This post was originally published on DIY Network’s blog Made + Remade in May 2014.
I’m joining in on the mint tin upcycling fun today with a little project inspired by a little girl who loves purses … because what teddy bear or American Girl doll should go without stylish accessories? Right.
This is probably the cutest thing I’ve ever made.
Step 1
It doesn’t take much to create your own DIY doll purse, just a little creativity with some unexpected materials like a narrow belt and paper fasteners. (And if you’re thinking like I do, yes, in a day when staplers reign, those brassy paper fasteners are still sold readily in stores!)
Step 2
Start your project by identifying where the purse strap will attach to the sides of the tin. Tap a nail through the tin on either side.
Step 3
Cut the belt to an appropriate length to be a purse strap. Trim the ends of your strap in a cute design.
Step 4
Using the nail and hammer again, create new holes in the strap at the ends that will attach to the purse itself.
Step 5
Spray paint the tin in a well-ventilated area. Add 2-3 very light coats at different angles (with the tin open and shut) to prevent dripping. Allow it to dry well between coats.
Step 6
Attach the belt strap to the dried purse using the paper fastener.
Step 7
The clasp on the paper fastener is perfect for this application. See?
Step 8
Depending on your kid’s style, add a graphic detail to the front. This is a dimensional sticker that I picked out at the craft store, but traditional stickers would work too, as would hot gluing on an iron-on patch.
Step 9
Ta-da! Easy upcycle of a common household recyclable. How much did the kid like this? Beary much.
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