22 Brilliant DIY Soda Can Ideas You’ll Want to Try Today
If you ve ever wondered what to do with all those empty soda cans after a party or a busy week, you re in the right place. Instead of tossing them out or taking them for spare change, you can turn soda cans into beautiful, functional, and even festive DIY projects.
With just a little creativity, these shiny aluminum cans can be transformed into holiday wreaths, glowing lanterns, garden planters, or even stylish home décor pieces.
This list of 22 DIY soda can ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to start crafting right away. Each idea is budget-friendly, fun to make, and a great way to reduce waste while adding a personal touch to your space.
Whether you re decorating for the holidays, sprucing up your garden, or just looking for a quick weekend craft, you ll find something here that sparks your imagination. Get ready to look at soda cans in a whole new way!
#1 Front Door Wreath
This wreath is such a clever way to reuse soda cans and turn them into something festive. Instead of the usual greenery, the shiny cans give it a bold, industrial look that works perfectly for parties, game days, or even as a quirky holiday decoration.
To make one yourself, start with a wire wreath frame or a sturdy piece of cardboard cut into a circle. Crush or shape the soda cans slightly and attach them securely using hot glue or floral wire.
Keep layering until the entire ring is covered, creating a full and eye-catching design. Hang it on your door with a ribbon or hook, and you ll instantly have a unique piece of décor that sparks conversation. Mix and match different soda brands or colors to add more visual interest.
#2 Red Stars for Christmas Tree Decor
These shimmering red stars made from soda cans are a brilliant way to bring holiday cheer while recycling. The glossy finish of the cans naturally reflects light, making them sparkle beautifully on a Christmas tree.
To create them, carefully cut open a soda can, flatten it, and trace a star template onto the metal. Use strong scissors to cut it out, then fold along the lines to give it that lovely 3D shape.
Punch a small hole at the top, thread a ribbon or hook, and hang it on your tree. The result is a rustic yet shiny ornament that costs nothing but looks absolutely magical.
#3 Patriotic Pop Can Wreath
This colorful soda can wreath is a fun way to show your patriotic spirit while reusing what you already have. By cutting soda cans into star shapes and folding them for a 3D effect, you create eye-catching pieces that sparkle with every angle of light.
Once the stars are ready, simply glue or wire them onto a wreath form, layering different colors like red, silver, and blue for that perfect Americana look.
A bright ribbon at the top completes the design and makes it ready to hang on your door. It s festive, eco-friendly, and sure to grab attention.
#4 Can Lanterns
Turn your empty soda cans into glowing little lanterns that add charm indoors or outdoors.
By carefully cutting vertical slits into the body of the can and gently pressing to create a rounded lantern shape, you give new life to something most people toss away.
A simple wire handle makes them easy to hang on hooks or tree branches, and you can place a tealight or LED candle inside for a safe, flickering glow.
These DIY lanterns are perfect for summer nights on the patio, camping trips, or even holiday decorations. The colorful logos on the cans shine beautifully once lit, giving each lantern its own unique character.
#5 Soda Can Vase
This soda can vase is such a clever way to turn everyday trash into chic décor. By simply removing the top of a can and giving it a fresh coat of spray paint, you instantly transform it into a stylish container for flowers or greenery.
Metallic shades like gold, silver, or copper work beautifully to give it a polished, high-end look that no one would guess started as a soda can.
It s a perfect DIY for quick home decoration, party centerpieces, or even handmade gifts. You can mix and match colors to fit the season, bright pastels for spring, bold red for the holidays, or matte black for a modern touch.
For extra stability, fill the bottom with a few pebbles or marbles before adding your flowers.
#6 Upcycled Coke Can DIY Succulent Planter
This project is a fun and stylish way to give your empty Coke cans a brand-new purpose. By cutting off the tops and filling them with soil, you can turn each can into a mini planter that s perfect for succulents.
The bright red cans add a pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the greens and purples of the plants. To get started, rinse the cans thoroughly, poke a few drainage holes in the bottom, and carefully smooth the edges.
Place your succulents in each can, then group several together on a tray or shallow dish filled with decorative stones. It creates an instant centerpiece that works both indoors and outside.
Choose drought-tolerant succulents like echeveria or jade, since soda cans are small and don t hold much water.
#7 Recycled Cans Into Ashtrays
Here s a clever way to transform old soda cans into small, portable ashtrays. By cutting and folding the can inward, you create a shallow bowl in the center with petal-like edges that give it a decorative look.
It s a budget-friendly option for outdoor smoking areas and also helps keep cigarette butts contained neatly. To make one, cut the top off a soda can, then slice down the sides into strips.
