Drink Can Tinwork

Here's how to make a charming little embossed metal box out of an aluminium drink can.
It's really easy to do and requires no special tools.
The edges of the metal can be quite sharp though, so watch your fingers!

[@saiaddict]

no way ! i watched this yeeeeears ago ,i tryed like 10 times to make them but i could never quite get it good , i might retry this now like 8 years later

[@Gripprear69]

How did it go? If you have done any.

[@Dashyrre]

Did you?

[@humanitarianharjot402]

What the...🤔 It's really a piece of art!~

[@sinisterhipp0]

Oh shit! I’m subscribed to this channel more recently. And I just stubbled across this video. I think I saw this video and made a box probably close the time you realised the video. KZbin is much bigger now but I end up on your channel again. I don’t even need to watch the video the information for some reason has been retained in my head for over 10 years.

[@leomorgan3105]

Five years later and still one of the most amazing craft videos out there. I just can not believe that this is the only one of its kind, not only on KZbin, but anywhere that can be searched by Google, Ask, or Yahoo! If I am wrong, please let me know where to find them (even though I doubt they would be the equal of this one). P.S. This is NOT a paid political advertisement. P.P.S. "AtomicShrimp"?

[@slydoll7877]

It's proper, beautiful craft isn't it?

[@TheSpelledMilk]

Leo Morgan You are exactly right. I looked all morning. The only video of its kind. Great video, I'm so glad I found it.

[@user-tr2dh4xx6u]

Theres alot of crafts like this online but yes this one is done prettt well

[@TheSweetMartinez]

2024

[@leemorrison7240]

@@TheSweetMartinez ?

[@francescairving2678]

Been loving your channel for a year now. But only decided to go back and watch your old work... Just as lovely as your new stuff!❤️

[@pernanjp]

I haven't done this yet, but I've done similar "motions", and I agree. I think a full can would be easier than a flat sheet to handle because you don't need to anchor it to a surface and keep it still. It would be easy to hold one end while moving the sandpaper around the other end without missing any edges. Some people would even like to leave the paint on an use that as the outside of the box, without embossing.

[@AtomicShrimp]

The central square is 2 inches - the side panels are an inch tall and the tabs are any size you like (depending mostly on the amount of remaining metal). If you look up the related articles on the Atomic Shrimp website, you'll find some additional printable templates for other shapes.

[@katterkat58]

Thank you. I was hoping you had the measurements in the description of the video. You need to pin this to the comments section before it gets lost in the shuffle. I am making one of these for my husband for Christmas. Thank you again.

[@terriberg29]

So pretty and you made it easy to see all the squares with the diagrams! I've always loved tin square ceiling tiles and wanted to use them, but they are very expensive! This is a great alternative and a great way to upcycle! Thanks!

[@Randomona]

This video has inspired me to experiment with soda cans a lot and I still learn so much! Thank you.

[@AtomicShrimp]

You're right - it's worth practicing on a spare piece of metal to work out just the right technique. If you use too yielding a material underneath the metal, this can also cause the lines to cut through.

[@LovinglfDesigns]

The aluminum used in soda cans in the USA is very thin and prone to snapping as many have discovered. It's possible to reinforce it using aluminum foil tape, which can be found in the electrical section at the hardware store. Embossing looks just as beautiful on the aluminum foil tape. An added benefit is that the aluminum foil tape is strong enough to seal the sharp edges. Use the aluminum foil tape on the inside of the box so the tape lines are hidden. Great video by the way.

[@AtomicShrimp]

Sorry to hear that. It sometimes happens - might be worth trying a completely different brand of can - and experiment a bit with different amounts of pressure when scoring the lines with ballpoint. Unlike card crafting, you can't fold this stuff more than absolutely necessary (so folding over then back will definitely crack the seam)

[@AtomicShrimp]

From experience, it's harder. When flattened, the metal has dips and bumps in it, which make it hard to remove all of the paint - also, it makes more of a mess. When the can is full, it's rigid and this makes it much easier to work on the surface.

[@paulfrost8952]

I found youtube video were someone used a clothes iron to flatten the sheet then removed the print on the outside.

[@theelaavar]

I need some small boxes to put my single use soaps in and this is beautiful! I'm going to have to see how cost effective it is to make some. Thanks!

[@macolady]

That is the best explanation, step by step with clear instructions and filming/showing the steps I've seen on youtube period. Thanks!

[@leloodallasmultipass]

@Magnulus you might try scoring the lines with a very large sized ball point pen so that the creasing occurs over a larger surface area, thereby distributing the stresses.

[@AtomicShrimp]

Make sure you get an aluminium can, not steel (test with a magnet - if it sticks, choose a different can), experiment with the folding technique on a spare piece of metal first, before you invest a lot of effort in making a pretty pattern - a lot of people are saying they had problems with the metal cracking along the crease lines

[@tinilee64]

Thanks for the tip! Very wise. We have friends that live in Bali they brought as a gift for me. I ran across your video quite some time ago and again this morning. 😊 I recycle ♻️ so I have tons of tin cans so with some practice I hope to make one as nice as yours.You make it look so simple. When I do conquer your technique I’ll be back to let you know.. until then be well thank you again for sharing your talent.

