How do I waterproof a can?

NMB
by NMB

I have a large tin canister and removed the lid. I would like to use it for utensils on my counter but it will rust if it gets wet and needs to be waterproofed somehow. Also when I removed the lid, the edges are a bit rough. What to do about those? Thanks for the advice!

  4 answers
  • Chloe Crabtree Chloe Crabtree on Jan 05, 2019

    You could spray paint it with a Rustoleum brand spray paint or try spraying the inside with Flex Seal.

  • Mary Dodge Mary Dodge on Jan 05, 2019

    I suggest a light coat of FlexSeal clear, spray if you can find it. For the rough edge, depends on how much needs smoothed. Something simple like a nail file might smooth it, or a dremel. Good luck!

  • Gk Gk on Jan 05, 2019

    You could sand the edges with the fine side of a nail file. Just enough to smooth them out. If you paint your canister use a a primer first.

  • Deb K Deb K on May 13, 2022

    Hello NMB, you can apply a rust preventing paint to the inside like rustoleum, once it's dry, it will be fine for utensil storage. The rough edges can be smoothed by doing the following. Use pliers to pinch down the sharp edges or use a hammer to bang the sharp edges down. If you have a hand sander, just buff down the sharp edges. You can also glue ribbon around the sharp edge or put duct tape over the edge if you'll cover it later.