If you don't want to buy a top then flatten your cans and hook them together for an unusual looking table. Shines nicely through clear plastic. I also use them to send or give gifts to people . Cookies and other things don't get smashed. I used one neat can I got as gift box without an decoration.
Coffee cans are a great way to transport a smaller amount of paint.
I also use it to clean paint brushes. I put varnish in a can clean the brush and dispose of the can. One other use would be to flatten a can and make a picture frame. Glue a small picture in the center. Or hook a few together for a unique design.