Build the (Unofficial) Boy Scout Candle Lantern

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Undoubtedly, most of you have — at one time or another — heard the Boy Scout motto, "Be prepared!" Well, in my 13-year involvement with Scouting, I've found that a big part of being prepared is knowing how to "do more with less" (another phrase that is certainly familiar to MOTHER-readers). And since I've put a good bit of MOTHER's wisdom to use in my BSA program over the years, I'd like to help even things up by sharing a Scouting idea with MOM's readers. It's a special adaptation of the old tin-can lantern, and — though it's nothing fancy — it's darned handy to have around the old homestead when the electricity goes off . . . and it's a great addition to any lowbudget camper's or backpacker's outfit.

Here's how to put together the no-cost little gadget:

Scrounge up a No. 10 tin can or a twopound coffee can . . . a wire coat hanger . . . an inch-long nail . . . a few inches of fine wire of some sort (copper is excellent for this) . . . a stick or narrow piece of wood about six inches long . . . and a candle stub or one of those short, fat kitchen candles. That's your total bill of materials!

Now, start work by straightening out the coat hanger, snipping off both curly ends, and cutting the wire in half. Lay the two pieces aside for a moment and direct your attention to the can. With the lid off the tin, turn the can on its side . . . so that what was the top is now the "front" of the soon-to-be lantern. Next, punch eight holes in the can. The bottom holes should be about twice as far apart as are those in the top. (See the accompanying illustration.)

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