10 Outdoor Projects That Started With A Used Coffee Container

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Think that empty coffee container belongs in the trash? Think again. With a little creativity, that simple can could become the most useful thing in your backyard. These clever outdoor reinventions will surprise you. Take a look at this inventive lineup, as you’ll find fresh reasons to hang onto those containers and start creating something brilliant outside.

Bird Feeder

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Sometimes, the simplest upcycle turns into the most delightful backyard feature. Clean out an old coffee canister, decorate it with twine or paint, and fill it with birdseed. Soon, the garden will come alive with chirps and color as birds gather daily for a snack.

Weatherproof Storage

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Gardeners know the struggle: moisture ruins seeds faster than weeds can grow. A plastic coffee container solves that instantly. Its water-resistant shell keeps tools or seed packets safe outdoors, especially with a tight-fitting lid. You can also label or decorate it to match your garden’s style.

Outdoor Lantern

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Evening projects feel magical when lit right. First, punch decorative holes into a metal coffee tin, slip in a solar light, and watch patterns dance across your patio. Since the lanterns rely on built-in solar batteries, there’s no wiring involved.

Planter Pot

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An empty coffee container carries more potential than it seems. Once fitted with drainage holes, it becomes a sturdy, reusable planter for herbs or marigolds. The smooth surface welcomes paint or stencils, which adds a personal touch to an eco-friendly piece of garden decor.

Portable Ash Can

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After a campfire, ashes tend to scatter or make a mess. Your metal coffee can keep them contained and safe. Just ensure ashes are fully cooled before storage, as plastic lids can melt. Paint it with high-heat spray paint for a durable, stylish look around the fire pit or RV.

Bug-Repellent Candle Holder

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Summer evenings are best spent outdoors, minus the mosquitoes. Therefore, it’s best to drop a citronella candle inside a coffee canister. Its metal sides will block the wind while letting soft light through punched holes. You can even customize the can, and the patio gains bug-free comfort.

Mini Compost Bin

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Urban gardeners don’t need big compost piles. A coffee container can become a compact compost bin by drilling small holes for airflow and drainage. Layer kitchen scraps with dry leaves to prevent odor. Over time, the mixture turns into rich compost.

Waterproof Storage for Camping Matches And Lighters

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When camping in damp weather, dry matches can mean the difference between a warm meal and cold hands. A coffee container with a snug lid keeps moisture out while its sturdy build prevents crushing. Personalize it with camping-themed paint, and you’ve got a weatherproof essential that fits neatly in any backpack.

Paintbrush Rinse Container For Outdoor Projects

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Outdoor painting gets messy fast, but a repurposed coffee can keeps brushes clean and your workspace organized. Its size fits most standard brushes, and it’s durable enough for repeated rinsing. Add a label to track which paint was last used, seal it between sessions, and reuse it project after project.

Outdoor Speaker Amplifier

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An old coffee canister makes a surprisingly good shell for an outdoor speaker. Slip your Bluetooth device inside to create a richer sound reflection. The metal walls enhance tone without truly increasing volume. Finish it with waterproof paint for a sleek, durable outdoor accent.