Film canisters, once indispensable in the era of analog photography, now often find themselves relegated to the realms of nostalgia or simply discarded as relics of the past. However, film canisters are incredibly versatile little containers that are ripe with potential for innovative reuse!
Here are 12 imaginative ways to breathe new life into these small yet mighty vessels, turning them from mere artifacts into functional or creative helpers. These projects are easy, fun, and are a great way to keep plastic out of the waste stream.
Here are 12 Ideas for How to Use Re-Use Plastic Film Canisters
1. Store custom mixed acrylic paint.

Photo courtesy of funawesome.com
2. Make a hide a key for your planting beds

Photo courtesy of hgtv.com, image uncredited
3. Make a mini travel first aid kit

Photo courtesy of Alpine District Cubs (project link)
4. Cut off the bottom and create a mini diorama

Photo source and artist uncredited on Pinterest; unknown
5. Paint and decorate to create a cute animal coin tube

Photo courtesy of education.com
6. Create a needle case with pin cushion top

Photo courtesy of tuscanrose.com
7. Store your icing tips safely with custom cases

Photo courtesy of The Bearfoot Baker (project link)
8. Make Alka-Seltzer Rockets

Photo courtesy of Lemon Lime Adventures (project link)
9. Create a soft glow for your tree lights

Photo courtesy of Twitter, via Monica Danna, a.k.a. @CosmoPolitician
10. Make paint bombs for a fun project with the kids

Photo courtesy of steamsational.com (link to project)
11. Create a "Tooth Safe" for under the pillow

Photo courtesy of Pinterest. Source untraceable.
12. Make an ergonomic base for DIY foam stamps

Photo courtesy of Paper & Stitch (link to project)