If you are looking for a FUN, upcycling craft project then we have one that your tween (& adults) will love! This DIY windsock project uses only a few materials that you may already have on hand.
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Today, we will share with you how this empty tin can was transformed into a windsock.
For some art projects it is easier for me to do the project first and then show my kids the tutorial. This happened to be one of those projects since I hadn’t tried making one before. It was such a fun project even for grown-ups!
Now my daughter has this pretty piece hanging from the ceiling in the corner of her room.
This DIY is easy, fun & budget-friendly. Windsocks can be hung outside in a garden or as the perfect room decor.
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Materials for this DIY windsock
- empty tin can (one that you can remove both ends)
- paint (we used acrylic)
- sealer (optional)
- waterslide decal paper (for inkjet primters)
- ribbons, string, yarn, &/or lace
- rubberband
- String or fishing line to hang
- Beads or images for embellishments
I used an image graphic from thegraphicsfairy.com that I saved and sized on Canva.com. I printed the image onto waterslide decal paper.
Tools for this DIY windsock
- paintbrush or paint sponge
- scissors
- can opener
- nail & hammer OR drill & small drill bit
- inkjet printer ( my HP model is no longer made but this one is similar) – Basic, easy to use

Tips & tricks for this DIY windsock
- Make sure your can lids can be removed. Some have rounded edges that can not be removed.
- For outdoor use, I recommend adding a coat of sealer to the inside & out of the can. AND add a row of glue under the rubber band.
- Remove the rubber band to tie the first set of ribbons on. Then once that is full place the band back onto the bottom of the can & put a piece of cardboard under the band that will add a space for the ribbons to slip through.

How to make a DIY windsock
- Take an empty can & remove the other end with a can opener.
- Clean the inside & out with dish soap and then dry your can.
- Apply two coats of acrylic paint allowing each coat to dry.
- Optional- add embellishments, paint a design, print an image & apply with Mod Podge.
- Gather your ribbons or lace and cut about 30 pieces that will be about 3 feet long. (You may want some pieces shorter & longer for a full layered effect)
- Place a rubber band along the bottom of your can & pull your ribbon through so that the band sits on the middle point of your ribbon.
- Tie each ribbon piece tightly. Then push your ribbons together to get a nice full look.
- Once you get the desired look ask an adult to drill three holes on the sides near the top at equal distances from each other.
- Take three pieces of string or fishing line and string them through each hole tying twice to the can. Tie them all together tightly at the top.
- Optional- Add an image: you can paint, draw, glue, decoupage, or apply stickers
- Optional- Sealing your piece for outdoor use.

You did it! Now it’s time to hang your upcycled creation & enjoy it!!!
You may also like
Tin Can Craft – Ways to Upcycle & Decorate
DIY Farmhouse Decor – Quick Upcycle Project
DIY Planter from Upcycled Paint Cans
Air Dry Clay Ideas for KIDS!

Thank you for stopping by! We hope you enjoyed this post on “How to Make a Windsock” using a tin can!
Please share with us by commenting below if you think your kid(s) would enjoy this fun DIY?
Blessings,
Kim & her tween team
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