Paint Can Ideas for a Baby Shower

Table Centerpiece

Start by wrapping the empty paint can in craft or wrapping paper, leaving the top off. Use paper that emphasizes the baby's gender or matches the nursery's intended decor. Fill it with a few diapers, washrags or receiving blankets and then arrange rattles, small stuffed animals or other toys as one might arrange flowers (in a bouquet that pops out the top). Decorate the top with the baby's name and the date of the shower. You can also add real or silk flowers and balloons to heighten the piece.

For the parents-to-be, the list of things to bring to the hospital can seem never-ending. Give them a start by filling a paint can with a disposable camera, a CD of relaxing music, floss or other dental care items that require no water, a sleeping mask, a back massager, socks and anything else you think they might find useful. This can later be used to store memorabilia from the special day.

Label a can "Things I wish I'd known" or "Parenting advice" and place it on a small table. Place cards and envelopes of varying sizes and colors and instruct guests to write their piece of advice for the parents-to-be. You can make this something for the parents to open on their own or have people write them anonymously and make a game of trying to guess who said what.

If the father is attending the shower, or if you just want to make fun of him, fill a can with over-the-top diapering supplies like a paper mask, protective eye wear, heavy duty rubber gloves, air freshener and nose plugs. Decorate this one to be overtly masculine with tools, sports or camouflage.

Create a special can for the mother-to-be to savor and record her thoughts for her child. Include some teas such as Women's Nursing Support or Women's Raspberry Leaf teas by Yogi Tea, a journal and pen, a small clock or watch and a few small healthy snacks. Instruct the mother, via note attached to the can, that in order to be a good mom, she must be sure she also takes care of herself. You may want to include a list of support resources and phone numbers for Nursing Coaches, Parenting Groups, or the local La Leche League chapter.