[@Kirodev]

Oh my goodness...this is amazing and I will absolutely do this next time I visit my parents since they're the ones that buy coke cans. You, good sir, are a wonderful gift from God

[@twangya]

This is beautiful and amazing! Thank you so much for putting it up here!

[@MsSmart0707]

I'm very excited to try this wonderful project. How creative & talented, thank you for sharing.

[@cheliae8560]

This is BRILLIANT!! Thank you so much!!

[@philipareed]

Oh, Mike. This sounds so clinical compared to your contemporary fare. You have softened your prose beautifully. I want to tell you something: Should I have a list of things (anything) I like, I work backwards (least liked first), unlike many people. You are last.

[@AtomicShrimp]

Thank you - that's very kind. I actually intend to be revisiting this craft quite soon, so a direct comparison of style will be possible!

[@TerTheBearWilliams]

This is such a lovely and unique way to use old aluminium drink cans! Thank you for sharing!

[@828burke]

This would be neat to try using alcohol inks and some kind of sealer on, or maybe to use as a base for electroplating

[@BernhardHofmann]

This is the first time I've seen this. What a great little project. Your voice is just amazing by the way. I wish i had your accent.

[@Morbius1963]

Very "non-U", actually, some might say. No offence intended. Well explained though.

[@faithhopelove7777777]

Beautiful! think I'll make wall tiles using this technique! Thank you!

[@AnneGirlCarrots]

This gives me a GREAT idea to make a backsplash tin tile for my kitchen apartment above the stove! Thanks!

[@ElisavanYaslana]

love the term 'upcycled' very fitting for this project!

[@MsAngelique]

You could sell those for cheap but still make profit

[@geraldinegranado3386]

💚❤💚❤💚 thank you! Been looking for ideas for an outdoor shadow box for my Christmas tree 🎄

[@SharonLippincott]

I love your design! Pure acetone nail polish remover makes short work of paint on aluminum pans.

[@demnlordd666]

this is cool. what a good use of commonly available materials! my girl thought that it was a cool project, said that the boxes were cute. might have to try my hand at something like this soon. I love making things, especially when the materials and set up tools aren't super pricey. thanks for the idea.

[@caroljmartinez]

It will work with embossing folder. What a cute idea. Thanks for sharing your idea!

[@YumuraPax]

Mann thats what i can call an out of the box idea :)

[@Paulol100]

Great video Thanks Your wonderful voice made me homesick...Ann in Canada

[@lincolnyellick]

Watching older shrimp videos are really best enjoyed in black and white.

[@Yorkie2]

Brilliantly explained and illustrated. Thankyou.!!

[@mrgardenprojects1783]

Amazing video. I really like what you have done with an empty can of drink. I'm going to have to try this for myself. Thanks for sharing.

[@woodenshoelane]

Great video! Thanks 4 sharing! Love ur accent :)

[@appleturnover41]

thats a little work of art, thanks for sharing

[@JadedByEntropy]

wow this is amazing. Pop Tab Ingenuity brought me here lol i'm sooo using these as gift boxes...ive been folding origami ones, but this is awesome

[@CatOwens]

So brilliant, I am going to do this. Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful talent :D

[@dezi1768]

Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!

[@LMRitwock]

MIND=BLOWN!!!!! I will definitely be trying this out, thanks so much for this tutorial.

[@angelasheppard8477]

changing my mind about aluminum cans.not just for recycling anymore

[@Flippables]

Thanks, great! I wonder if you sand the rectangular piece when it is already taped into place.

[@AtomicShrimp]

Thanks for the advice. I tried flame annealing over the gas hob, but the metal is really thin and it's easy to melt and deform it. Maybe a bunsen burner choked so it produces a cool yellow flame?

[@CreatorCade]

That's great now I'm going to try this as soon as Christmas is over.

[@nicknamednickify]

Thanks for the great idea. I made a new top for a pencil box that I like to carry my pens and stuff around in. I had to use a Peace Tea size can. I used a nautical theme and got a lot of good comments on facebook.

[@TheBushdoctor68]

Wow, that is amazing. Have you ever tried adding 'patina' to the final product? You can apply (brown) shoe polish to the surface, then rub it off with a piece of cloth. That will leave darker patches in lower areas and should make the artwork stand out even better.

[@boardluva108]

Just finished the top and I'm onto the bottom after dinner :D Thanks for this tutorial!! I really appreciate it!!!

[@topcatskk]

Just a Great video Simple Nice Clear Detailed Instructions.......! Just shows the way a video clip should be made ! PLEASE MAKE MORE Tom - Ireland.

[@xsunshine728x]

i just recently received a sketchbook for my birthday just a few days ago, i wasnt quite sure what i wanted to draw on it, but after seeing this video, all ive wanted to do is cover it on soda cans... thank you so much for uploading this video :D:D

[@yesnobabu]

hey thats so great,i never thought these cans are so worthfull to make such beautifull art.......you made it so great and inspiring...

[@algae1000]

Brilliant!

