From Soup Can to Showpiece: A Decoupage Makeover
Have you ever looked at an empty soup can and thought—what could this become? You’re not alone! Crafters everywhere are finding joy in turning everyday items into beautiful, functional art. Today’s project is a perfect example: transforming a simple tin can into an elegant storage piece using rice paper, paint, clay, and gilded accents.
This creative tutorial comes from our talented affiliate, Donna at Mason Creations etc. She’s known for taking ordinary materials and turning them into something you’d be proud to display in your home. Whether you’re new to decoupage or have a few projects under your belt, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process. Be sure to watch her full video below!
🖌 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Can
If your tin can is glossy, begin by brushing on a coat of Polyvine Multi Surface Lacquer in Dead Flat finish. It removes the shine and gives your paint and decoupage glue something to grip onto. Let this cure overnight for best results.
Step 2: Apply a White Base Coat
Paint the outside of your can and lid using Dixie Belle Chalk Paint in Cotton. Donna uses a sponge for smooth coverage and a brush for tight spots. Let it dry completely.
Step 3: Add Your Rice Paper
Trim and tear your rice paper to fit the can. For cleaner blending, use a water brush to tear one edge. Adhere it using Polyvine Decorators Varnish, pressing the paper into the can's grooves. Also apply rice paper to the underside of the lid for a finished look.
Step 4: Sand the Edges
Once dry, use medium-grit sandpaper to remove excess rice paper from the bottom edge of the can. This technique gives you a cleaner finish than scissors.
Step 5: Add Protective Varnish
Seal the painted and decoupaged surface with a coat of Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish in Satin. This adds durability, a gentle sheen, and makes the surface easier to clean or antique later.
Step 6: Create Clay Embellishments
Using Das air dry clay and the Stamperia Old Lace Butterfly & Flowers mold, press in the clay, smooth the back, and freeze for 20 minutes. This makes removal easier and preserves detail.
Step 7: Attach Moist Clay to the Can
Once softened slightly, glue the damp clay pieces onto the can using tacky glue. If they slide due to the round surface, use painter’s tape to hold them until dry. Let them dry overnight.
Step 8: Paint the Details
Once dry, paint your embellishments using Pentart Paints in colors like Rose, Metallic Gold, and Country Green. Donna uses both brushes and sponge daubers depending on the area.
Step 9: Add a Finial Handle
Insert a wooden finial into the top of the lid and glue it once dry. This gives your container a charming, functional touch.
Step 10: Antique the Piece
Mix glazing medium with green paints and brush it over the entire piece. Wipe off the surface quickly, leaving the mixture in the crevices to highlight texture and deepen details. Repeat this for the can and lid.
Step 11: Dry Brush White for Softness
Lightly drag a nearly dry brush of white paint across the high points to soften the overall look and balance the rich colors.
Step 12: Final Protective Coats
Apply two more coats of Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish in Satin. Allow an hour between coats and after the final coat.
Step 13: Add Gold Highlights
Using Decor Wax in Eternal, highlight raised edges with a light hand and a small brush. This brings out the design beautifully and gives a gilded finish.
Step 14: Finish with Decorative Trim
Glue bronze ball chain inside the lid to conceal any edges and match your gold theme. Add a final touch of gold wax to the chain and buff for shine.
What could you use this lovely upcycled can for? Loose tea, cotton balls, wrapped candies—it’s versatile and gorgeous.
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🎥 Thank you to Donna at Mason Creations etc. for your wonderful instruction and creativity. You make crafting approachable and fun for everyone!