Back to School Craft | Soup Can Covers

As summer winds down and the back-to-school season approaches, many of us look for creative ways to prepare for the new academic year. While Pinterest is brimming with mason jar crafts, I recently thought, “What if people want a less messy, more straightforward option?” That’s when the idea of soup can covers came to me.

Now, don’t get me wrong — I adore mason jars. They’re charming and versatile, but not everyone has the time or patience for crafts that demand extensive effort. If you’re nodding in agreement, keep reading!

The Spark of Inspiration

My journey began with a simple scroll through Pinterest. Among the sea of mason jar crafts, I envisioned an alternative: soup can covers. These covers would be easy to make, cost-effective, and as delightful as their mason jar counterparts. So, armed with my trusty cup of coffee—an essential companion for any creative endeavor – I designed these covers from scratch.

Why Soup Can Covers?

Why not? Haha. Soup cans offer a practical and adorable solution for back-to-school organization. They are perfect for both home and classroom settings, providing a cute way to store pens, pencils, scissors, and other school supplies. Plus, repurposing soup cans is an excellent way to recycle and reduce waste.

Materials for Back-to-School Craft

• 14.5 oz. Soup or Vegetable Cans
• Scissors or a Paper Cutter
• White Cardstock Printable Can Covers (templates provided below)
• Double-Sided Tape
• School Supplies (to store in the can)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cans: Start by thoroughly cleaning out your soup cans and removing any labels. Make sure the cans are completely dry before proceeding to the next step. Also ensure that you’ve used a smooth edge can opener and there are no rough edges that can cause an injury.

2. Print and Cut the Covers: Print the can cover designs onto white cardstock. Using cardstock adds durability to the covers, ensuring they last throughout the school year. Carefully cut out the covers using scissors or a cutting board.

Please remember that these covers are only intended to fit 14.5 oz cans.

3. Attach the Covers: Apply double-sided tape to the back of each cover and wrap it around the can. Make sure the edges are aligned for a neat finish.

4. Fill with School Supplies: Once the covers are securely in place, fill the cans with your favorite school supplies. Voila! You now have a set of charming and functional storage cans ready for the new school year.

For a more personal touch, involve your kids in the design process. Let them choose colors, patterns, and draw their own designs on some plain white paper before attaching them to the cans.

At Home or In the Classroom

These soup can covers are not just for home use — they’re perfect for the classroom, too. Teachers can use them to organize supplies on their desks or create a colorful storage solution for student use. Imagine a row of neatly labeled cans, each containing different types of school supplies, making it easy for students to find what they need without creating a mess.

Why You’ll Love This Back to School Craft

• Simplicity: Unlike some mason jar crafts that require multiple steps and materials, these soup can covers are straightforward and quick to make. You can complete several in an afternoon.
• Affordability: Most of the materials needed are either already at home or inexpensive to purchase, making it a budget-friendly craft for anyone.
• Functionality: These cans are highly functional beyond their aesthetic appeal. They help keep school supplies organized and within easy reach.

A Back to School Craft for All Ages

This project is suitable for all ages. Younger children can help clean the cans and apply the tape, while older kids can take on more detailed tasks like cutting the covers and adding their designs. It’s a fantastic way to spend quality time together while preparing for the new school year.

Sustainability

You’re also contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle by repurposing soup cans. Instead of discarding used cans, you’re giving them a new purpose. This not only reduces waste but also teaches children the importance of recycling and creativity.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a fun, easy, and affordable back-to-school craft, give these soup can covers a try. They’re perfect for organizing school supplies, adding a personal touch to your workspace, and teaching kids about recycling. Plus, the satisfaction of seeing a plain soup can transformed into a cute storage solution is immensely rewarding.

Other Back to School fun:

A Pencil Treat Craft
Backpack and/or Lunch Bag Tags
Free Printables for Teachers
Apple Hoop Art/Craft

So next time you finish a can of soup, don’t throw it away. Instead, turn it into something beautiful and functional. Happy crafting!

The Printable Covers

Please Note: All printables and downloads designed by Live Laugh Rowe are for PERSONAL USE ONLY. Please do not alter the file or claim it as your own. The resale of electronic files and printed versions is prohibited.

Yellow No. 2 Pencil Cover Download
Red Apple A+ Teacher Cover Download
Composition Notebook Cover Download

updated 7/19/24