inspired ideas

This fun May Day doorknob vase started out life as a lowly tin can! Recycling at its most beautiful!

Begin by gathering your supplies. You'll need a tin can (preferably opened using a canopener that leaves a smooth edge), a sheet of music or other paper, rub-on transfers or other embellishments, upholstery fringe and trim, Crop-a-dile hole punching tool, assorted ribbons, adhesive (I like to use my Xyron for this project but my second choice would be a glue stick)

Cut your background paper (I used sheet music) to fit the can. If it doesn't wrap around all the way, you can either cut another piece to make up the difference or just leave it to wrap around only the front.

Decorate the paper using rub-on transfers, stickers, or any other collage methods you'd like. Just be sure you'll be able to wrap the finished collage around the can.
Adhere the finished collage to the tin can. I used my Xyron sticker maker but a glue stick will work just fine. Just be sure to apply an even coat to the entire back, applying all the way to the edges.

Using a hot glue gun, apply a length of upholstery trim to the top edge of the can and fringe to the bottom.
Use your trusty Crop-a-dile to punch holes through the tin can and the upholstery trim. Can you believe the Crop-a-dile cuts through a tin can?!
Cut about 18" of 3 or 4 coordinating ribbons. Thread one end through one hole, the other end through the other hole. Tie the loose ends back to make a loop to hold the tin can vase.

Add flowers and a May Day message and surprise your neighbors with this bit of cheer on May 1!

Here's another version of this project...