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Looking for a creative and sustainable way to organize your workspace or craft area? Learning how to repurpose cans into supply holders is an easy, affordable, and eco-friendly DIY project that turns ordinary tin cans into stylish containers for pens, brushes, scissors, and more. Whether you’re decluttering your home office, setting up a kids’ craft station, or organizing kitchen tools, repurposed cans offer the perfect storage solution with a personalized touch.
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This guide walks you through every step of transforming old cans into functional supply holders, using materials you likely already have at home.
Why Repurpose Cans for Storage?
1. Reduce Waste
Recycling is great, but repurposing is even better. Giving cans a second life keeps them out of landfills and reduces your carbon footprint.
2. Save Money
Instead of buying organizers or bins, reuse cans you already have. It’s a zero-cost solution for tidy, accessible storage.
3. Personalize Your Space
Paint, paper, and fabric let you decorate cans to match your aesthetic—whether that’s rustic farmhouse, modern minimalist, or colorful and playful.
Types of Cans You Can Use
Not all cans are created equal, but many are perfect for DIY projects. Make sure they are clean, label-free, and have smooth edges before repurposing.
- Soup cans – Ideal for pens, pencils, and scissors
- Coffee cans – Great for bulkier supplies like paintbrushes or rulers
- Baby formula cans – Excellent for holding tools, utensils, or art materials
- Tuna cans (shallow) – Good for paper clips, rubber bands, or small items
Tip: Use a can opener that leaves a smooth edge or sand the rims to avoid injury.
Step-by-Step: How to Repurpose Cans into Supply Holders
Step 1: Clean and Prep the Can
- Remove the label and adhesive residue using warm soapy water or rubbing alcohol.
- Dry the can thoroughly.
- Sand down any sharp edges using fine-grit sandpaper.
Step 2: Choose a Decorating Method
Depending on your style and what materials you have available, try one of the following:
a. Paint
- Use acrylic paint or spray paint.
- Apply primer for better adhesion.
- Let each coat dry fully before adding another.
b. Wrap with Paper or Fabric
- Use wrapping paper, scrapbook paper, or fabric scraps.
- Attach with glue stick, Mod Podge, or double-sided tape.
- Trim excess material for a clean finish.
c. Jute or Yarn Wrapping
- Wrap twine, jute, or yarn around the can and glue as you go.
- This gives a rustic, boho look.
d. Chalkboard Labels
- Paint a rectangle of chalkboard paint and write labels for contents.
- Easy to update and perfect for rotating supplies.
Step 3: Add a Base or Padding (Optional)
If you want to protect your desk or shelves:
- Felt pads under the can prevent scratching.
- Cardboard circles glued to the bottom act as a base.
- Cork or fabric lining inside adds a finished look.
Step 4: Organize Your Supplies
Use the cans to sort and store items by category:
- Pens, pencils, highlighters
- Scissors and rulers
- Paintbrushes and markers
- Makeup brushes or utensils
- Paperclips, thumbtacks, rubber bands (use small tuna cans)
Save this guide for your next rainy-day DIY session! It’s a quick project that makes a lasting difference in your space.
Creative Ideas to Try
- Color-Code Your Holders: Use different colors for each type of supply (e.g., red for writing tools, green for art materials).
- Hang on a Pegboard: Attach cans to a pegboard with zip ties or hooks.
- Create a Rotating Organizer: Glue cans onto a lazy Susan for easy access to multiple supplies.
- Make a Wall Organizer: Mount cans horizontally on a piece of wood and hang it as wall storage.
Want to explore more sustainable storage ideas? Check out our guide on pantry organization with reused boxes.
Conclusion: Turn Trash into Tools
Now that you know how to repurpose cans into supply holders, you can take pride in organizing your space sustainably and stylishly. It’s a simple DIY that reduces clutter, gives your desk or kitchen a facelift, and helps the environment at the same time.
Share this idea with a friend who loves upcycling or crafting!
FAQs
Are repurposed cans safe for kids?
Yes, as long as sharp edges are sanded or covered and child-safe materials are used. Always supervise younger children during the decorating process.
How long do these supply holders last?
When properly sealed and used indoors, repurposed cans can last for years. Paint and adhesive decorations may need occasional touch-ups.
Can I use cans for outdoor storage?
Yes, but use waterproof sealant or outdoor paint to protect them from rust and moisture.
Looking for craft supplies like Mod Podge, acrylic paint, or jute twine? Find everything you need for DIY can organizers on Amazon.
Written by Kate Smith | DIY Educator & Sustainable Home Organizer