Fold the strips inward and layer them over each other until they form a flower-like edge. The center serves as the ashtray, while the folded aluminum edges make it sturdy and eye-catching.
Always smooth out sharp edges with sandpaper or cover them with heat-resistant tape to make the ashtray safe to handle.
#8 Fairy Idea
Bring a touch of magic to your garden or kids play area by turning soda cans into whimsical fairy houses. In this project, the tops of soda cans are shaped and painted to resemble mushroom caps, giving the whole display a storybook look.
With a little paint, moss, and creativity, you can transform simple materials into a dreamy woodland scene. To make these, cut and shape the cans, then spray-paint them red with white spots for the mushroom tops.
Use cardboard, wood, or even sturdy paper tubes for the stems. Add miniature doors, windows, and moss around the base to complete the fairy-tale vibe. These little houses look enchanting when placed among plants or as a tabletop decoration.
Add LED tea lights inside the mushroom houses to softly glow at night, making the fairy scene even more magical.
#9 Red Neck Wind Chimes
Here s a quirky and fun DIY that shows how soda cans can be turned into playful décor. These âRedneck Wind Chimesâ use empty cans strung up with twine or wire and hung from a simple wooden sign.
Every time the breeze flows, the cans clink together to create a light, metallic jingle that adds character to your porch, patio, or backyard.
To make your own, punch a hole in each can, thread through sturdy string or fishing line, and tie them securely to a piece of wood or a repurposed sign.
You can decorate the wood with paint or stencils to personalize it. The best part is that you don t need perfect cans, dents, and scratches; just make it more charming. Try mixing soda and beer cans of different sizes for a variety of tones when the wind blows.
#10 Christmas Tree Alternatives
If you want a holiday centerpiece that s festive, fun, and eco-friendly, this soda can Christmas tree is a brilliant choice.
Stacked entirely out of red Coca-Cola cans, it mimics the tiered shape of a traditional tree, complete with a shiny star on top. It s eye-catching, creative, and the perfect conversation starter for holiday parties.
To recreate this, you ll need plenty of cans (washed and dried), a sturdy base, and some patience while stacking each layer. Hot glue or double-sided tape can help keep the cans steady, especially if you plan to display it indoors for weeks.
You can even add fairy lights or tinsel to make it sparkle just like a real tree. Try mixing different soda brands with green, silver, or gold cans to give your tree more variety and holiday flair.
#11 Candle Holder Idea
Turn your empty soda cans into cozy little lanterns with this DIY candle holder project. By carefully cutting open the sides of the can, you create windows that let the candlelight shine through, casting a soft and warm glow.
They re simple, rustic, and perfect for mood lighting indoors or as outdoor décor for summer evenings. To make these, just wash and dry your cans, cut out rectangular sections, and place small tealight candles inside.
The aluminum reflects the flame beautifully, giving off more brightness than a regular candle holder. You can even punch decorative patterns into the sides of the cans for a more artistic touch.
#12 Hanging String Light
Give your backyard or man cave a playful twist by turning soda cans into quirky string light covers. This DIY project takes your ordinary string lights and instantly makes them more eye-catching with a fun, recycled touch.
Each can is cut open to fit over the bulbs, creating a festive and unique look that s perfect for parties, barbecues, or even holiday décor.
All you need are empty cans, scissors or a can cutter, and a set of string lights. After washing and drying the cans, carefully cut a hole in the top or bottom, then slide each can over the light bulb.
The aluminum reflects and spreads the glow, making the lights brighter and more decorative. Try using cans of different brands and colors for a playful, eclectic vibe, or stick to one style for a coordinated look.
#13 Soda Can Floor Light
This DIY soda can floor light adds a cozy, glowing effect that can instantly warm up any space. By carefully punching small holes into the sides of a soda can, you can create a lantern-style effect that lets the candlelight shine through in a dotted pattern.
The design can be as simple as random holes or as creative as shapes, words, or outlines. To make it, rinse out an empty can, then fill it with water and freeze it (this keeps the aluminum from bending when you punch holes).
Once frozen solid, use a hammer and nail or a small drill bit to create your chosen design. Place a tealight or small LED light inside, and watch as you can transform into a glowing piece of art.
#14 Coca-Cola Wall
If you ve ever wondered what to do with a massive collection of soda cans, this Coca-Cola wall is an impressive way to upcycle them into an eye-catching structure.
By stacking and securing hundreds of cans together, you can create a decorative partition that doubles as a conversation piece in the garden or backyard. It s not only eco-friendly but also an incredibly unique way to recycle.
