I sort of have a tin can obsession. I think they are a beautifully designed object. And as a container, there are so many re-uses for them. I especially like to paint them to give them some newness.

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I used a basic paintbrush and various colors of Folk Art new Multi-surface paints for these cans. Two coats did the trick. Final use for them?

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An urban herb garden for my window sill!  Of course you can use them as pencil holders, vases, and more. What would you do with some colorful painted tin cans?

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To make this herb garden you’ll need 4-6 clean tin cans, paint, paint brushes, soil and a variety of herb plants or seeds. Once you are finished decorating your cans replant different herbs (or seeds) into the tin cans. Have some fun incorporating the name of your herbs into your design! An optional step to make your herb garden last a little longer is to punch a few wholes at the bottom of the cans and add some pebbles before you add the soil. This will allow some water to drain out. If you follow this step, consider placing your garden on a small tray to catch the water.


Do It Yourself, Winter 2010

Do It Yourself, Winter 2010 featuring Stencil1

It’s always nice to get press but it’s really great when you get to be in such a well put together DIY magazine like Do It Yourself by Better Homes & Gardens. The Winter 2010 issue is out now and the editors have packed this issue with some very impressive and affordable home-makeovers. See that back wall in the cover image? That’s one of the 10 stencil patterns  from Stencil 101 Decor. I counted 7 pages in which Stencil1 stenciled items appear so check it out to see stenciled tables, walls, and artwork!