'I Bet It Sounds Lovely When It Rains' — DIYer Creates A Garden Rain Chain Using Soup Cans

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When you're working with limited space, adding a bit of personality to your outdoor areas isn't easy. So when you find DIYs that let you take advantage of already existing features, while making them even more fun, it's tempting to jump right in. @mrsclarehoops on TikTok offers just that, with a video about making your own rain chain. This DIY hack could potentially let you ditch the metal rain gutters you likely already have on your home. 

Rain chains are an alternative to downspouts, offering whimsical outdoor decor with a charming yet functional design. They are usually made with cups or containers that have holes in and a chain that links them together. This DIY rain chain can be made by poking holes in recycled soup cans and connecting them using a piece of rope. You can also use a rock to weigh down the base. Though it wasn't raining when the video was recorded, the creator demonstrates what it would look like in the rain by pouring water through it. The water overflows from the cups, traveling down the chain as it drains off, and creating a lovely, tinkling sound. This creator leaves the cans plain, but a bit of paint could spruce them up.

@mrsclarehoops ♬ original sound – Mrs Clare Hoops | Crafts/Hacks

People in the comments generally loved the design. "What a great idea!! I bet it sounds lovely when it rains," said one. Others talk about how simple this project is. While you can also reuse beautiful vintage tea cups to make a DIY rain chain, it doesn't produce the same amazing sound. However, while charming, there are some potential issues you should know before trying this for yourself.

Many of the comments on this DIY rain chain video also talk about how cheap this option is compared to buying one. "Wait, I can make one of those fancy things I can't afford THANK YOU FOR SHARING," said one commenter. Since the cans are repurposed, you really only need to buy the rope and something to hang it with, like a hook or carabiner, potentially bringing your total to under $10. While you can find some pre-made rain chains for around $20 (like this one from Quanqiuyi), many are closer to $50 or $60. 

Some viewers did have a few worries about the cans rusting. This isn't necessarily an issue if you handle them carefully and can leave a lovely patina. If you'd rather keep your cans looking new and prevent color changes, all you have to do is coat them with a metal paint or a waterproof spray.

Another potential problem is the water pooling at the bottom of the cans, which may create a haven for mosquitoes. "I wish I could do this, but I live in the tropics — I probably shouldn't have a dengue incubator in my back yard," one comment read. In the video, the creator shows the cans hanging at an angle on the chain, which can lead to water collecting at the bottom. To prevent this, make sure you put multiple holes in the base at different points.

Personally, I love rain chains, and I have bought a few sets over the years. Unfortunately, based on where I live and my home's design, they aren't for me. When it rains here, it rains hard. The water couldn't be contained by the chains and ended up falling directly along the side of my house, which is bad for the foundation. Additionally, because many rain chains, including DIY ones, release water slowly and hold onto some liquid, they aren't great for cold climates, as the excess water can freeze.

Also, you need to consider what you are going to do with the water that comes out at the bottom. Your rain chains only go to the ground, but to keep your foundation safe, the water needs to run off at least 4 feet away from your house. If your state regulations allow for it, you can put something underneath to collect water, but you need to find a way to dump it occasionally. A channel directing it away from your home also works.

That doesn't mean you can't experiment with a DIY rain chain. However, it may be something you put along the edge of a shed, as the original creator demonstrates, or out in the open to get the beautiful sound, while still relying on more heavy-duty rain gutters on your home.