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.


Check out our “pigeon love” pillow made using our pigeon stencil and black fabric paint. MUJI has awesome quality plain pillows so that was my “canvas” of choice. For symmetrical designs, just apply your stencil on one side of the pillow, wash and dry the stencil, then flip it over and stencil it opposite your first design. Easy!