Introduction: Gallon Safe

About: I like to tinker, That is what I like to do. Sometimes I drop a rhyme, Along with a tool or two. I use what I have on-hand, I keep projects super simple. I do not need more stuff, What I do have is ample. Draf…

Introduction
Hiding, whether in plain view or behind secret panels, is a big business. It is only limited by one’s imagination. There are many places to hide items and keep important things safe from view.

This instructable will describe how to create your own Gallon Safe. The beauty of this instructable is that it is Easy to make with supplies from around the house or readily available. It is Invisible to the undiscerning and discerning alike because it is in plain view. It is Accessible, no need for a combination or key which can be forgotten and lost.

Story
I needed a container to keep some snacks away from vermin and kids while in the basement and shed. Something easy to access, invisible and durable. Keep vermin away, for obvious reasons, as for kids they seem to like my snacks better then theirs. Not to mention, they are always hungry.

There is a lot of space inside a paint gallon container. Modern paint containers have a plastic base with a metal rim and lid. Which makes them more durable then those of our parents. So I ask, "What will you put in your Gallon Safe"?

Enough said, let’s begin to make a Gallon Safe.

Step 1: Tools & Supplies

Tools:
Screwdriver,
Sanding paper 50 and 400 grit (Use a course and a fine grit of what you have)

Supplies:
Gallon Paint Can,
Water and
Sponge

Skill Level:
Easy

Time to Complete:
30 minutes +-

Next Scrape and Sand Lid

Step 2: Scrape and Sand Lid

Remove dried paint and rust from lid. The more you scrape and sand the smoother and easier the lid will come off. So that you do not need to use a paint can opener or screwdriver to access the goods.

1) First use the screwdriver,
2) Next use a course grit, (50 or 80 grit, I am using 50)
3) Finally use a very fine grit. (Greater than 200, I am using 400)

Next Scrape and Sand Can

Step 3: Scrape and Sand Can

Remove dried paint and rust from rim. The more you scrape and sand the smoother and easier the lid will come off. So that you do not need to use a paint can opener or screwdriver to access the goods.

1) First use the screwdriver,
2) Next use a course grit, (50 or 80 grit, I am using 50)
3) Finally use a very fine grit. (Greater than 200, I am using 400)

Next Inside Can

Step 4: Inside Can

Scrape dried pain, wash out dust and paint. This is easy because the bottom is plastic.

Use 50 or 80 grit (I used 50)

Next Observations and Summary

Step 5: Observations and Summary

Observations
You can use a paint can opener or screwdriver but when you remove the paint, rust and sand the edge, you are able to open the lid with your hands.

What will you put in your Gallon Safe?

The benefits of this design are:
1) Easy to make,
2) Invisible and
3) Accessible.

Summary
I am satisfied with the results.

Secret Compartment Challenge

Participated in the
Secret Compartment Challenge