DIY Volkswagen van from recycled tin can, free craft printable!

How to Make a Volkswagen Van from a Tin Can

Step 1: Prepare the Can

Clean and dry your tin can thoroughly before painting. Ensure there are no sharp edges. 

Step 2: Paint the Base Coat

Paint your tin can white and let it dry completely. You may need two coats for solid coverage. Allow each layer to dry for approximately 30 minutes. I recommend using Acrylic paint for good coverage on all surfaces. My favorite is Amsterdam Acrylics; it covers perfectly! 

Step 3: Add the Van’s Body Color

Use painter’s tape to mark off the top of the can. Paint the bottom section red (or any color you prefer). This will create the classic two-tone van design. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape.

Step 4: Paint the Front “V” Shape

On the front of your can, draw a V-shape for the van’s nose. Leave the inside white and paint the surrounding area red to match the lower half. Let it dry before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Add the Windows

Cut out windows from light blue, grey, or black paper. You’ll need four small side windows and one large front window. Use the printable template as a guide for size and shape. Glue them evenly around the can.

Step 6: Create Headlights

Glue two small buttons to the front of your van for headlights. You can also add sequins or beads on top for extra sparkle; see images for reference.

Step 7: Attach the Wheels

Glue two large buttons to each side of the can to make the wheels. If you don’t have buttons, cut circles from cardboard or use plastic lids.

Step 8: Add the Christmas Tree

Glue a small pine branch or miniature Christmas tree (3 or 4 inch) to the top of your van. Then, tie it down with a piece of yarn, ribbon, or twine for that perfect “Christmas road trip” look.

Optional: Turn It Into a Beach Van

This craft isn’t just for Christmas! Use bright colors like turquoise, yellow, or pink and decorate with paper flowers or surfboards to make a summer beach van. It’s a great craft for year-round fun and a creative way to reuse cans in different themes.

Teacher and Parent Tips

• This craft is great for classroom recycling projects or Earth Day activities.
• Let children customize their vans to match their favorite colors.
• For younger crafters, pre-cut the windows and shapes in advance.
• Display finished vans as Christmas decorations or gift boxes, just fill them with treats!

More Fun Christmas Crafts

Looking for even more creative Christmas fun? We’ve got you covered! 

Explore our blog post featuring 29 fun and easy Christmas crafts for kids, packed with colorful, hands-on projects that are perfect for home or classroom activities. From paper ornaments to reindeer puppets, there’s something for every age and skill level!

Want a simple, ready-to-go way to keep kids crafting all season long?
Discover our BIG Christmas Craft Printable Bundle, specially designed for kids ages 5–8. Inside, you’ll find festive templates, coloring pages, and easy craft projects that make Christmas crafting stress-free and full of joy.

Everything is low-prep, print-and-go, and perfect for sparking creativity and imagination, whether at school, daycare, or home.

Get the bundle now on Teachers Pay Teachers or our Etsy craft printables shop and make this holiday season magical, creative, and full of festive fun!

Final Thoughts

This DIY Volkswagen Van Tin Can Craft is the perfect mix of creativity and sustainability. It’s an easy and charming project that teaches kids how to repurpose materials while creating something beautiful. Whether you make it as a Christmas decoration, a handmade gift box, or a fun weekend craft, this cheerful van is sure to bring smiles.

So grab your empty cans, print the free template, and start crafting your own little holiday road trip today!