HOW TO: Recycle a Tin Can Into a Gorgeous Outdoor Lantern for Summer Parties

Summer is underway and it's high time for picnics, grilling, and backyard parties! After sweltering in the sun all day, why not invite some friends over to share food and drinks while enjoying the cooler evening temperatures? If you are <a href="http://inhabitat.com/top-6-tips-for-a-green-4th-of-july/" target="_blank">entertaining this summer</a>, you can welcome your guests with homemade punched-tin patio lanterns created from recycled cans. The materials are practically free, and the tiny holes create gorgeous scattered light patterns on your table when you drop a votive candle inside. Make your own lanterns by following our 7 simple steps ahead!

Make your own lanterns by following these 7 simple steps!

All you need to do to get started on this eco-friendly summer craft project is gather the following materials: -2-4 cleaned, empty tin cans (you can use any size) -a hammer -an assortment of nails (for larger or smaller holes) -colorful permanent markers -paper, pencil, masking tape, scissors (if you plan to use a pattern) -votive candles -a towel

Step 1: Gather used tin cans, remove labels, and clean thoroughly. Step 2: Fill each can with water and freeze overnight until solid. The ice stabilizes the can and prevents it from bending when you punch holes in them later.

Step 3: Decide on a design for your punched-tin decorations. You can draw the pattern out ahead of time on a piece of graph paper and tape it to the can as a guide. Alternatively, you can freehand a design without marking it ahead of time. Knitting patterns, wallpaper, textiles, and folk art are all great inspiration sources for patterns!

Step 4: Cradle the frozen tin can in a folded towel (to prevent the can from moving and to catch ice chips). Position a sharp, narrow nail above each mark on your pattern and gently tap it 3-4 times with the hammer until just the point has punched the tin can. Repeat for each mark until you have completed your pattern.

Gently tap the nail to punch a hole in the can - careful not to hit your fingers!

Step 5: Rinse the can under a hot tap until the ice block pops out and allow the can to dry.

Step 6: If you want to add color to your new punched-tin lantern, you can create a variety of fun, shiny designs by simply using colorful permanent markers.

You can color as much or as little as you want - the shiny tin will show through the marker, creating a metallic effect.

Step 7: Drop in some lighted votive candles and enjoy the fun, flickering patterns cast by your new handmade lanterns! Be sure to place the lanterns on a fire-safe surface as the candles can get hot.

Lighted votives nestled in the bottom of the lanterns.

You're all done! Enjoy the light effects from your new recycled lanterns at your next picnic or patio party.