Re-using scrap metal and plastic

Here's an idea to make something out of rubbish. I've been chopping the top and the bottom off these Coffee Mate canisters, to separate the cardboard, plastic, and metal for recycling. It can be easily done with a bread knife then the bits can be placed in the appropriate bins. It seems such a shame to throw it all away though, so I have saved some of the plastic lids and the shiny metal bottoms and rims. There must be something I can make with them.

The bits of cardboard stuck around the edge can be trimmed with nail scissors or a craft knife, to tidy it up a bit. It doesn't all have to be removed as it will be hidden. The date stamp on the bottom can be wiped off with nail varnish remover.

Then all you have to do is to put the bottom inside the plastic lid and press it tight in.

And there you have a free coaster. They can be wiped with a damp cloth, or the two parts can be separated for washing.

Now, what can be made of the metal rim around the top of the container. Well funnily enough this fits exactly inside the plastic lid, and makes a sweet little picture frame. The trouble is that you only have one plastic lid, so you have to decide whether to use it as a coaster, or the back of a picture frame. I have saved several lids so I have plenty for both. If you like you could cover the pictures with sticky back plastic, and use them as coasters, but you won't be able to wash them. You could always change the pictures if they get a bit mucky.

Another idea, join them at the back with sticky tape, add a bit of ribbon and hang them on the wall. Or you could glue a magnet on the back and have them as fridge magnets.

A free picture frame.

 And a free coaster.

Some snacky foods are sold in similar containers. You can use any of them for the picture frames, but they might not all be big enough for the coasters. When they start looking a bit scratched and scuffed, all you do is put them in the recycling bin, and make some fresh new ones. Easy init  :o))

PS. Thank you for your good wishes for Bugsy. He is a bit better today, no sick, and runny poo's to clear up. I think the chicken has settled his stomach a bit.