DIY Projects & Crafts with Fasteners
DIY Allen Key Candy Cane Ornament
Transform an ordinary Allen key into a charming candy cane ornament for your holiday tree!
Watch How It's Made
Printable Instructions
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DIY Allen Key Candy Cane Ornament Instructions
Safety First!
- If this project is being worked on by or with a child, adult supervision is recommended for painting.
- Cover workspace to protect from paint.
Materials Needed
Fasteners & Hardware
- 1/4" Long Arm Allen Key / Hex Key (L-Wrench)
- Quantity: 1 per ornament
- Material: Any finish (will be painted)
- White acrylic paint
- Red acrylic paint
- Clear protective sealant (optional)
- Ribbon (1/4 inch width)
- Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
- Painter's tape (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparation
- Clean the Allen key thoroughly
- Dry completely with clean cloth
- Optional: Lightly sand surface
Step 2: Painting
- Apply white base coat
- Allow to dry completely (5 minutes)
- Create diagonal stripes with painter's tape (optional)
- Paint red stripes
- Remove tape while paint is wet (if using the painter tape)
Step 3: Finishing
- Allow paint to dry (10-15 minutes)
- Cut ribbon to 6-8 inches
- Tie ribbon for hanging
Creative Variations
Traditional Holiday
- Classic red and white stripes
- Red velvet ribbon
- Optional glitter coating
Modern Metallic
- Silver base with gold stripes
- Metallic ribbon
- Chrome finish effect
Rustic Style
- Distressed white base
- Burgundy stripes
- Twine for hanging
Pro Tip: Perfect Stripes
For the cleanest stripes, use thin masking tape and remove it while the paint is still slightly wet. This prevents paint from peeling and creates sharp lines.