There’s something mighty satisfying about turning an everyday castoff into something useful, especially in a bedroom where the little comforts matter so much. This bedside book nook is made from a large tin can wrapped in burlap ribbon and fastened right to the bed frame, giving you a snug little spot for a novel, reading glasses, or the remote without taking up space on your nightstand.
I’m especially fond of projects like this because they remind me of the old Midwestern habit of making do beautifully. A sturdy can, a bit of ribbon, and a few simple supplies can become a tidy bedside helper in less than an afternoon. If you like practical home décor with a warm, rustic touch, this one is easy to follow and genuinely handy.
Materials
Instructions
1. Wash the tin can well, remove any labels or sticky residue, and dry it completely. Run your fingers carefully around the rim and make sure there are no sharp edges.
2. Measure the height and circumference of the can, then cut the adhesive felt to fit the inside bottom and, if you like, a strip for the inside wall. Press the felt in place so books and glasses won’t rattle against the metal.
3. Cut a length of burlap ribbon long enough to wrap around the can once with a 1-inch overlap. If your ribbon is narrower than the can is tall, cut enough pieces to cover the full height.
4. Add a thin line of hot glue vertically on the side of the can and press the end of the burlap ribbon into place. Wrap the ribbon tightly around the can, smoothing it as you go, then glue down the overlap neatly.
5. If desired, glue the jute twine around the top and bottom edges of the burlap wrap for a more finished rustic look. Keep the trim even and press it down gently until the glue sets.
6. Open the hose clamps wide and slide them around the can, spacing one about 1 1/2 inches down from the top and the other 1 1/2 inches up from the bottom. Turn the clamp screws toward the back so they won’t show from the front.
7. Hold the can against a vertical section of the metal bed frame at mattress height, with the opening facing upward and slightly outward for easy reach. Thread the hose clamps around the bed frame and tighten them until the can feels secure and does not shift.
8. Test the holder with a paperback book first, then add your reading glasses, notebook, or remote. If it tilts, loosen the clamps, adjust the angle, and retighten until it sits just right.
Variations & Tips
Softer interior: Add a full felt lining inside the can if you plan to store eyeglasses or a phone, since it keeps things quieter and helps prevent scratches.
Extra sturdy version: Use three hose clamps instead of two if your can is especially tall or if you plan to keep heavier hardback books in it.
Farmhouse finish: Natural burlap has a plain, homespun charm, but you can also use cream burlap, narrow lace over the seam, or dark jute trim to better match your bedding.
Best placement: I like positioning the holder just a little forward of where my shoulder rests when I sit up in bed, so a book is easy to reach without bumping my elbow in the night.
Safety note: Always check the can rim before using it, and if it feels rough at all, cover the edge inside with a strip of felt or a bead of glue beneath the burlap wrap.
Good uses: This nook is just right for a paperback, a small devotional, hand lotion, reading glasses, or the television remote, but it’s best not to overload it with heavy items.