• Use basic craft supplies to transform a paint cancraft a card! image by Shirley Hirst from Fotolia.com
  
  Altered paint cans are appropriate for crafting and giving. Not only is the finished project a piece of art--it can be useful by holding other items as well. Use an altered paint can to give a gift, preserve memories, or light up your front porch or walkway. Clean, empty metal paint cans and clear plastic paint cans are available at the craft store. You may be able to save money by purchasing empty metal paint cans at the home improvement store instead.
  
  

Altered Paint Can Scrapbook

• You can make a uniquely interesting scrapbook by altering a paint can. Using a paint can allows you to include dimensional items that wouldn't otherwise fit in a regular scrapbook. Coat the outside of the can with high-gloss spray paint in a color that matches the papers you want to use. Decorate the outside of the can with scrapbook stickers and embellishments. Decorate a mini scrapbook for inside the can, and add items to the can. If you are making a baby scrapbook, you could include baby's first shoes, a lock of hair, a plaster impression of a hand or footprint and mementos from the hospital. Place all items in the decorated can and add the lid to keep these precious items safe.
  
  

Rainy Day Craft Kit

• Decorate the outside of a paint can with stickers and paint markers. Use paint markers to write : "Rainy Day Craft Kit" on the front or on the lid. Fill the can with craft supplies like pompoms, pipe cleaners, stickers, crayons, glue, paper scraps, feathers and glitter. Break out the can on dreary days when it is too cold or rainy to go outside, and use to make fun craft projects. Refill the can as needed when you shop at the craft store, dollar store or big-box store.
  
  

Gift Box

• Make a paint can into a useful gift box for a special person. The box itself can be used to store items long after the birthday or even has passed. Paint the can using metal paint or spray paint. Decorate with themed rub-on decals or stickers from the craft store. Choose embellishments that match the occasion. Place your gift inside and top with the lid for giving.
  
  

Cookie Kit

• Print out a cookie recipe onto pretty paper and gather all of the non-perishable ingredients. Combine the flour, baking soda and other dry ingredients in a glass mason jar and place inside a clear paint can. Pour chocolate chips, candies and other add-ins into decorative plastic bags and add to the can. Add a few packets of hot chocolate or instant coffee to the bucket. Use clear packing tape to attach the recipe to the front of the can. Place the lid on the can and tie with a bow for giving.
  
  

Luminaria

• Fill a metal paint can with water and freeze. Turn the can on its side and use a hammer and nails to put holes in the can. You can make holes all over or in a simple pattern like a star or circle--just trace or draw the shape you want with a pencil, then make holes. Holes should be at least 1/2 inch apart. When you are happy with the design, let the ice melt. To use, place outside and add a votive candle.