Who says snowmen only belong to snowy backyards? With a few old propane tanks, you can build a frosty friend that won’t ever melt.
This quirky snowman, topped with a metal hat and fitted with rebar arms, looks ready to wave at passersby. Its rustic style gives it an old-fashioned charm, the kind you’d find at a country Christmas market.
Kids will love the character, and you’ll love that it’s practically indestructible. It’s the kind of decoration that brings smiles year after year.
Materials Needed
- 3 empty propane tanks (20 lb size for a medium snowman, cleaned and vented)
- Metal pipe or cylinder (6-8” tall)
- Flat metal plate (approx. 10” diameter)
- Rebar rods (2 pieces, 18-24” long)
- Metal washers, nuts, and bolts (for eyes, buttons, and mouth details)
- Welding machine and safety gear (mask, gloves, jacket)
- Rust-resistant outdoor paint: white, black, orange (optional, if painting)
- Clear sealant spray (if you prefer to preserve the rustic finish)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the propane tanks by ensuring they are fully empty and safe to work with. Then sand off loose rust and dirt, but you can leave some patina if you want a rustic look.
Step 2: Stack the tanks vertically, largest on the bottom and smallest on top. Weld them together securely at the seams to form a stable structure.
Step 3: Attach the rebar arms to the middle tank. You want to bend them slightly to mimic a waving gesture for more personality.
Step 4: Create facial features and buttons using metal washers, bolts, or scrap pieces. Weld them into place or attach with strong adhesive for a less industrial approach.
Step 5: Build the hat by welding a pipe section onto a flat round plate. Mount it to the top of the snowman’s head.
Step 6: If you want a traditional snowman look, paint the tanks white, the buttons black, and add an orange nose. Or, keep the natural rust for a vintage, rustic style.
Step 7: Seal with a clear outdoor protectant if you want the snowman to last multiple seasons without excessive rusting.
Tips:
If you keep the rusty finish, position the snowman in a garden or rustic outdoor space as it blends beautifully with natural surroundings.