If You Have Empty Tuna Cans, You Have The Start Of A Stylish Countertop Storage Solution

Tuna cans might not seem like they have much use left in them after they've been emptied of their tasty treats. However, if you follow the guidance of YouTuber @BirdzofaFeather, you'll find these used cans can actually be transformed into a brilliant small-space solution. This DIY swing-out tower tucks right into place in the corner of a countertop, providing a polished look and a stylish storage idea for smaller spaces. The rack is ideal for storing spices, rubber bands, or any other stray countertop items. It can also be customized with cute labels to elevate the final product.

While the finished tower may look complex, it's actually a very straightforward mechanism, with each individual tier rotating on its own. Each can is threaded onto a central support rod, which in turn is mounted to a flat base. Once fully assembled, the individual cans swing out to reveal their contents, then tuck neatly back into place. If you're keen to try out this DIY storage solution for yourself, you'll need four or five clean tuna cans with smooth, rounded edges. You'll also require spare tuna can lids to glue into the bottom of each can so that they'll nestle properly once stacked, a sturdy plastic straw to use as your central support rod, additional plastic straws which are large enough to fit around the central one, two black iron floor flanges, and a ¾-inch length of black pipe to create an elevated base for the tower.

To make the swing hinge, cut the softer plastic straws into pieces the same height as the tuna can. Then, affix them to the sides of each can with a heavy-duty adhesive like E6000 or Gorilla Glue . Once all your hinge pieces are set, thread the cans one by one onto your central hard plastic straw, using a smaller spacer in between each level so the cans can swing freely without scraping against each other. To make a sturdy base for the tower, affix a floor flange to each end of the pipe, then glue the bottommost tuna can to the upper flange to anchor it. 

When it comes to customizing your storage tower, there are lots of fun options you can choose from. Try creating little printed or hand-calligraphed labels for each compartment, so you know exactly what's stored in each one. This looks particularly cute if you're using the tower to organize your spice collection. You can also paint the individual cans, either different colors on each can or one uniform color for the whole tower, to create a more sophisticated finish. Just remember, tin can be tricky to paint, so use an enamel paint rather than an acrylic to ensure it sticks. 

The kitchen is one helpful spot to place this rack. However, it can also be used in an office or craft room to organize things like paper clips and push pins. It would work well to keep bathroom countertops clutter free, too. Use one to house commonly used items like hair ties within easy reach.