How to Make REALISTIC Miniature Metal Trash Cans & Garbage Bags for Dioramas

DIY how to make miniature metal trash cans and garbage bags for dioramas, action figures, scale models, dollhouses, model railroad scenery, and wargaming terrain.
PATREON: / smolworldworkshop
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In this tutorial, I show you how to make miniature garbage bags using real garbage bags! I cut the bags into small strips along the seam. Then, I use a flat iron to weld two other sides together by simply clamping the bag between the iron. Now with 3 seams closed, I fold the bag inside out, and then fill them with sand. Then I twist the bag shut at the top, and seal it again with the flat iron. The end result is a perfect miniature garbage bag which would be great for any diorama, action figure display, dollhouse accessory, wargaming terrain, model railroad scenery, etc.
The metal trash cans were printed on my Elegoo Saturn S Resin 3D Printer. I designed the 3D models in Fusion 360 and sliced them in Chitubox. In this video, I show you how I remove the resin 3D printed supports from the delicate parts using an X-Acto knife. After some light sanding, I show you how I airbrush them using Tamiya Semi Gloss Black Paint as a basecoat. Once the black base coat has dried, I create a realistic metal finish by spraying Alclad Chrome paint on top. After the paint has dried, I quickly weather them with brown acrylic paint.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:11 How to make miniature garbage bags
2:20 Miniature Trash Can STL File for 3D printing
2:32 Removing supports from resin 3D prints
3:46 How to assemble mini trash cans
4:25 How to paint a realistic metal finish for scale models
5:01 How to weather mini metal trash cans
5:20 Final Result!
6:05 Please Support Me on Patreon!
Music:
"Music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio"
/ @whitebataudio
Song List:
1. Home
2. Distance

[@johnarmenta2199]

I do appreciate 3-D printed mini scatter, but I am more impressed by a hand-made piece. Of course you want to use every tool you have, so good on you for doing so, but I am actually more impressed with your garbage bags than your garbage cans only because the bags were done by hand. Keep crafting, man! Much good work here.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!! I really enjoyed making the garbage bags because they’re super simple to make but look effective!

[@patrikhjorth3291]

I kind of agree, and I think it would be possible to make the cans out of thin sheets of metal... but at the same time, the 3D printing allows you to focus on other aspects of the building, and making a _good_ 3D printed asset is an art in itself, just different.

[@smolworldworkshop]

@@patrikhjorth3291 Thank you for this comment, you summed it up perfectly! Really appreciate that! And thanks for watching :)

[@LaughingInTiny]

I agree. I think the mini world needs some sort of short code for titles so you know when something is 3d printed. I know there are a lot of people interested, but I'm not. I find it super frustrating clicking on content only to find that it's 3Dp. (< see what I did there?)

[@bellagabriella1]

I agree with you 100%! Not everyone has that kind of money for a 3-D printer.

[@brockmitchell3989]

Your paint choice was perfect. It gave the cans that galvanized metal look like real trash cans.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!! Glad you liked the way they turned out!

[@IronMessenger]

Your bag trick could also work well to make scale body bags for a bit of post-apocalyptic action! Very real looking models, thanks for the idea!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Yes that would definitely work, great idea! And thanks for watching!

[@rerun3283]

😂 this guy definitely has a bunker in his house. 🤘 I love the idea.

[@neilhfrancis1334]

Might be an idea to add dents to the lids and dustbin sides. Maybe even crudely painted house numbers indicating who’s bins they are?

[@smolworldworkshop]

Those are great ideas for adding some nice realism!! Thanks for sharing!

[@PreventerMkII]

​@smolworldworkshop I just finished watching the video, and listening to your explanation as to why you cut the supports had me say aloud, "that was the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the design and naturally dent some cans!" Be a little more rough with the fresh prints. I think we all will be pleased with the results 😊

[@smolworldworkshop]

@@PreventerMkII that’s a good point, I’ll be sure to keep that in mind next time! Thanks for watching!

[@kennyk4134]

When gluing on the bin handles, put one handle up and one down as thats the way you find them as people drag them back with 9ne hand after emptying.

[@smolworldworkshop]

That’s a great detail! I’ll keep that in mind next time, thanks for watching!

[@pkmnmastertash]

The use of sand to get the bags to sit naturally is genius!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!!

[@jenpink4298]

💯💯💯 So simple and so effective!

