Backyard get-togethers will never be the same once you roll out this Minion fire pit.
Made from an upcycled propane tank, it’s designed to make you laugh while keeping you warm. The open mouth becomes the perfect fire chamber, glowing like a lantern at night.
With its quirky arms and stout little legs, it feels almost alive like it’s ready to dance around the flames with you. Fun, practical, and a total conversation starter, this project proves that even scrap metal can bring joy.
Materials Needed
- 1 large empty propane tank (40-60 lbs)
- Sandpaper or wire brush
- Angle grinder with cutting discs
- Welding machine with protective gear
- 2 short steel pipes (4-6” each) for legs
- 2 longer steel pipes (12-18”) for arms
- 2 round steel caps or metal rings
- Steel plate
- High-heat resistant paint (black, yellow, or leave rustic)
- Heat-resistant glass or mesh (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Start by making sure your propane tank is completely empty. Remove the valve and fill it with soapy water overnight for safety before cutting.
Step 2: Sand or wire-brush the outside to remove rust and old paint. This also preps the surface for welding and painting.
Step 3: Cut out a large oval mouth opening in the front with an angle grinder. Then smooth the edges with a sanding disc to prevent sharp areas.
Step 4: Weld the short pipes at the base for feet, making sure they are evenly balanced so the fire pit stands sturdy.
Step 5: Weld on the longer pipes at the sides as arms, bending or angling them for a playful pose.
Step 6: Attach the goggles to the top using round steel rings, old car parts, or fabricated metal caps. Add bolts or washers for detail.
Step 7: Once assembled, apply high-heat resistant paint if you want a polished finish. You can go classic Minion yellow, or leave it rustic for a raw metal look.
Step 8: Place firewood inside the mouth opening, light it up, and watch as your Minion eats the flames with a mischievous grin.
Tips:
If you want the firelight to shine brighter through the goggles, cut out the center and cover it with mesh. Always place the fire pit on a non-flammable surface like gravel or stone.