There’s something striking about transforming rugged steel into festive art. This propane tank Jack-o’-Lantern merges industrial strength with holiday charm, creating a bold centerpiece for fall.
With its glowing orange paint and sharp black features, it mirrors the classic carved pumpkin but in a durable, weatherproof form.
Perfect for outdoor displays, it brings seasonal spirit while standing strong against wind and rain.
Materials Needed
- 1 empty propane tank (20 lb size works best, fully cleaned and vented)
- Spray paint: bright orange (1-2 cans, 12 oz each) and green for the top stem (1 can)
- Black vinyl stickers or matte black spray paint
- Painter’s tape and newspaper
- Sandpaper (120-grit, 1 sheet)
- Clear coat spray (1 can, matte or gloss finish)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Begin by making sure the propane tank is completely empty and safe to work with. Sand the surface lightly to remove rust and create a smooth base for paint.
Step 2: Wipe the tank clean with a damp cloth to remove dust. Then cover the valve area with tape if you don’t want paint on it.
Step 3: Spray the entire tank in bright orange, holding the can 8-10 inches away for even coverage. You can apply 2-3 thin coats, allowing each layer to dry for 15–20 minutes.
Step 4: Once dry, tape off the top handle area and spray it green, giving it the look of a pumpkin stem.
Step 5: Add the face! You can either cut out shapes from black vinyl (triangles for eyes, a toothy smile) and stick them on, or carefully spray-paint the design using a stencil.
Step 6: Seal everything with a clear coat to protect against scratches and weather, especially if you plan to place it outdoors.
Tips: If you want your Jack-o’-Lantern to “glow” at night, place a small LED lantern or fairy lights inside the tank to make it shine without real flames.