Features

Craft Corner: Up-cycled soda can sun coasters

Tess Frey, Features Editor | April 1, 2026

Soda cans have so much potential outside of just piling up in a recycling bin. Sun coasters are a great way to reuse cans and prevent water damage on furniture from tasty drinks.

Soda cans. Perfect for containing a cold, refreshing soda, and just as perfect for leaving rings all over tables and furniture. But what if instead of just filling up a recycling bin or rolling around on the side of the road (don’t litter!) empty soda cans could be the solution to this problem? Decorative can coasters in the shape of the shining center of our are not only affordable, but also easy to make.

Materials:

Empty soda can
Scissors or box cutter
Washable marker

Instructions:

Step 1

Gather all materials.

Step 2

Cut off the top of the can. Be very careful when trying to get a blade into the can, as it can slip around. Then, draw approximately how spaced out you want the solar flares to be. Approximately a half of an inch is optimal.

Step 3

Cut the solar flare strips and bend outwards. Try to cut as carefully and consistently as possible. Not only can the can metal be sharp, but the jagged edges caused by careless cuts are extra treacherous.

Step 4

Take each solar flare strip and bend them towards the right so they cross over the attachment point on the base of the can. Bend them back a bit so the strips are perpendicular to the ground.

Soda cans have so much potential outside of just piling up in a recycling bin. Sun coasters are a great way to reuse cans and prevent water damage on furniture from tasty drinks. (photo by Tess Frey)

Step 5

Roll the solar flare strips in. They should all be rolled the same direction, but a bit of variation in the tightness and length creates a more unique look

Congrats! Just like that, an easy peasy lemon-squeezy sun coaster. You no longer have to sweat about your can sweating, and it will fit perfectly. Whether you are an Italian soda connoisseur or a simple sprite lover, this coaster is a quick and affordable way to protect your furniture and planet from damage.

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About the Contributor

Tess Frey, Features Editor

Tess Frey is a sophomore and one of the Features editors at the BluePrint. She enjoys anything creative from sewing, crocheting, fashion, and playing with her dog, Flynn. She wants use her voice to help and report what is truly going on, and make an actual impact on the world, while still having fun. She is excited for her first year on staff!