There are two types of coffee cans: aluminum cans and plastic containers. For the most part, either style can be used for any of these projects, although you do need to remember that the metal cans will rust if exposed to water. Whichever coffee can style you use, be sure to keep the lid! You will find it comes in handy for almost all of these frugal DIY projects. Cover the outside of a coffee can with wrapping paper or a bright coat of spray paint. You can also print out inkjet photos and colorful patterns and create a custom collage. Mod Podge is an excellent adhesive and can be used as a top coat to protect your creation. Once your can is decorated, drop the gift inside, pop the lid on, and you’re done! Don’t forget to add used coffee grounds to your compost because they’re a good source of nitrogen. Stick an empty coffee can on your kitchen counter and use it to hold your kitchen scraps in between trips to the compost pile. The lid will help contain odors and prevent fruit fly attacks. Cleaning the fridge? Fill the coffee container with soapy water, and you have a compact bucket by your side. Washing the car, spot cleaning laundry, rinsing paintbrushes. The utilitarian uses are endless! Painting some trim or furniture? Fill the container with just enough paint to do the job and enjoy the ease of holding your new “paint bucket” by the easy grip handle. It’s lighter weight and can be sealed up in between coats. The lids are not tight enough to store paint for a long time. It’s best to return unused paint to the original can for long-term storage.
