DIY Salters

Materials and Size

• To make a salter, you will need a can and a drill. Get a bigger can like the kind Chunky soup or baked beans come in. Using a bigger can will allow you to keep your trips over the snow and ice to a minimum. But you also want to keep the container small enough so it is manageable and so you can get it into the salt bag easily.

Making the Holes

• Use a drill to make holes in the can. Make sure you go up at least a half-inch from the bottom of the can so you leave the base of the can intact. When creating holes, use a 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch drill bit and run the drill into the can and then straight back out. Also, space the holes evenly--every inch or so--to ensure equal spreading.

  The holes will be more uniform if you use a step drill, but if you don't have one, don't sweat it. A hand drill can get the job done.

Getting a Grip

• If you are so inclined, a handle can be added to your homemade spreader. This will make it easier to dig into the salt bag without getting the stuff on your hands.

  To add a handle, make two holes with a step drill about halfway up the can. Also make two holes in a strip of metal that will be your handle. When all four holes are made, run sheet metal screws through the handle and can and fasten them with bolts.

Other Options

• Some other options for a homemade spreader that you may want to consider:

  - A plastic coffee can with holes cut in the bottom.
  - A hand scoop used with a one-gallon bucket of salt.