Project Planner: Altered Tins
How to Create a Treasure - Easy Craft Project With Tin Containers
Rather than throwing tin objects and containers away, why not alter them? Seasoned mixed media artists have been doing this for years. Let's bring in the novices.
Creating shrines, treasure boxes, trinket holders, gift boxes, and travel containers are just a few of the projects seasoned mixed media artists have been creating through use of tins. These tins do not have to be the large kind cookies come in, but rather the smaller kind you typically find hard candy in. Because tins are so versatile in style, shape, and size, there are a lot of opportunities for creative adventures.
- Prepare the tin - Sand the piece down a bit to give it some tooth.
- Priming - Using spray primer, spray the entire piece down. Do not forget to spray the inside of the tin, as well as under the cover, if you intend to alter those areas. Dry the tin for at least 24 hours.
- Painting - Using acrylic paint, paint the tin any way you would like. Some mixed-media artists have implemented chalkboard paint successfully in these altered tin projects.
- Embellish the tin - Depending on the theme you are after, embellish the tin using hot glue as the adhesive. The hot glue will work better for attaching weightier items, such as gems and game pieces, to the piece. Do not forget to embellish the inside of the tin and under the tin’s cover as well.
- Sealing and protecting - If there are a lot of items added to the tin, consider adding a layer of decoupage medium over the top of the entire piece. This type of glazing will allow for an extra bond for the embellishments, as well as giving the piece an added sheen (if you choose glossy medium). The piece will be sticky, so do it in thin layers until the entire piece is sealed and sturdy.
- Drying and adding - Be sure to allow the piece to dry completely, for at least 24 hours, before placing loose items into the tin. If you intend to use this as a gift box, you may want to allow for extra drying time just to be on the safe side.
As you can see, altering a tin does not have to be an intimidating project. There are paints and adhesives specifically developed for working with metal. If you plan to work directly on the metal, rather than sanding and spraying it with primer, visit your local craft store and speak to a customer service representative about what products will work best for the project you intend to complete. There is also room for experimentation when it comes to these projects, so do not be afraid to try different things out (like covering it over with a paper collage, or fabric).
