recycled lettering

There are endless creative and colorful projects you can make with empty aluminum cans. The printing on these cans is often large and features unique graphics and fonts that you can mix and match to create original and weather-resistant letters for your signs or mailbox.

Here's how: start by collecting and rinsing beverage cans with the letters you want. Slit the cans with a large knife, making sure to place them on a non-slip surface such as a folded towel. Then cut out the aluminum sides with a pair of sharp scissors. Flatten the sides under a weight. Wear gardening gloves, for example, to protect your hands from cuts. The metal can be sharp.

can letters

Use scissors to cut out the letters you want - you can write your name on your mailbox or a message (for example "no flyers please", "welcome" or "be back soon"). Have fun mixing up colors, shapes and logos. Use white glue to glue each letter to a piece of light wood (from a crate, packaging, etc.). Wipe off excess glue and let dry under a weight overnight.

can lettering cutout

To protect your sign, apply a coat of varnish before nailing it up. You could also make a cord for the sign and simply hang it on a door or fence. And for a great way to use the can ends you cut off, go to crafty candleholders.

October 2007 [recycling crafts]
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