Make a Tuna Can Christmas Ornament
Recycled Holiday Ornaments are a Fun Holiday Craft for Kids
Dec 9, 2008
Parents and kids can make their Christmas tree even more green this year by adorning it with ornaments made of things that would be tossed into the trash such as Christmas cards, tuna cans, and jar lids. Gorgeous homemade Christmas ornaments can be crafted from unexpected treasures while parents enjoy a holiday project that decorates the tree and teaches conservation. Kids can consider the project their gift to the environment, but they should prepare to be amazed at just how festive the bunch of recycled stuff will look.
To make a tuna can Christmas ornament, parents and kids will need a few scraps from the craft closet, some garbage salvaged from the kitchen, and several common holiday items easily found around the house this time of year…
- Tuna cans or any small can such as those for olives, sardines, or cooked chicken
- Christmas cards or family photos
- Thick ribbon
- Hammer and nail
- Scraps of yarn or string
- Glitter (optional)
- Lace (optional)
- Miniature ornaments for tiny Christmas trees such as nativity scenes, snowmen, or Santa Clause (optional)
Instructions for Making a Recycled Tuna Can Christmas Ornament for the Tree
- Thoroughly wash out the can with soapy water.
- Parents can use the hammer and nail to punch two holes right beside each other in the side of the tuna can.
- Parents can tie a scrap of yarn or string through the two holes for a hanger.
- Trace the can around a Christmas card or family photo.
- Cut around the traced circle.
- Spread a thin coat of glue on the back of the card or photo and stick it to the inside of the can.
- Parents can help with a hot glue gun to attach ribbon to the outside and inside rim of the can.
- Tiny ornaments can be glued to the inside rim to add depth to the ornament. Parents can let kids pick out an inexpensive pack for a miniature tree including holiday figures such as the characters in a nativity scene, teddy bears, rocking horses, nutcrackers, toy soldiers, snowmen, or Santa and his elves.
- Embellish the ribbon on the outside of the can with glitter or lace.
- Hang the ornaments onto the tree and enjoy.
Similar ornaments can be made from many other recyclable items such as jar lids. Packages of inexpensive ornaments and Christmas cards are easy to find at any dollar store. For more holiday craft ideas, parents and kids can check out instructions for making their own winter snow globes, sock snowmen, and string art Christmas ornaments.
