 9:53 AM

I have always just lit a candle and dripped some wax where you want the candle to stay, then place the candle down before the dripped wax hardens.

I never tried securing a candle using petroleum jelly, how well does it hold?

Kristina23 (author) in reply to LorddrakeSep 5, 2011. 11:01 PM

sorry it took so long to reply. it surprisingly holds really well, and its really easy to clean off. my grandma told me about it, and i thought she was crazy at first, but it works :)