By, Emily Toy
Do those empty Monster and Red Bull cans pile up in your room? Well, it really bugs me to see all the waste. So, I have found a way to stop the waste cycle and kickstart creativity.
In this guide, I will teach you how to transform ordinary aluminum trash into vibrant, one-of-a-kind "Monster Flowers" perfect for decorating your locker, room, or giving as a gift. It's part DIY craft, part eco-friendly statement. Grab your scissors and hot glue—it's time to learn how a little metal can bring a lot of color to your world.
Several clean aluminum cans (e.g., Monster, Red Bull) in various colors
Medium-sized, sturdy scissors
Permanent marker
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Gloves or safety glasses (Highly Recommended)
Step 1: (Prepare and Flatten the Can)
1) Carefully use your scissors to cut around the top rim of the can until the entire top is removed.
2) Cut straight down the center of the can, from top to bottom.
3) Cut around the bottom rim to remove it.
4) Flatten the can into a sheet of aluminum metal.
Step 2: (Outline the Shapes)
1) On the plain, inner side of the flattened aluminum sheet, use your marker to draw one small circle. This will serve as the center base for your flower.
2) Draw several petal shapes around the remaining can material.
Note: You may need to prepare more cans (Step 1) if you run out of room for petals.
Step 3: (Cut Out Petals and Center)
1) Carefully cut out the center circle and all the drawn petal shapes.
2) Repeat Steps 1 and 2 to create petals in different colors, shapes, and sizes for variety.
Step 4: (Assemble and Glue)
1) Allow your hot glue gun to heat up fully.
2) Begin gluing the petals one by one onto the center circle, overlapping them slightly as you work your way around the base.
3) Once all petals are secured, take an aluminum can pull tab and glue it to the absolute center of the flower to complete the look.
SHARP EDGES WARNING: The freshly cut aluminum edges are very sharp. Handle all pieces with extreme caution and consider wearing durable gloves.
HEAT WARNING: Aluminum is highly conductive. When you apply hot glue, the metal will heat up quickly and can burn your fingers. Use a tool or wear gloves when handling the pieces after gluing.
Noise Alert: Cutting the cans can create a loud, grating sound. Wearing headphones or earbuds is highly recommended.
Design Tip: Before gluing, arrange your cut petals to decide which colors and shapes look best together.
(Some Examples)