The Farmhouse Style Candle Holders You Can Make Using Tuna Cans

One thing DIYers everywhere simply love is making something new using old, would-be discarded items. And what if you could make lovely farmhouse decor by repurposing something that's in your pantry? That's right! We're talking about tuna cans. These perfect little cup-like containers are a goldmine for DIY crafts and upcycling projects, and they're often made of either aluminum or steel, making them strong and durable. Lined with a protective coating on the inside that makes them resistant to rust and corrosion, they're perfect for catching candle wax. So, don't toss your empty tuna cans. Instead, repurpose these old items to make pillar-style candle holders with farmhouse flair.

You'll need two empty tuna cans — thoroughly washed — as well as a small empty bottle. An old hot sauce container or a single-serve milk or juice bottle works well. Place one can upside down so the opening is face down. Then, glue the bottom of the bottle (the larger side) to the center of the can and glue the top of the bottle to the bottom of the other can. That second can's open end should be facing up, and it will serve as your candle holder. Once the glue dries, paint the entire structure with acrylic paint, since it adheres well to plastic and metal. For a chalkier or matte finish, mix in one tablespoon of baking soda per one cup of paint. Allow the paint to dry and add a candle to the top can for a gorgeous, farmhouse-style candle holder.

Indoor farmhouse candles aren't the only way to go when it comes to tuna cans. If you do a lot of entertaining in your outdoor space, you can upcycle these cans to make tiki-style candle holders in your backyard! First, grab a tuna can and a thick wooden dowel for each holder you want to make. Start by drilling a short, thin screw through the center of the inside of the tuna can and into the top of the wooden dowel. This holds the two pieces firmly together. Then, spray paint the whole assembled structure with your favorite hue in a farmhouse color palette. Stake your dowel anywhere in the yard you'd like to add some whimsical glow, and then place a candle in the can.

To make these candle holders as safe and long-lasting as possible, there are a few tips for you to consider. First, try using outdoor-approved flameless candles. Candles made with wax are vulnerable to warping in sunlight and high heat, and flame candles, of course, pose fire risks. Also, when painting this DIY candle holder, use a paint that's intended for outdoor use. Interior paints fade, crack, or peel when exposed to outdoor elements. Whether you illuminate your yard with these DIY torches or brighten your indoor space with the farmhouse variation, tuna cans as candle-holders are simple, safe, and durable, impressing your guests for years to come.