Project designed by Linda Ragsdale.
Materials:
large or small soda can
scissors-regular and decoupage size
metal paint in red, orange and brown
nail file
crayon or face paint crayon
lobster, turtle or other animal patterns - look for patterns in coloring books or draw your own
Steps:
- Cut off the top of the can: puncture the can at the top with the bottom blade of open scissors or an awl. Turn scissors so the top blade cuts perpendicular to can. Cut the top away from the can. To make a flat sheet, cut down side of can, round corner and cut off the bottom. Cutting may create some tough burrs, which can be cut or filed away using a paperboard fingernail file. Cut enough cans for the project, and some extra for experimentation.
- Make a pattern by wrapping a piece of paper around the can. Lay paper on a flat surface, then draw a character on it. Tape pattern to the can. Use your hand, a length of PVC tube or a paper tube to put pressure on the can without bending it, then trace over the lines of the pattern design using a pen or stylus. Cut out the pattern with regular or decorative-edge scissors. To create a freehand design, use a face paint crayon or regular crayon to draw pattern onto the tin then rub it off prior to painting. Tracing the pattern will make indentions in the tin.
- Cut the can into sections and cut away excess, working inward to cut the details. For large bends or joints, cut into the joint from both sides to prevent tearing. If the can should tear, trim away the tear once you have the final shape. Use a nail file to file off rough spots. Shape the lobster claws and legs with your hands.
- Using a large paintbrush, pounce orange paint over the entire outside of lobster. Dab on red and brown paint over the orange paint to create highlights and contrasts. Paint the outside of the can. Use a small piece of honeycomb to place a candle if desired.
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