There’s something magical about transforming ordinary pennies, nickels, and dimes into stunning decorative pieces. Coin crafts have captivated DIY enthusiasts for generations, offering an affordable and creative way to repurpose those forgotten coins sitting in jars and piggy banks. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting your creative journey, working with coins opens up a world of artistic possibilities.
Why Choose Coins for Your Next Art Project?
Coins make exceptional crafting materials for several compelling reasons. Their uniform size and shape provide consistency in design, while their metallic finish adds an elegant, professional touch to any project. Best of all, they’re readily available and inexpensive. That jar of pennies collecting dust can become your next masterpiece. For deeper insight into the art and history of coin design, explore how coins have evolved into artistic and historical artifacts.
The durability of metal coins means your creations will last for years, unlike paper or fabric crafts that may deteriorate over time. Plus, the weight and substance of coins give your finished pieces a quality feel that lighter materials simply can’t match.
Essential Supplies for Crafts Using Coins
Before diving into your first project, gather these basic materials:
You’ll need a strong adhesive designed for metal, such as E6000 or a hot glue gun with high-temperature glue sticks. Standard craft glue won’t hold the weight of coins effectively. A sturdy base is also crucial—consider wood plaques, canvas boards, or heavy cardboard depending on your project size.
For cleaning coins before use, keep white vinegar and salt on hand. This combination removes tarnish and grime, making your coins shine. A soft cloth for polishing and protective sealant spray will help preserve your finished work.
Beginner-Friendly Coin Art Ideas
Decorative Coin Frames
Picture frames adorned with coins create stunning focal points in any room. Start with a plain wooden frame and arrange cleaned coins around the border in overlapping patterns. You can create uniform rows for a modern look or mix denominations for an eclectic style. This project works beautifully with all copper pennies for a warm, rustic appearance.
Coin-Covered Planters
Transform ordinary terra cotta pots into eye-catching planters by covering the exterior with coins. Begin at the bottom rim and work upward in concentric circles. The metallic surface catches light beautifully and adds sophistication to your indoor or outdoor plants. Seal the coins with a waterproof coating to prevent weathering.
Mosaic Coin Coasters
Create functional art by making coasters from coins and resin. Arrange cleaned coins in circular patterns inside silicone molds, then pour clear epoxy resin over them. Once cured, these coasters are both practical and conversation-starting pieces for your coffee table.
Intermediate Coin Art Projects
Coin Wall Art and Murals
For those ready to tackle larger projects, coin murals offer incredible visual impact. Design your pattern on paper first—geometric shapes, words, or images all work wonderfully. Transfer the design to a wooden board or canvas, then glue coins to fill in your pattern. Mixing different coin types creates natural shading and dimension.
I once created a gradient sunset scene using pennies of varying ages. The newer, shinier pennies represented the bright horizon, while tarnished older pennies formed the darker sky. The natural patina variation eliminated the need for paint or additional coloring.
Coin-Embellished Furniture
Give old furniture new life by adding coin accents. Table tops, drawer fronts, and cabinet doors become artistic statements when covered with carefully arranged coins. This technique works particularly well on small accent pieces like side tables or jewelry boxes. Apply a clear epoxy coating over the entire surface for durability and a glass-like finish.
Three-Dimensional Coin Sculptures
Challenge yourself by building sculptural forms with coins. Stack and glue coins to create spheres, pyramids, or abstract shapes. These dimensional pieces catch light from multiple angles and make impressive centerpieces or mantel decorations.
Advanced Craft Ideas for Coins
Coin Jewelry and Wearable Art
Drilling small holes in coins allows you to create unique jewelry pieces. Fashion pendants, earrings, or charm bracelets from coins with special meaning—perhaps pennies from significant years or coins collected during travels. Check local regulations, as some jurisdictions have restrictions on defacing currency intended for circulation.
Coin Backsplash Projects
For the truly ambitious, a coin backsplash in your kitchen or bathroom creates an unforgettable focal point. This project requires hundreds or thousands of coins, careful planning, and proper sealing to withstand moisture and cleaning. The result is a one-of-a-kind surface that transforms your space.
Tips for Successful Crafts With Coins
Always clean your coins thoroughly before starting. Even coins that appear clean have oils and residue that can prevent proper adhesion. Soak them in a vinegar and salt solution for about 15 minutes, rinse well, and dry completely.
Plan your layout before gluing. Once coins are adhered, repositioning becomes difficult or impossible. Lay out your entire design dry first, take a photo for reference, then glue section by section.
Consider the weight of your finished piece. Large coin projects become surprisingly heavy. Ensure your base material and hanging hardware can support the weight. For wall-mounted pieces, use appropriate anchors and heavy-duty picture hanging strips.
Protect your work with a clear sealant. This prevents tarnishing and makes cleaning easier. For pieces that won’t be handled frequently, a simple spray sealant works well. For items like coasters or table tops, use durable epoxy resin.
Where to Source Coins for Your Projects
Start by raiding your own coin jar, but don’t stop there. Ask friends and family to save their spare change for you. Banks often have rolled coins available, and some will exchange bills for coins without fees for account holders.
For specific denominations or vintage coins, check with local coin collectors or visit coin shops. While uncirculated coins cost more, common circulated coins remain very affordable and work perfectly for crafting purposes.
Estate sales and thrift stores sometimes sell jars of coins, offering variety at good prices. Just remember to sort through carefully—occasionally you might find a valuable coin better suited for a collection than a craft project.
Caring for Your Finished Coin Creations
Once completed, your coin crafts require minimal maintenance. Dust regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent buildup. For sealed pieces, occasional cleaning with a damp cloth keeps them looking fresh.
Display your creations away from extreme humidity when possible. While sealed properly, excessive moisture can eventually cause tarnishing. If tarnish does appear on unsealed areas, a gentle polish with a soft cloth usually restores the shine.
For outdoor coin projects, reapply protective sealant annually to maintain weather resistance and prevent deterioration.
Getting Started With Your First Coin Craft
The beauty of coin art lies in its accessibility. You don’t need expensive supplies or advanced artistic skills to create something beautiful. Start small with a single coaster or decorated frame. As your confidence grows, expand to more ambitious projects.
The tactile nature of working with coins makes this craft particularly satisfying. There’s something deeply rewarding about arranging these small metal circles into patterns and watching your design take shape. Each coin you place brings you closer to a finished piece you’ll be proud to display or give as a thoughtful handmade gift.
So gather those forgotten coins, pick up some glue, and let your creativity flow. Your next favorite decoration might be hiding in your pocket right now.
