Smashed Can Christmas Craft

If you’re looking for an easy holiday project that uses items you already have, this smashed can Christmas craft is a fun way to decorate without spending much. The whole idea is simple: take a basic tin can, flatten it safely, and turn it into a charming holiday ornament or display piece with paint, ribbon, greenery, and a little creativity.

This kind of upcycled craft is perfect for budget-friendly décor, quick gifts, and last-minute festive touches. You’ll find step-by-step instructions later in the post so you can make your own in minutes. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Project

This smashed can Christmas craft ticks a lot of boxes.

• It uses inexpensive materials you likely already have, making it an easy upcycling project for the season.
• It also works well for holiday décor, handmade gifts, or quick winter projects when you want something creative without a big time commitment.
• You can customise the look with paint, ribbon, twine, or greenery, giving each piece its own style.
• Because the finished design is lightweight, it’s easy to display on trees, shelves, wreaths, or even tied onto wrapped gifts.

Join our crafting community to find more DIYs and upcycled craft ideas. It feels good to repurpose and upcycle!

Materials Needed

You’ll need the following materials to create this fun festive craft:

• Empty can
• Hammer or mallet
• White paint
• Paintbrushes
• Mod Podge
• Paper Napkin
• Greenery
• Embellishments

How to Make a Smashed Can Christmas Craft

Preparing the Can

Start with a clean, empty can. Remove the label and wash it thoroughly.

Using a hammer or mallet, gently tap the bottom of the can to flatten the middle slightly. Alternatively, you can use a vice to bend the can. You want it to have a bit of a squished shape while leaving the top open.

Decoupaging the Smashed Can

Start by removing the additional plies from the paper napkins. Then paint the can with white paint and let dry.

Add Mod Podge to the can and press the napkin over top. Gently press down with your fingers.

Decorating the Smashed Can

For a finishing touch, fill the can with greenery.

Add a mini sign and other festive embellishments.

Tips & Variations

Creative Variations

You can switch up the look of your smashed can Christmas craft depending on your style.

• Bright red and green paint gives a classic holiday feel, while white, silver, or soft metallics work well for a more modern look.
• Adding scrapbook paper, decoupage, or stencilled designs is an easy way to personalise each piece.
• If you prefer a rustic finish, leave some of the metal showing and pair it with twine, pine sprigs, or wooden beads.

Tips

• Different tin sizes create different effects. Small cans make great tree ornaments, while larger ones work well in wreaths or tiered tray displays.
• Acrylic paint, chalk paint, and even spray paint all work well on metal.
• If the can doesn’t flatten evenly, try pressing it under a thick towel with a rubber mallet for more control.
• When paint isn’t sticking, lightly sand the surface first or apply a metal-friendly primer.
• If hot glue won’t hold embellishments, switch to a stronger craft adhesive that grips metal better.
• And if edges feel sharp, smooth them with a metal file before decorating to keep the project safe to handle.

How to Display the Smashed Can Christmas Craft

These smashed can Christmas pieces fit easily into all kinds of seasonal decorating. One simple home décor idea is to tuck them into a tiered tray or shelf display alongside candles, mini trees, and fairy lights. The contrast of the flattened metal with softer textures makes the whole setup feel more festive.

You can style your smashed can with fairy lights, berries, faux snow or pinecones!

More Upcycled Christmas Crafts

• Upcycled Wooden Christmas Stocking Craft
• Upcycled Silver Tray with Decoupage
• Upcycled Centerpiece Tray
• Upcycled Christmas Centerpiece Craft

Simple Handmade Christmas Craft

This smashed can Christmas craft is a simple way to add something handmade to your seasonal decorating without much effort or cost. It’s quick, customisable, and easy to fit into any style, whether you’re making a few for yourself or turning them into thoughtful little gifts.

If you enjoy projects like this, feel free to save or share it so you can come back to it during your next crafting session.

Let us know if you give this project a try by tagging us on Facebook or Instagram– we can’t wait to see it!

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