At first glance, it might look like someone ruined a perfectly good galvanized trash can… but the truth is, this clever DIY is turning heads everywhere. By drilling evenly spaced holes into a simple 20-gallon metal trash can, you can transform it into a beautiful, glowing backyard lantern or fire pit that looks surprisingly high-end.
This viral idea combines creativity with practicality—and the result is both functional and decorative.
Why This DIY Is So Popular
- 🔥 Creates a magical glowing effect at night
- 💰 Extremely budget-friendly compared to store-bought fire pits or lanterns
- 🛠️ Easy to make with basic tools
- 🌿 Perfect for patios, gardens, and outdoor gatherings
When lit from the inside, the holes project mesmerizing patterns of light, instantly elevating your outdoor space.
What You Can Turn It Into
Depending on how you use it, this project can become:
- 🔥 A mini fire pit
- 🕯️ A large outdoor lantern
- 🌙 A decorative light feature
- 🍂 Even a leaf burner (where allowed)
Materials You’ll Need
- Galvanized metal trash can (with lid)
- Power drill
- Drill bits (various sizes for design variety)
- Marker (to plan your pattern)
- Safety gloves & goggles
- Optional: spray paint for customization
- Optional: candle, LED light, or firewood
💡 Tip: You can easily find affordable drills, drill bit sets, and galvanized cans online (like on Amazon) if you don’t already have them.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Before drilling:
- Use a marker to draw dots or patterns on the can
- Keep spacing even for a clean look
- Try shapes like lines, spirals, or geometric patterns
👉 The more precise your layout, the more impressive the final result.
Step 2: Drill the Holes
- Put on safety gloves and goggles
- Use a power drill to carefully make holes where marked
- Start with a small drill bit, then enlarge if needed
👉 Take your time to avoid bending the metal.
Step 3: Smooth the Edges
- After drilling, some holes may have sharp edges
- Lightly sand or file them down
👉 This step is important for safety.
Step 4: Clean the Can
- Wipe away any metal dust or debris
- Rinse and dry thoroughly
Step 5: Optional Customization
Want a more stylish look?
- Spray paint the outside (black for a modern feel, gold for a warm glow)
- Create patterns using different hole sizes
Step 6: Add Your Light Source
Now for the magic:
- Place a candle or LED light inside for a soft glow
- Or use it as a small fire pit with wood or (charcoal)
👉 As the light shines through the holes, it creates a beautiful patterned effect all around.
Affiliate Disclaimer
This article may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
I only recommend products and tools that are relevant, useful, and genuinely helpful for completing this DIY project successfully. Your support helps keep this content free and allows me to continue sharing creative ideas and guides.
Thank you for your support!
Pro Tips for Best Results
Safety Notes
- ⚠️ If using as a fire pit, always place on non-flammable ground
- ⚠️ Never leave fire unattended
- ⚠️ Metal can get very hot—handle with care
Final Thoughts
What looks like a simple metal trash can can quickly become a stunning backyard centerpiece with just a drill and a bit of creativity. Whether you use it for light, warmth, or decoration, this DIY proves that you don’t need expensive materials to create something truly beautiful.
