DIY— Make Yourself a Photo Icon
Clean out a large steel fruit juice can, or a shorter can. Cut out the top with a can opener. Do not use a zip-top can as they leave a dangerous sharp edge. Measure the height and circumference of the can (use a tape measure, or a strip of paper that you can mark, then measure with a ruler. Determine the number of prints you will need to cover the circumference of the can. You may need to tape two prints together (on the back) if the can is over 3-inches diameter and/or taller than 8.5 inches.
Design your own image. Scan something from a magazine. For tips on finding and printing pictures, see Finding and Printing Photos.
Make an inkjet print of a favorite vivid photo or design on 8.5 x 11 inch glossy inkjet photo paper (from Staples, Office Depot). Let it dry. Cut the image print to fit the can height and circumference. You can first protect and enhance the image print with clear adhesive page laminate (Staples, Office Depot, etc.). Roll the image around the can and tape it on using 2-sided carpet tape underneath, or clear office tape on the vertical seam in the back.
As a top, you can use a mailing tube cap or on old lid from a cookie tin covered with another print cutout. The cut off bottom of a 2-liter plastic soda bottle (inverted) or other plastic bottle also can make an interesting top. Tape the edge to dull the sharp edge.
You can also make a similar item by rolling up and inserting the image into a 3-inch diameter glass column vase.
The Icon shown in the picture is made from 4-inch diameter thin-wall plastic drainage pipe sold at Lowes or Home Depot in 10 foot lengths, and 4-inch mailing tube caps. It’s the same principle.
We have more tips, uses and ideas for your photo prints at DoDesignDIY.com/DIY/index.html. Come and visit.