[@smolworldworkshop]

@@jenpink4298 thank you :)

[@guywillis1281]

I had never made anything before in my life, thenade 3 garbage cans using these methods. However, when it came time to glue them, i realized i ran out of brushable glue so set mine aside. While tidying up teh house that same everning, i grabbed a roll of scotch tape and the light bulb in my head just went on. Iw as actually surprised how easy it was to wpply and you cannot tell theres tape on them. Love these tutorials, thanks for all you do for novices like me.

[@DRMELON-dc9nj]

Sick cans and bags btw, i remember making a lil bag with real bag and some tape that can be used to store stuff.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you and that’s awesome!!

[@MonsterHobbiesModelCarGarage]

That's a real Oscar The Grouch style garbage can there! :D Looks great and thank you for the tips!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you! I’m glad you liked the video!

[@MonsterHobbiesModelCarGarage]

@@smolworldworkshop You are welcome!

[@donivanpotter2762]

You know it's kind of funny. The little trashcan has actual waste in it when printed; The breakaway build support material. The trash and cans Look really cool and realistic.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Haha sometimes it takes trash to make trash cans I guess! Glad you like them and thanks for watching!

[@fredericapanon207]

True. Spray paint the plastic bit in grey for steel scrap or brown tones for wood scraps for the garbage can.

[@Kelly-fk3oi]

You have a big heart when it comes to miniatures!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you! I’ve been making miniatures since I was a kid and I absolutely love building!

[@ronstewart9792]

That is so cool. Thanks. Ron

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank for watching Ron :)

[@franklawrence1232]

i really want to see you make something like a 7-11 urban/city diorama. it would be more intricate than old fashioned style dioramas so you could make separate videos for all the small parts and pieces. you basically already started this with the magazine shelves, AC units, mini bottles, pallets, concrete, and ofc this video as well.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Well you’ve seemed to put together my plan!! That’s honestly the project that I want to make the most! Since 2020 I’ve had plans to build a huge diorama of Hong Kong. I’ve drawn cad files of all the buildings, the only issue is I don’t have access to a laser cutter anymore. The buildings are going to be huge and I don’t want to make them by hand out of weaker materials. So that’s my main setback, and in the meantime I’ve been making all the small details, and saving a collection of model car kits. Im not sure when I’ll get to build it honestly, but until I can afford to buy a laser or have access to one again I’ll be doing these small details, as well as some other smaller dioramas! Thanks for watching!

[@franklawrence1232]

@@smolworldworkshop That's awesome but don't sweat however long it takes to find a laser cutter. I enjoy watching all the small details in the meantime, they make me nostalgic for working nights at 7-11. You're the only miniature channel I'm subbed to because your commentary is done like a tutorial instead of trying to be just another 'generic relaxing background noise' type of deal. I'm always paying full attention through the whole video. I'm loving the content, and shocked by how young your channel is. It's really making me want to try creating my own miniatures, thanks for the inspiration. P.S. If I had to recommend any detail it would be a lottery machine/scratch off display.

[@smolworldworkshop]

@@franklawrence1232 wow that makes me super happy to hear! I’m so glad that the commentary is helpful, and that you enjoy the small details! The lottery machine/display sounds like a great idea too! I think you should try making miniatures if you’re interested, it’s definitely a fun hobby. Thanks again for all the support!

[@franklawrence1232]

Np, God Bless!

[@Derek_Read]

Very nice can model and final painted results. The main part of the can would be 100% printable with zero support without the lid in place. The lid is the only portion that needs supports in this model, so printing it separately from the can (supported by itself) would save a large amount of support material and would also save a bit of printing time.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!! And you’re totally right about the orientation! The reason why I didn’t print it unsupported directly on the build plate was because I was certain I’d destroy it trying to remove it without a raft. I’d maybe try that if I get a flex plate though! Thanks again for watching!

[@spray_cheese]

@@smolworldworkshopdefinitely recommend a flex bed. But you might have been able to get away with a small raft or even skirt with this small of a print. Which would be easy to remove(can be, I suppose😂) Love the project btw, wish a couple bags fit in the bin but if I were to do it myself, I could make that happen😂👍

[@Dnyce261]

Very cool. These would be perfect to go along with the AMT Garland garbage truck kit.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you! And that sounds awesome, thanks for watching!

[@damp_dog]

I always wondered how these were done. Time to see if I can make them for 28mm scale. 😂 great vid, thank you.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you, and good luck with your project!

[@ericm3780]

I think i will try the trash bags because I have everything I need here in the house

[@smolworldworkshop]

That’s awesome, have fun giving them a try, and thanks for watching!

