Introduction: How to Make a Tin Can Utensil Holder

This Instructable shows you an easy and efficient way of constructing a Tin Can Utensil Holder without breaking the bank. Being durable and relatively small, this project can help any situation that is in need of serious organization. Below, we will display the required materials and steps to finishing this project, alongside our own pictures to illustrate and guide you through the process!

Step 1: Gather Materials

After researching certain materials, prices, and vendors, we have decided that these items from Amazon and Walmart are the best quality for the cheapest price. To make one Tin Can Utensil Holder, you will require:

  • 4 Soup Tin Cans- $4, Walmart Online Store (make sure they're all the same size, we used 10.5 oz chicken noodle soup cans).
  • A Hot Glue Gun- $9, Amazon
  • Wooden Cutting Board with Handle- $10, Walmart Online Store
  • Duct Tape- $4, Walmart Online Store
  • Gold Tape- $5, Walmart Online Store
  • Wooden Cutting Board without Handle- $10, Walmart Online Store.

Below we have attached the individual links for each of our items in case you feel that these are the materials that you would like to use:

Step 2: Decorate

We understand that most DIY projects finish with decoration, but in this case, we found that decorating the individual items before assembly is the easiest method. To achieve a more rustic look against the wooden board, you might also choose to remove the label on the tin can to expose the metal before proceeding.

To start, apply the duct tape around each individual can and cutting board, as desired. In our example, we used blue and gold tape, but any color will look great.

Note: Spray paint can be used as an alternative method of personalization, but it is more expensive and will require more attention and time.

Step 3: Gluing on Cans

This is where the instructions become a little more tricky. We found that the easiest way of assembly is by starting with the cans and cutting board that has a handle. To begin, lay the cutting board down flat, with the handle furthest away from you. Apply a moderately thick layer of hot glue--vertically--to a side of one of the cans (depending on which you think looks best!) and attach with pressure to the leftmost edge side of the board (see diagram). Continue to apply pressure for one minute.

Extra tip: be sure to add extra glue on the edges to ensure the cans stay on.

Step 4: Gluing, Continued

Repeat the previous step three more times, once on the side that already has a can glued on, and twice on the other side of the board (see picture for clarification).

Step 5: Drying Time

After applying the cans, we recommend that you take a few (2-3) minutes to allow the glue to dry. The next step requires a good amount of pressure, and we want to ensure that the cans remain sturdy on the handle-board.

Step 6: Applying the Base

After giving the cans a few minutes to dry, you now should administer a thin coat of glue atop of the other cutting board, perpendicular to its length. Immediately after, take the now handle and cans and place them atop of the glued base (be sure to align the edge of the cans with the edge of the baseboard in a perpendicular format). Apply light pressure to the handle and cans to ensure sturdiness.

Extra tip: be sure to add extra glue on the edges to ensure the cans and board stay on.

Step 7: Complete the Project!

If you followed the instructions, you should have a durable, handy, Tin Can Utensil Organizer! Enjoy!