Don't Toss Empty Tuna Cans: Turn Them Into Adorable Mini Candles

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Lighting a candle is an easy way to brighten the mood. But let's face it, they can be pricey at home decor stores — even ones that are just "meh." If you want charming little candles that are unique and budget-friendly, hang onto those empty tuna cans. With a fun, multi-step DIY, you can transform them into candle tins with personality, then add wax to finish the job. The end result is the cutest DIY decor that's completely unrecognizable. Keep them for yourself, or share them with loved ones who also have a passion for candles.

There are all kinds of ways you can disguise the outside of tuna cans to repurpose them. For this project, shared by TikToker suzyyasu, decoupage is the technique of choice. It allows you to choose decorative napkins that speak to your tastes, which you then attach to the cans using Mod Podge. The napkins could be covered in things like florals, stripes, or lovable characters. For example, these SGWQBDN Mediterranean Decoupage Napkins come with a variety of designs in the set. You'll also need white acrylic or spray paint and three large wooden beads (per can).

As for the candle-making part of the process? Swoop into a craft store for wax and candle wicks. Keep in mind that each tuna can will require a few ounces of wax. Fortunately, you can get a large amount of it without breaking the bank, such as this Make Market Paraffin Wax at Michaels, which is approximately $7 for 1 pound. Remove the labels and place your cans in hot, soapy water prior to starting the project. Allow them to soak, then scrub them with a brush. Just be careful of any sharp edges.

The first step is to apply a base coat to the outside of the cans using the white paint. Once they're dry, decoupage the cans one at a time. Open up a napkin and remove the very top layer of it. Cut a strip that's long and wide enough to fit around the can. Now, paint a coat of Mod Podge onto the can's outside and attach the paper strip. Smooth out any bumps if needed. After giving it time to dry, apply a second layer of Mod Podge to seal the decorative napkin on.

@suzyyasu

Who knew a simple tuna can could turn into the cutest cozy candle? 🕯️✨ This easy DIY transforms everyday items into beautiful handmade decor using Mod Podge, napkin art, and a touch of creativity 🤍 Perfect for farmhouse, vintage, or cottage style lovers — and such a budget-friendly idea to elevate your home! Save this idea for later and try it yourself. Like + Save for more DIY ideas 📌 Follow for more cozy home inspiration. #creatorsearchinsights #mothersday #like? #candle #upcycling @Suzi Yasu | Home Finds & UGC

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Repeat these steps until all of the containers are complete. (If you end up with any extra, don't forget that you can transform tuna cans into mini desktop planters, too!) Trim any excess paper off the decoupaged cans, or sand it off with a nail file after they're dry. Glue a few wooden beads around the bottom of each can to serve as feet. Make sure they're evenly spaced in order to hold the containers up. 

You're now ready to repurpose the tuna cans into candles. Melt the wax on your stovetop using a double boiler (mix in fragrance oil if desired). Glue wicks to the inside centers of the cans, then fill the containers approximately three-quarters of the way with wax. Lay a skewer or pencil on either side of each wick, which will help hold it up while the wax hardens. Once the candles are set, trim the wicks down to an appropriate size.

One of the perks of this DIY is that you can make candles that blend with your style. For instance, love the French country aesthetic? Grab napkins with romantic designs, like these CMUSKO Vintage Floral Paper Napkins on Amazon. Are you an animal lover at heart? Opt for napkins that are covered in your four-legged friends, such as IHR Boston International Hot Dog Breeds. When a holiday is on the horizon, craft candles using festive prints and fragrances. It's a wonderful way to make personalized gifts, too, which you can complete with ribbons.

As with any candle, it's important to practice safety precautions with ones made from tuna cans. If you'd prefer to avoid flames, you could always skip the second part of the project and use battery-operated candles instead. Simply pop flameless tea lights into the cans for a beautiful glow. Want them to be even more unique? Try tea lights that are colorful, like these BEICHI Color Changing LED Tea Lights. You could also place taller versions into the cans for a completely different look.