[@Pauley_in_GP]

Great job! 👍

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!!!

[@enzoroma14]

Very interesting! thanks for sharing 😉👍🏻

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you I’m glad you enjoyed the video:D

[@slugnaholowaa7406]

Hilarious. Great work.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!

[@goforitpainting]

Relly cool technique.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!

[@philRminiatures]

Impressive ideas, looks so real...👍👍

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!!! Glad you the the video!

[@williamcox6043]

Awesome work! I Really like your painting technique on the garbage cans - Superb!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!! I’m glad you liked the video!

[@edhorst7212]

As mentioned about dents in those garbage cans, imagine using a lighter or grill lighter to add heat while bending or pushing sides for damage.. Great use of plastic for garbage bags along with sand for better base..

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you! And yes next time I print some more cans I’ll try and add some nice dents!

[@jeannegem6253]

🫶🏻🌹Merci beaucoup !!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you for watching :D

[@marccxxshammer6643]

Great 👍🏼

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!!!

[@spinafire]

Simple and very effective! I'm enjoying all of the little features you make videos on. Do you take requests or just do random items/textures you get ideas for?

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you, I’m glad to hear you’re liking the details! Not always but I usually base my shorter videos off of a technique or detail for a larger project I’m working on. But yes sometimes it’s just random too!

[@mcemtpockets1775]

Wow❤😊

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!

[@mattharvey8712]

Bravo.....love the works.........I have not seen metal trash can for long time..........cheers

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!! I’m glad you like the trash cans, thanks for watching!

[@johnchase7667]

I would have really enjoyed watching you make the 3d model file in whatever software you use.

[@smolworldworkshop]

I use Fusion 360 to model the 3D prints! Maybe I’ll include a Timelapse of me making 3D models in some future videos!

[@mrtrek2117]

Great vid, can totally use some of these techniques on my Starship Enterprise interior build. Thanks!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thanks for watching! And good luck with your project, that sounds awesome!!

[@franck.chataignier]

Très réaliste !

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!

[@6daysago167]

That would make awesome candy back in the 90’s.. open a can and tear open the bag to get your trash shaped gum or candy

[@smolworldworkshop]

Haha that would be so cool!!

[@TNBushcrafter]

They did have garbage pail kids candy to promote the cards back in the day that came in garbage cans.

[@tjmisiolek6181]

Outstanding! Wow!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!!

[@jonathanryals9934]

Here is a good way to seam small plastic sheets: place the sheets inside of a large book with the edges you want to seal barely sticking out. Then, use a flame on the exposed edge.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Good idea, thanks for sharing!!!

[@nismojukerich2994]

Til you catch the book on fire 😂

[@spaguettoltd.7933]

Those garbage bags are nuts

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!!

[@KitbashedKustoms]

Great neat little trix in this video. Thank you

[@smolworldworkshop]

Glad you liked the video, thanks for watching!

[@newtybot]

As a warhammer player this will not benefit me in the slightest but is perhaps the most important video I’ve seen.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Haha thanks for watching:)

[@themorningstar3254]

Just what I wanted. My wife to nag me about taking out the model trash too!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Haha that’s a good one, thanks for watching!!

[@LordRusty5]

May I ask ... what is the scale of these cans? They look to be about 1/9th Scale ... but I'm not sure. Great job, and thanks!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!! These are in 1/24 scale, the cans are roughly 1.125 inches tall, maybe slightly taller. Hope this helps!

[@natazer]

Oscar the grouch endorses this video.

[@Styzer.]

okay, this is awesome bro

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!!!

[@bradcraig6676]

Very convincing minis! If you print more cans, I suggest putting a serious dent in a garbage can or two, seems to me you rarely see one in unmangled condition.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!!! And that’s a great idea, I didn’t even think of that. Thanks for sharing that with me!!

[@bradcraig6676]

@@smolworldworkshop Sure! Your channel is great and I look forward to much more.

[@Michael._The_Storyteller]

nice work dude, good show.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much!!

[@smallscenesh0]

Nice! I subscribed your Channel!😉

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you so much I really appreciate the support!!

[@Glitch-Gremlin]

What did you model the trashcan in?

[@smolworldworkshop]

I used Fusion 360! Hope this helps!

