Don't Toss Tin Can Lids: Turn Them Into Adorable Garden Signs

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Old tin can lids are usually destined for the trash can as soon as they've outlived their useful purpose, but did you know that they make a handy material for an adorable garden sign? TikTok creator mrsclarehoops manages to make a collection of cute hanging markers by painting the can lids, writing the plant's name on them, and hanging them from plant stakes.

Since the project uses lids you'd otherwise toss, plus a handful of inexpensive supplies, it's an extremely budget-friendly DIY with an easy assembly process that can be completed in an afternoon. You can also customize each individual label, making this a fun way to add a touch of whimsy to your garden patch. But best of all, the tin lids are sturdier and will last longer than store-bought plastic labels.

To replicate mrsclarehoops' look, start by gathering an assortment of pull-tab tin can lids. Make sure they don't have any rough edges — opening cans with a smooth-edge opener or sanding the edges can make them safer to handle. You'll also need an outdoor-safe acrylic paint (such as the FolkArt Outdoor Acrylic), a paintbrush, a permanent marker, and garden stakes with hooks from which to hang your signs. Something like this pack of 20 Jowxsx Plant Stake Holders will work, as they're specifically designed as plant label hooks. Alternatively, you can follow the DIYer's lead and make your own stakes using galvanized garden wire.

The first step is to wash all your lids thoroughly and allow them to dry. Next, paint the front of each one with your base color, allowing this to dry as well. Use your marker to write the plant's name and, depending on how creative you're feeling, add an accompanying illustration for an extra touch of charm. Once you've finished designing your label, use the tab handle to hang it from the hook on the plant stake, and then drive the stake into the ground next to the corresponding plant. Repeat this process for as many plant labels as you desire.

If you happen to be growing vegetables, you can try painting each label to resemble its plant, like a red label with a green stem for tomatoes or a green one for peas. If you're planning a flower garden, you can also try matching the paint color to the bloom it's labeling to add cohesion to your beds. Either way, feel free to use lids of different sizes, mixing big and small labels for a more varied look. 

@mrsclarehoops ♬ Boccherini Minuet Trio – Aura Classica

If you want to make your labels pretty but aren't a wizard with a paintbrush, consider getting garden stencils — Etsy offers a wide assortment to choose from. However, because even permanent marker can fade in sunlight, if you're relying on a marker for your sign, look for one labeled UV-resistant and be prepared to touch up the lettering each season. Even better if you seal each tin can lid with an outdoor clear coat, which can help prevent both fading and rust.