To build this, you ll need a sturdy frame or wire mesh to hold the cans in place. Arrange them tightly side by side until you ve filled the entire frame, forming a wall-like effect.
You can choose to keep the original soda branding for a bold, industrial style, or spray-paint the cans for a more subtle and uniform look.
#15 Vertical Garden
This soda can vertical garden is a fantastic way to save space while bringing greenery to your walls. By cutting open empty cans and filling them with soil, you can transform them into small planters perfect for succulents, cacti, or herbs.
Hung on chains or attached to a frame, they create a colorful and eye-catching display that turns recycling into art. To make your own, clean and dry the cans, poke a few drainage holes at the bottom, and paint or decorate them if you d like.
Then, attach them securely with wire, hooks, or chain links to a sturdy wall or trellis. The bright soda can colors add a playful pop, while the plants bring life and freshness to the space.
#16 Valentine’s Day Craft
Turn an empty soda can into a charming Valentine s Day candy bouquet that feels both personal and playful. The bright red can sets the perfect backdrop for chocolates, lollipops, and other sweet treats, making your gift instantly eye-catching.
To create your own, wash and dry the can, then use floral foam or crumpled paper inside to anchor skewers or sticks. Slide your candies onto the sticks, arrange them into a bouquet shape, and tuck in tissue paper for fullness.
A ribbon tied around the can adds the finishing touch, making the whole piece look polished. This project is quick, fun, and sure to bring a smile to anyone s face on Valentine s Day.
#17 Windowsill Garden Idea
Give your windowsill a splash of color by turning tall soda or tea cans into cheerful little planters. Their bright designs add instant personality to your space, while the slim shape makes them perfect for small plants like succulents or herbs.
To make one, rinse out the can and carefully cut the top off with scissors or a can opener. Add a layer of small stones for drainage, then fill with potting soil and tuck in your favorite plant.
Line up several cans side by side to create a fun rainbow display, just like in the photo. This simple project transforms ordinary cans into stylish mini gardens that brighten up your window and your mood.
#18 Recycled Soda Can Lily
These colorful lilies are almost too pretty to believe they re made from soda cans. Each petal is carefully cut, shaped, and painted, giving you blooms that will never wilt.
To create your own, wash and cut open a can, then trim petal shapes with scissors. Use pliers to gently curl the edges, and hot glue them around a small center piece like a bead or button.
Arrange several of them in a pot for a vibrant display that looks just as cheerful indoors as it does outside. It s a wonderful way to turn trash into lasting flowers that brighten your home all year round.
#19 Coca-Cola Lamp
This clever lamp proves that recycling can be both stylish and practical. The soda can serves as the base, while the shade is crafted from dozens of pull tabs linked together, creating a unique pattern of light.
To make your own, start by securing the can onto a sturdy wooden or metal base. Collect plenty of pull tabs and connect them with a thin wire or small metal rings to form the lampshade.
Slip the shade over a small bulb, and watch as it casts playful shadows across the room. It s a one-of-a-kind piece that adds personality and charm to any space.
#20 Easy Pencil Holder
Here s a fun and useful way to turn your empty soda cans into desk organizers. By simply cutting off the tops and smoothing the edges, you can create colorful pencil holders that brighten up your workspace.
Use them for pens, markers, or even small tools you want to keep within reach. You can leave the can as it is for a bold, branded look or spray-paint it for a sleeker finish.
To make it safer, cover the rim with washi tape or hot glue a strip of felt around the edge. This project is quick, practical, and gives your desk a personal, eco-friendly touch.
#21 Mirror on the Wall Recycled Frame
This soda can mirror frame is a clever way to add a pop of color and creativity to any room. By cutting your cans into small squares, you can arrange them into a patchwork mosaic that instantly catches the eye.
It s a fun project that turns ordinary cans into a bold and artsy border for your mirror. Use strong glue to attach the pieces and consider sealing them with a clear coat for extra shine.
You can mix and match colors for a vibrant look or stick to one brand for a more uniform style. Every glance in the mirror will remind you how recycling can also be beautiful.
#22 Coca-Cola Chair
If you ve ever wanted a statement piece that doubles as art, this Coca-Cola chair delivers. It s made entirely of stacked and secured soda cans with a cushioned seat for comfort, creating a bold mix of function and design.
This project shows just how far recycling creativity can go when you let your imagination run wild. To try your own version, build a sturdy wooden or metal frame first, then carefully glue or screw cans around it for stability.
Adding a soft cushion makes it not just an art piece but also a usable chair. Place it in a game room, man cave, or studio to spark conversations every time guests walk in.