Tying cans to the back of a car is a classic and joyful tradition, most commonly associated with wedding celebrations, symbolizing good luck and a festive send-off for newlyweds. While seemingly straightforward, properly executing how to tie cans to the back of a car requires careful consideration to ensure safety, prevent damage to the vehicle, and comply with local regulations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from gathering materials to the final secure check, ensuring your celebratory gesture is both memorable and hassle-free.
Understanding the Tradition and Its Significance
The practice of tying cans to the back of a car, often accompanied by “Just Married” signs, dates back centuries. While its exact origins are debated, common theories suggest it stems from old customs of warding off evil spirits with loud noises, or simply as a way to announce the joyous occasion to the world. Today, it remains a beloved symbol of celebration, marking a new beginning for couples and adding an iconic touch to their special day. The clatter of cans creates an unmistakable festive atmosphere, often evoking smiles and honks from fellow drivers. However, celebrating responsibly means understanding not just the what but the how to prevent any unfortunate incidents or damage, especially when dealing with a moving vehicle.
Safety First: Essential Considerations Before You Start
Before you even think about grabbing cans and string, prioritizing safety is paramount. An improperly secured string of cans can pose several risks, including becoming a projectile on the road, distracting other drivers, or causing significant damage to the vehicle itself.
Legal and Road Safety Implications
While generally permitted, it’s wise to check local traffic laws regarding vehicle modifications or objects trailing behind a car. Ensure that the cans do not obstruct the driver’s view, obscure license plates or lights, or create a hazard for pedestrians or other vehicles. The primary concern is that anything attached to a moving car must be absolutely secure and not risk detaching, especially at higher speeds.
Protecting the Vehicle’s Finish and Components
Cars are significant investments, and no one wants a celebratory gesture to result in scratches, dents, or broken components. The friction from cans dragging on the ground, or even the attachment points, can mar paintwork if not properly protected. Furthermore, attachment methods must not interfere with the car’s exhaust system, undercarriage, or rear bumper in a way that causes damage or creates a fire hazard. Preventing damage to the vehicle’s electrical system, sensors, or cameras is also crucial, especially in modern cars with sophisticated rear-end technology.
Gathering Your Materials: What You’ll Need
Having the right tools and materials will make the process of how to tie cans to the back of a car much smoother and more secure.
The Cans
- Quantity: Typically, 6-12 cans are sufficient to make a good sound without being excessive.
- Type: Empty aluminum cans (soda, beer, vegetable) are ideal. They are lightweight, relatively soft (less likely to cause damage if they do hit the car), and produce a good clanking sound.
- Preparation: Thoroughly rinse cans to remove any residue. Allow them to dry completely to prevent mold or unwanted odors. Consider removing the pull tabs for safety, or pressing them flat.
The String or Ribbon
- Strength: Choose a strong, durable material that won’t easily snap. Nylon rope, thick twine, or heavy-duty ribbon are excellent choices. Avoid thin string or yarn, which can break under tension or friction.
- Length: You’ll need enough length to create individual strings for each can, plus a main string to connect them all, and additional length for attaching to the car. A good estimate is 50-100 feet depending on the number of cans and desired length.
- Color/Style: While strength is key, you can also opt for colors that match the wedding theme for an aesthetic touch.
Tools and Additional Items
- Can Opener/Puncture Tool: To create holes in the bottom of the cans (if not already opened from the top). A nail and hammer or a drill with a small bit can also work.
- Scissors: For cutting string/ribbon.
- Duct Tape or Electrical Tape: For reinforcing attachment points, bundling strings, or protecting surfaces.
- Soft Cloths or Microfiber Towels: To place between attachment points and the car to prevent scratches.
- Zip Ties: Optional, but can be useful for securing bundles of string or for temporary attachments.
- Safety Glasses and Gloves: Recommended when working with cans and sharp tools.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Tie Cans to the Back of a Car
Now that you have your materials and understand the safety precautions, let’s get into the practical steps.
1. Preparing the Cans for Attachment
- Clean and Dry: Ensure all cans are thoroughly cleaned and dried.
- Create Attachment Holes: If the cans were opened from the top, you can thread string through the opening. However, for a more secure and centered attachment, it’s better to create a small hole in the exact center of the bottom of each can. Use a nail and hammer, a sharp puncture tool, or a small drill bit for this. The hole should be just large enough for your chosen string to pass through.
2. Attaching String to Individual Cans
- Thread the String: Cut a length of string (e.g., 1-2 feet) for each can. Thread one end through the hole you made in the bottom of the can.
- Secure the Can: Tie a large knot on the inside of the can, or tie a small washer or button to the end of the string, to prevent the string from pulling back through the hole. Alternatively, you can tie a double knot and then secure it with a small piece of duct tape over the knot inside the can for extra security.
- Varying Lengths (Optional): To create a more dynamic look and sound, you can vary the lengths of string for each can, ensuring they don’t all drag at the exact same point.
3. Creating the Main String of Cans
- Gather the Cans: Once each can has its individual string, lay them out.
- Tie to a Main Line: Take a long piece of your strong string or ribbon (this will be the main line that attaches to the car). Starting from one end, tie each individual can’s string onto this main line.
- Spacing: Space the cans evenly along the main line, typically 6-12 inches apart. Ensure the knots are very secure. You might want to use a strong knot like a square knot or double knot, and then reinforce with a dab of super glue or tape for peace of mind.
- Check Length: Hold up the entire string of cans to ensure they hang as desired and the individual can strings are secure.
