Crafting with a Cold IPA Twist
One of my favorite card-making techniques is upcycling aluminum cans.
Soda and beer cans often feature colorful, eye-catching labels that add instant personality, fun, and whimsy to a handmade card—no specialty paper required.
Many cans use vinyl labels, which peel off easily and don’t require cutting the can itself.
If you do need to cut into the aluminum, a pair of tin snips or heavy-duty scissors works perfectly.
This was the case with this whimsical Day in the Sun label from Eddyline Brewery.
Perfect for a masculine-themed card!
Over the years, I’ve created a wide variety of cards using upcycled aluminum cans, and you can view that collection HERE.
I also share a step-by-step how-to video if you’d like to try this creative recycling technique yourself.
Crafting with a Cold IPA Twist How-to:
Prepare the Aluminum Can Label
-For this card, I used the vinyl label from a Cold IPA can by Bristol Brewery. Since the label is vinyl, it peels easily from the can—no cutting required.
-Adhere the label to a Basic White mat, then layer it onto an Orchid Oasis mat. (Orchid Oasis is retired, but it perfectly complements the colors in the label.)
-Attach the layered panel to a Basic White card base.
Complete the Card
-Stamp the greeting. I used a sentiment from the retired Build a Birthday stamp set, inked in Orchid Oasis.
-Finish by adding a few metallic dots for subtle shine and texture.