[@vernonzehr]

I don't have a 3d printer yet but have watched a bazillion videos and instructions about supports and model position for best prints. I am wondering why you didn't print the can with the base on the bottom? You wouldn't need supports at all right? If they base is against the printer plate and prints up there would be no need for supports? I am confused why you needed so much support except if you printed upside down with the bottom of the can at the top.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Hi there, yes theoretically you could print pieces straight on the build plate. But these prices are extremely fragile, and I think you’ll find that you’ll break more prints removing them if they’re directly on the build plate. I always print with a raft which gives an easy edge to remove the print from the build plate. You may be wondering why I don’t have a flex plate in that case. For most average prints, that should solve all th problems as bending the plate causes the prints to pop off. But again, with prints that are super thin and not post cured yet, they are still very flexible meaning the plate will need to be bent a lot to remove them, which will make the prints warp and distort. Also, I printed the can upside down because that way there will be no visible support marks that way from the outside, only inside the can. Hope this helps!

[@probotprobert]

This is cool but are the 3D files available? Thanks

[@smolworldworkshop]

Yes! You can download all the files on my patreon at the Gold $5 tier! The link in’s in the video description

[@user-mu8ov5yn8m]

Зварювати мішки можна і паяльником через фольгу.

[@chrisst8922]

Top Cat is looking for a new home.

[@jameswest411]

What scale are the trash cans?

[@smolworldworkshop]

These are 1/24 scale, roughly 1.125 ish inches tall! Hope this helps and thanks for watching:)

[@JoeKyser]

Where do you live? Our trash cans are plastic here. Even in the 80s when we used metal they didnt even look like that

[@joaoneves6053]

Hi, Why did you print the Trash Can upside down? it would have no need for suports printed upright

[@smolworldworkshop]

Hi there, I printed it upside down supported because I printed it directly in the build plate, I would have broken it trying to remove it. If I had a flex plate, then I’m sure it would’ve been fine!

[@Nubbe999]

Looks nice. But maybe the trash cans would look even better if they had some dents and where not perfectly new.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you, and yes I agree that dents would add some nice realism!

[@ThisZombieBitesEverything]

How would I make the trash bins without a 3D printer? Not to take away from the video… but anyone with a 3D printer can add the files and hit print.

[@smolworldworkshop]

I get your point but it takes skill to create 3D files and I’d say it’s more than just hitting print. Lots of trial and error pushing boundaries on what is physically printable, balancing between detail and scale, how thin you can print certain parts, proper support placement etc. 3D printing is just as skillful as making model kits, even more so if you design the files yourself You could try making them from thick gauge aluminum foil, but you’ll spend your whole day embossing the texture with a toothpick if you need multiple cans.

[@ThisZombieBitesEverything]

@@smolworldworkshop see.. that right there, that’s good information. Talk more about how it would and could be done if one didn’t have a 3D printer as you make it(just an idea, to be fair you may of already done that, honestly I am behind on your videos). I am aware the files are hard to make, to get it right. I wasn’t trying to say it’s easy… was just highlighting that I could use you file you have on offer, or others out there. In my spare time I make things by melting metals. I have to make my own molds so I get how hard it is. Do you have a video I can watch that shows how to make things with the least amount of tools/software? Something a 3year old could make for example. My grandkids would love that.

[@smolworldworkshop]

@@ThisZombieBitesEverything yeah that’s a good point, if I have time in the video, I’ll try and verbally mention how to build without a printer. I do have an old cabin diorama where I show how to build a basswood cabin from scratch with basic hand tools. The furniture is 3D printed but it’s honestly such a small part of the video. I show how to make a frame, add siding, make shingles, a tin roof from styrene all by hand if you’re interested

[@ThisZombieBitesEverything]

@@smolworldworkshop thank you, I will check it up. And thank you for hearing me out. Not a lot of people take the time to do that… so thank you again PS, I understand it maybe time consuming, but if possible, I would love to play the guessing game… I would love to see if I or anyone could tell what’s 3D printed and what’s not? Something tells me my grandson will win and I would still be guessing 😂

[@DRMELON-dc9nj]

I wish i had an 3d printer :(

[@smolworldworkshop]

I know how you feel, it took a lot of thinking it over before I finally purchased a printer. And I know there are lots of things to think about like cost, print size fumes, etc. But whenever you are able to purchase one I think you’ll really enjoy it! Also thanks for watching!

[@TheCombatartist]

What scale is this?

[@smolworldworkshop]

These are in 1/24 scale!

[@pigmentpeddler5811]

IM THE TRASH MAN

[@chauffeurmarco]

I hesitate to get a 3D Printer. I don't know what kind of things we can do and what we can't do with that. I am affraid to fucked up.