4. Choosing the Best Attachment Point on the Car
This is perhaps the most critical step for vehicle protection. You need a secure, non-damaging point.
- Under the Bumper/Frame: The ideal spot is usually underneath the rear bumper, where there are sturdy frame components or tow hook points. Look for existing loops, sturdy bars, or strong metal points that are not part of the exhaust system or easily visible from the outside.
- Trailer Hitch: If the car has a trailer hitch receiver, this is an excellent, very secure attachment point. You can thread the main string through the receiver or around the hitch ball.
- Avoid:
- Axle/Driveshaft: Dangerous entanglement risk.
- Exhaust Pipe: Heat can melt synthetic strings and pose a fire risk.
- Muffler/Tailpipe: Similar heat risks, plus can block exhaust flow.
- Plastic Bumper Covers: These are not designed to bear weight or friction and can easily be scratched or torn.
- License Plate Frame: Too flimsy.
- Anything that interferes with moving parts or sensors.
5. Securing the Cans to the Car
- Center the Main String: Once you’ve identified your attachment point(s), center the main string of cans underneath the car’s rear.
- Tie Securely: Use robust knots to attach the ends of your main string to the chosen points on the car’s undercarriage or frame. A hitch knot or a series of strong double knots are recommended.
- Prevent Rubbing: Place soft cloths or microfiber towels between the string and any part of the car body or paintwork where there might be friction. This is especially important if the string needs to pass over or around painted surfaces. Duct tape can also be used to create a protective barrier on the string itself where it touches the car.
- Test the Setup: Gently pull on the string of cans to ensure all knots are tight and nothing is loose. The cans should hang freely but securely, clearing the ground enough to avoid immediate snagging, but low enough to clatter.
6. Final Checks Before Driving
- Walk-Around Inspection: Before the car moves, do a thorough walk-around inspection.
- Are the cans clearing the ground enough? (They should drag, but not be immediately caught by small bumps).
- Are all knots tight and secure?
- Are there any parts of the string or cans that could potentially scratch the car’s paint? Add more protection if needed.
- Are the cans free from the exhaust system?
- Is the license plate or any lights obstructed?
- Are there any loose ends of string that could get tangled?
- Driver Briefing: Inform the driver about the cans. Advise them to drive slowly, especially when starting, turning, or going over bumps, to minimize stress on the attachment points and prevent excessive noise or damage.
- A quick tip for ensuring longevity and preventing wear on your vehicle during such events is to have your car’s undercarriage checked by professionals at *maxmotorsmissouri.com before or after the event. They can offer advice on protecting vulnerable areas or inspect for any minor damage after the celebratory drive.*
Tips for a Successful & Damage-Free Setup
Beyond the basic steps, these extra tips can help ensure your wedding car decoration is perfect.
Choosing the Right Cans
While aluminum soda cans are common, you might consider lightweight plastic bottles for an even safer and quieter option if the primary goal is visual appeal rather than loud noise. If noise is key, ensure cans are truly empty and clean, as residual liquid can add weight and attract pests.
Using the Correct String/Ties
Never underestimate the importance of strong string. Nylon cord, thin rope, or sturdy paracord are far superior to standard gift ribbon or thin twine. The thicker the material, the less likely it is to snap or fray. For very short celebratory drives, a thick, strong ribbon might suffice, but for any distance, durability is key.
Protecting the Car’s Finish
This cannot be stressed enough. Any point where string or cans might contact the car’s paintwork or delicate plastic components should be protected. Use painter’s tape (which is less adhesive than duct tape and won’t strip paint), microfiber cloths, or even pieces of felt. Ensure the cans themselves are not dragging directly against the car”s bumper or lower panels if they swing up.
Driver Awareness
The driver of the decorated car needs to be aware of the attached cans. Driving slowly, avoiding sudden stops or accelerations, and taking turns gently will help maintain the integrity of the setup and prevent damage. They should also be mindful of the added noise, which can be distracting.
Alternatives to Cans
If the idea of dragging cans doesn’t appeal, or if you’re concerned about potential damage, there are many charming alternatives for wedding car decorations:
- Ribbons and Bows: Streamers and bows tied to door handles, mirrors, or the antenna offer a classic, elegant look without the noise.
- Window Markers: Special car window markers can be used to write “Just Married” or draw celebratory designs. These are easily washable.
- Magnetic Signs: Many companies offer magnetic “Just Married” signs that are easy to apply and remove without damaging paint.
- Flower Garlands: Fresh or artificial flower garlands can be draped across the back of the car or around the license plate for a beautiful, romantic touch.
- Balloons: While festive, balloons can pop easily and create litter, so consider them for very short distances or stationary displays.
Removing the Cans Post-Celebration
Just as important as putting them on is removing them safely and completely.
- Careful Untying: Take your time to untie all knots. Do not yank or pull forcefully, as this could scratch the car or break a component.
- Inspect for Damage: After removal, thoroughly inspect the car’s undercarriage, bumper, and any areas where the string or cans might have made contact. Check for scratches, scuffs, or any displaced components.
- Clean Up: Collect all cans, string, and protective materials. Do not leave any debris behind. Recycling the cans is an eco-friendly final step.
Tying cans to the back of a car is a delightful tradition that adds a memorable touch to any celebration. By following these detailed steps on how to tie cans to the back of a car with careful attention to safety, secure attachment, and vehicle protection, you can ensure this charming custom is enjoyed by all without any unwanted repercussions.
Last Updated on October 10, 2025 by Cristian Steven