[@lucretiaonutube]

Awesome! I'm going to try this out as soon as possible. Thanks for sharing

[@nanitaheart]

Very pretty!

[@ShoshiPlatypus]

A beautiful little box made from free materials! That I like. Good video tut, too!

[@ZeeZeeTope]

Thank you! That is just beautiful!

[@Cyrilmc222004]

Great idea, so effective too!!!!! It's amazing what you can do. I will certainly have a go at this too. Well done & thank you.

[@matildewilliams5297]

Gorgeous, fantastic, amazing awesome!!!!!!!!!

[@googalsalot]

Wow, absolutely perfect tutorial for what I want to achieve. Many thanks

[@eastendcrafter19]

Very nice. Looking forward to trying it. Thanks!

[@dokujunkie8655]

good instructional video... the box looks nice, too

[@PeridotEyes]

Delightful! I'm absolutely charmed by how wonderful this is. Good show, Atomic Shrimp.

[@youvinicio]

Hello I'm from Italy and appreciate your work...very nice!!

[@chaitanyakrishnan]

this project is so simple and brilliant! i've only done animals(well bugs mostly) in the past (search my videos for "can crab") will definitely give this one a shot thanks for sharing

[@lizzyanthus1]

Beats the heck out of tossing it in the trash can or recycle bin! Thanks for a great vid!! And I like AnnieGirlCarrots idea of a backsplash! Hmmm....

[@tyle72]

What a great idea. Thank you for sharing . I can't wait to start my own metal box, and I'll be careful

[@Kavaji1979]

Very unique. Love this idea.

[@AtomicShrimp]

@zoeylife2 There are some downloadable layouts for this on the Atomic Shrimp website

[@stanky6261973]

Phenomenal work!! TFS

[@kathberry8]

..this is one of the most wonderful things I've ever seen...

[@michellebogle5428]

that was so freakin cool dude! Thank you for sharing that. I loved it!

[@JaylinMcInerney]

First, Great job on the tutorial. I loved it. I'm always looking for ways to reuse soda cans.

[@AtomicShrimp]

Sounds like maybe you need a slightly softer material underneath the metal when you draw on it (are you sure the can you used was aluminium, not steel? - check with a magnet)

[@KraftwithaK]

This is a really nice project and a well done video. Thank you. I've put it on my Pinterest.

[@esrakarabuluttr]

Thank you for clear instructions. I tried last night with beer can. I found a little bit difficult to draw shapes on can. I will try this technic on alimunium foil today.

[@mordred2002]

Really nice inspiration. I appreciate it very much here from Brazil.

[@DeadlyDad]

What a brilliant idea!

[@pegasusquilts]

stumbled here by accident, can't wait to try it. I've been collecting tabs & recycling the cans wondering what I could do with them....will have to look out re: the size though.

[@gharoujimy8292]

So beautiful 😍

[@craftylittlerthings]

fantastic I loved this

[@aimeemacdn]

This is brilliant, thanks for posting! I can't wait to have a go.

[@JohnTheHater]

I want to do this in copper, but I'll practice with some cans first... LOL Cool idea, thanks.

[@alexandregb566]

It's very interesting. I've never thought about that.

[@montgomerypython9966]

Now that's impressive !! I suppose it works better with beer cans, Eh ?? lol. Good video, well explained, Thanx alot for sharing

[@rmadllo]

This is just freaking awesome! I would probably skip the sanding and cover the can logo with something -- scrapbook paper or some such. Again, this just blows my mind how you took a regular can and made something beautiful out of it.

[@AtomicShrimp]

You can, but I found it easier to do when the can is full

[@AtomicShrimp]

If you can't find drink cans that work, try cutting open a metal squeeze-tube of tomato paste - these are still just aluminium, but they seem to be a really malleable alloy - after washing off, the metal can be burnished flat using the base of a flat tumbler on top of a board

[@JustBySoco]

Great job!! You impress me!!

[@ELECTRONICAMOM]

YOU ARE AN EXCEPTIONAL ARTIST !

[@PatriciaPageMosaicArtsCrafts]

Brilliant tutorial and project! Thank You!

[@GerardoLopez-bz3qs]

hermoso trabajo y un buen arte..gracias por mostrarnos un poco de sus artes.. q dios lo cuide mucho....y mucho éxito ...gracias

[@ImpishDIY]

Oh wow, that looks beautiful. I'm so tempted to try this!

[@beckarkottke]

thats awesome. ive done lots of paper box crafts similar to this but ive never seen it done on tin! it looks great :)

[@ritaspratlen]

How wonderful!!! Thanks so much!!

[@DIYng2Live]

I agree, it is easier to remove the paint when full. Should you prefer to empty the can of liquid, first wash the can thoroughly and then I suggest filling the can back up with sand. The shape is not restricted to a box either. Pyramid shapes also work where an Egyptian theme can be applied. Thank you for the video!

[@MIKEDIRT601]

OMG!, I've been looking for ways to make cuff bracelets, ...I WILL figure out ways to use this tech ...SO much easier it seems tnat beating the daylights out of assorted metal, lol... Thanks so much for sharing!

[@danib242]

This is awesome! I have so many ideas I can't wait to execute!