can tabs
Can tabs are the small aluminum tabs on top of soda cans.
They can easy be removed from cans by bending them back and forth until the aluminum gives and the tab detaches.
They can easy be removed from cans by bending them back and forth until the aluminum gives and the tab detaches.
Can tabs can be collected over time at zero cost, besides the cost of the drink itself. Other materials may be necessary, such as ribbon, hot glue, wire, or necklace chains to complete a craft.
Earrings and Necklaces
Their natural shine makes can tabs great pieces for jewelry like earrings and necklaces. The two holes in the can offer opportunities for attaching other items or weaving together multiple tabs. Necklaces and rings can also be made similarly.
Homemade pendant and earrings using tabs by Ann Made. Here, other materials were added to enhance the look of the earrings and add a more personal and colorful touch.
Weaving Can Tabs
The two holes in the tabs can be utilized to weave multiple tabs together into chains and sheets. The simplest design would be a brace or belt.
Bracelet made by myself, 20 can tabs
For designs meant to be worn, such as a bracelet, I recommend weaving together two layers, so the smooth side is facing up for both sides of the bracelet or belt. This way, the rough bottom side of the tab does not rub up against and irritate skin.
More extensive pieces can also be made. Multiple rows of can tabs can be woven together to create thicker bracelets or belts. Many more rows can create an entire surface. This can be used to make wallets, purses and even clothing
More extensive pieces can also be made. Multiple rows of can tabs can be woven together to create thicker bracelets or belts. Many more rows can create an entire surface. This can be used to make wallets, purses and even clothing
Large items may require thousands of can tabs. Aluminum can tabs can be bought online. See Links page for more information.
Can tabs in scultures
Accessories aren't the only things you can make with can tabs. The aluminum is a very malleable metal and therefore easy to cut and bend, making can tabs a very usable material for sculpture.
My dragon 2-D sculpture is Game of Thrones fan art made out of about 150 Budweiser can tabs.
I made a dream catcher with thread and a metal hoop to serve as backing for the piece. Then, I cut and hot-glued the can tabs to the dream catcher. The flatness of the piece and holes in the dream catcher make it very easy to hang as a decoration.
I made a dream catcher with thread and a metal hoop to serve as backing for the piece. Then, I cut and hot-glued the can tabs to the dream catcher. The flatness of the piece and holes in the dream catcher make it very easy to hang as a decoration.