Measure 1 inch from the bottom of the two cans. Using the X-Acto blade, cut around the cans, removing the 1-inch portions from the bottom. Using the sandpaper, sand away the sharp edge from the recent cuts. Do the same with both of the 1-inch pieces.
Stretch out one piece by pulling from the inside on opposite sides. On the underside of the stretched piece (the bottom of the soda can), take the thumbtack and poke four holes into the center of the metal, similar to the pattern of button holes on a shirt. This will be the fill spot for the fuel.
Place the piece without holes so that the exposed cut portion is facing up. Take the piece with the holes and slide over the second piece. This should fit snugly. so you may have trouble getting it to fit initially. Use a sliver of metal to slide areas into one another that are stuck. Push the two pieces together firmly. Using a table, roll the unit on its side firmly to lock the pieces together. You can also use a screwdriver to make indentations in the seams to further secure the two pieces.
Create the fuel jets by poking equidistant holes around the rim of the top of the stove. Remember that these holes will go on the side where you've already created the fuel fill holes. You now have a working stove.
Fuels that you can use in these stoves are denatured alcohol and HEET (type of antifreeze). Test the stove by pouring one ounce of denatured alcohol or HEET into the stove. Light with a match or lighter and wait. After a few moments, flames should shoot from the jets and look similar to a gas stove.
