Who would say an aluminum can could become a perfectly functional and creative lamp? An item commonly considered trash has the potential to be recycled into a beautiful ornament. All you need is a few common materials and some spare time to entertain your creative mind.

This simple craft has a lot of room for customization. You get to decide your favorite patterns and shapes for a unique final product. This text will guide you through the detailed steps to create your very own soda can lamp. Make sure to use the pictures as a model of the procedure.

Step 1: MATERIALS

You will need:

2-3 soda cans

1 sheet of card stock

1 pen

1push pin

1 craft knife

1 candle

1 wool string

Step 2: STEP 1: MAKE a HOLE ON THE TOP OF THE CAN

On the top part, cut a circle following the frame of the can. It should be completely open to insert the candle. Make sure you cut from above, or around the top part of the can to have a decent opening from the top.

Step 3: STEP 2: DESIGN AND DRAW YOUR PATTERN.

You will now draw your pattern on the can with the pen. It is important to remember that shapes will change for the final product. Therefore, it is recommended to search for pattern suggestions online.Make sure to leave reasonable space (2 centimeters minimum) between the lines that you draw. A ruler could be effective for this step.

Step 4: STEP 3: CUT, CUT, CUT.

With the craft knife, cut slits on the drawn marks. Note that every mark should be at least 2 centimeters from each other to avoid risks or complications. Make sure you don't cut the whole can's length, instead, try to use the curves on the top and bottom as a mark to stop cutting.

Step 5: STEP 4: PUSH IT DOWN.

With the palm of your hand, gently push down the top part towards the bottom part until the can is fully expanded. When released, the can will take the shape of the finalized lamp. You can use something flat, like a notebook, to protect your palm from potential cuts.

Step 6: STEP 5: HANG IT UP

In case you would like to hang your new lamp,tie a string to the head of the push pin. Push the pin into the top part of the can (as shown in the picture).

Step 7: STEP 6: LIGHT IT UP

You can now light up the candle with a lighter or matches. Once the lamp is ready, you can insert a candle from the top whole and place it wherever it looks great.