[@smolworldworkshop]

That’s totally understandable! I bought my first printer 3 years ago with only some basic knowledge about 3D printing and making files. You definitely will make mistakes and have failed prints, but just like learning anything new, it’s a part of the process. In regards to safety working with resin, I think it’s very important to extract the fumes outside and work in a well ventilated area. I keep my printer enclosed in a vivosun tent, and extract the fumes out the window with a fan. Always wear gloves, eye protection, and a respirator when washing, away resin and sanding resin. In all if you take safety seriously, you should have nothing to be worried about! There’s lots of videos on every 3D printer on the market, so just do some basic research and go for it! You’ll learn so much!

[@jasonwaltrowski2315]

Don't forget to chop up some supports into small pieces and paint them brownish white and place them all over the trash bags as maggots for that trailer park look🤣🤣🤣🤣. I'm just kidding about the trailer park, the only reason I thought of that was because last week I had maggots in my trash, nasty😂

[@smolworldworkshop]

Hahaha that would definitely add lots of gross, fine detail! Thanks for watching :)

[@jayerjavec]

Of course, 3D printed. Well, thanks, but does this help those without the printer? No.

[@fredericapanon207]

Thinking of some of the stuff that Luke Towan did, how about creating a mold in polymer clay and using that to shape a heavier foil around it? Luke did something similar to create corrugated metal sheets for rooves.

[@MrEnglishford]

no sound

[@Neg319]

How to make miniature trash cans: Download a file and print them.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Maybe you should buy a 3D printer! It would open your mind up on how to think differently about creating!

[@Neg319]

The machine is doing all the creating. Not knocking it, the result is great, but I thought you were going to teach us something.@@smolworldworkshop

[@smolworldworkshop]

@@Neg319 fair enough! But all the files take proper designing! I’d say that 3D printing is just as skillful as assembling a model kit! The only difference is you have the ability to design your own model kit! Thanks for watching!

[@DieTabbi]

😢 I don‘t own an iron nor a 3d printer.

[@andipower8163]

The channel is great but i don’t like the background music, it’s too high energy

[@notreallydavid]

To make a bag, first take a bag...

[@rerun3283]

What is this? A trash can for ants?! It has to be at least three times this size.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Haha thanks for watching :)

[@rerun3283]

​@@smolworldworkshopthanks for the good ideas!

[@nullstudios2989]

You lost me at “3D printed”.

[@MisterBumFluff]

Not really DIY when you 3d printed them

[@rickytate9515]

😂😂😂 making dime bags huh

[@princeofcupspoc9073]

And here's the 3D model to print..... Seriously? Um, I think you can make a million videos with the same premise. Jeez. How about copper sheet and a good metal bender? Nope. Just print it. DONE!

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thanks for watching :)

[@trevorkuenzi3579]

Well if you tune in to the channel you can learn how to make metal shingles without using a 3d printer, it is on the channel, if not, then you can just piss off

[@benfubbs2432]

3d printing isn't "making" something. If I see a video titled "how to paint a basket of fruit" and the opening lines are "you'll just need a color printer for this" then it's not a video on how to paint. I am sure you can see where this analogy is going.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Fair enough but 3D printing very much is making something. Lots of work goes into designing the files, supporting the correct orientation, cleaning and sanding for painting, etc. I don’t understand why there’s some stigma against 3D printing as “cheating” in the modeling community, when you can say, how to make a 1/24 scale Toyota Supra, and it’s build from a pre molded kit. Nothing about it is scratch built, but it’s still called “making”. If anything, 3D printing is more skillful than building a kit, because you have to design the kit you are printing. I think you can see my analogy too.

[@harryscratch212]

If you hadn’t begun your video with the absolutely pointless statement “What’s up everyone” I would have continued to watch but stopped immediately instead. What on earth is such a stupid statement meant to mean???

[@vivianphillips768]

I don’t know, hairy scratch, it’s a mystery to me! Why would he talk the way he wants to talk, in a video he created, on his own channel? In a way you wouldn’t prefer him to?? It’s like he didn’t think to run it by you at all, Hairy Scratch. How could he forget!? His audacity is unnerving!!!! I am with you!!!! 😡😡😡😡😡

[@ImaSMACKHEAD982]

So you didnt make the trash can it was 3D printed 💀

[@MVeminor7]

Always something interesting! Great stuff. Mikey V.

[@smolworldworkshop]

Thank you!! I’m glad you’re liking the new content :D