How to Upcycle Soda Cans

Is anyone else low-key obsessed with soda cans? I mean sure, we all know they’re recyclable, and that’s great and all. But have you held an empty soda can up to the light and really looked at it?

They’re lightweight, durable, gorgeously metallic, and there’s something inherently satisfying about the crisp sound they make when you crack open a fresh drink.

It got me thinking… why aren’t more of us giving these tiny aluminum marvels the second life they deserve?

If you ask me, soda cans are way too versatile to simply toss in the bin (even if it is the recycling bin). Every time I spot an empty can in my kitchen, I see an opportunity. It’s like they whisper, “Hey, I could totally be something cool if you wanted me to.” Well, soda cans, challenge accepted.

I’ve tried a ton of creative upcycling projects over the years, and soda cans are always one of my favorite materials to work with.

Whether you’re crafting something functional, artistic, or just plain weird (yes, I once made a soda can tiara for no reason other than it sparked joy), you’ll be amazed by how far a little aluminum and creativity can take you.

By the end of this guide, I promise you’ll never look at an empty can the same way again.

Why Upcycle Soda Cans?

Before you roll up your sleeves and grab those cans off the counter, I need to share just how awesome this material is. Aluminum cans are the dream upcycling material, and here’s why:

• Lightweight Yet Strong. Soda cans are super easy to handle but still hold their shape well.
• Flexible. Aluminum is incredibly malleable, so you can bend, cut, and reshape it without needing any special tools.
• Endlessly Reusable. Unlike some materials that wear down, aluminum can be worked with over and over again.
• Eco-Friendly. Recycling is great, but reusing cans directly saves the energy it’d take to process them in a factory.
• They’re Everywhere. One casual gathering and suddenly you’ve got a pile of “raw materials” ready to be transformed.

Alright, if I haven’t sold you on the greatness of soda cans yet, just wait until we start getting into the projects.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before jumping into all the inventive soda can projects you’ll soon be obsessed with, you’ll need a few supplies to make the process smooth and (relatively) safe. Here’s what I always keep on hand when I’m working with aluminum cans:

Tools:

• Heavy-Duty Scissors or Tin Snips. Regular scissors might work in a pinch, but tin snips will take you far.
• Gloves (a must). Because aluminum edges can be sharp, and no one wants an accidental finger slice.
• Sandpaper or Emery Board. To smooth out any jagged edges. You’ll thank me later.
• Ruler or measuring tape for precision cuts.
• Hot Glue Gun or Super Glue. For putting pieces together and securing embellishments.
• Pliers for detailed bending and shaping.

Materials:

• Empty soda cans (obviously). Rinsed out and dried, please!
• Acrylic paints, spray paints, or metallic paints for decoration.
• String, twine, or ribbons depending on the type of project.
• Decorative odds and ends like beads, rhinestones, or scrap fabric for extra flair.

What’s great about soda can projects is they don’t demand expensive tools or fancy supplies. The basics you probably already have lying around will get you started just fine.

Creative Ways to Upcycle Soda Cans

Now for the fun part. Whether you’re into practical crafts or purely artistic creations, soda cans can rise to the occasion. Grab your stash and prepare to be wowed by just how versatile they are!

1. Soda Can Lanterns

One of my go-to projects is transforming empty cans into lanterns. The way light flickers through the aluminum is nothing short of magical.

How to Do It:

1. Rinse and dry your can completely.
2. Use a pencil to sketch out the design of your lantern. You can go simple with vertical slits or get intricate with floral or geometric patterns.
3. Carefully cut your design into the can using scissors or a precision knife.
4. Smooth any sharp edges with sandpaper.
5. Pop in a tea light (or better yet, a battery-operated candle).

Hang them on your patio, string them up for a garden party, or just scatter them around for cozy indoor vibes.

2. Planters for Succulents or Herbs

Why buy more pots when soda cans are just the right size for small plants? Plus, the metallic shine is totally chic.

How to Do It:

1. Cut the top of the can off using scissors or a can opener.
2. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.
3. Decorate the outside with paint, stencils, or washi tape.
4. Poke a couple of small drainage holes at the bottom.
5. Add soil and your plant of choice.

Whether you’re growing herbs in your kitchen or succulents for your windowsill, these upcycled planters are guaranteed conversation starters.

3. DIY Soda Can Jewelry

Who knew soda cans could be fashionable? With a bit of cutting, bending, and creativity, you can make earrings, necklaces, and even bracelets.

How to Do It:

1. Flatten an empty can by cutting it open and smoothing it out.
2. Trace designs onto the aluminum, whether that’s teardrop-shaped earrings or funky geometric pendants.
3. Cut out your designs, smooth the edges, and punch holes where needed for chains or earring hooks.
4. Paint or embellish your jewelry for a truly unique look.

You’ll look stylish AND sustainable with accessories no one else has.

4. Metal Wall Art

Aluminum cans make for stunning wall décor. Think shiny flowers, 3D geometric shapes, or even intricate mosaics.

How to Do It:

1. Cut your cans into flat sheets.
2. Shape and layer the aluminum into your desired design.
3. Use strong glue or nails to secure the pieces to a backing, like a wooden board or canvas.

The metallic finish instantly elevates the look, making it the perfect accent for modern or industrial-style interiors.

5. Custom Drink Coasters

My coffee table thanks me every day for this project. Soda can coasters are the right blend of functional and fun.

How to Do It:

1. Cut the top and bottom off your can, leaving just the cylindrical middle section.
2. Flatten the aluminum and trace coaster-size circles or squares.
3. Decorate the surface with paint or even découpage with patterned paper.
4. Add a felt backing to prevent scratches.

These make for awesome conversation pieces when guests come over.

6. Wind Chimes

Turn soda cans into whimsical wind chimes that’ll dance in the breeze.

How to Do It:

1. Cut your cans into strips, shapes, or even hang full pieces for variation.
2. Paint each piece or leave some bare for shiny contrast.
3. Use fishing line or string to attach the soda can parts to a base. An embroidery hoop or piece of driftwood works perfectly for this.
4. Hang it up and enjoy the soft clinks and chimes every time the wind plays with it.

This is a particularly great DIY for patios and balconies.

7. Soda Can Sculptures

If you’re in the mood to go big, why not try your hand at creating mini soda can sculptures? Aluminum is easy to work with, so you can sculpt flowers, animals, or abstract designs.

How to Do It:

1. Cut your cans into various pieces and shapes.
2. Use pliers to bend and curl the aluminum into 3D forms.
3. Piece everything together using glue or small wire to create your sculpture.

The possibilities here are only as limited as your imagination.

Pro Tips for Soda Can Upcycling

1. Be Safe. Always wear gloves and handle sharp edges carefully.
2. Experiment with Finishes. Spray paint and metallic paints can give your aluminum a polished, professional finish.
3. Flatten with Care. If you need flat aluminum sheets, cutting a slit down the side and pressing the can gently is the easiest way.
4. Save the Tabs. Don’t forget those pull tabs! They’re perfect for adding detail to your projects or turning into their own crafts.

Final Thoughts

Upcycling soda cans is one of the most satisfying ways to give new life to something that most people wouldn’t think twice about discarding.

Every time I finish a can of soda now, I can’t help but wonder what it’s destined to become next. A glowing lantern? A pair of edgy earrings? A cozy little planter?

If you’ve got empty cans taking up space in your kitchen, don’t see them as clutter. See them as potential. Grab those scissors, pull out the paints, and get ready to wow yourself (and your friends) with how inventive upcycling can be. Trust me, you’ll never look at a soda can the same way again.