Omar Khalid
Plastic bins are a great, affordable way to organize your space, but they're usually designed with functionality in mind and can end up looking quite plain and cheap. With a bit of creativity and some simple materials, you can transform your plastic bins into decorative storage pieces that add a touch of personality to your living space. There are many ways to decorate plastic bins, from using fabric and jute handles to spray paint and duct tape, and you can even add craft feet to raise them off the ground and give them a more elegant appearance. So, if you're looking for a fun DIY project that will improve your home organization and decor, read on for some inspiration!
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Paper, stickers, paint, ribbon, patterned cloth, duct tape, fabric, permanent markers, spray adhesive, mod podge, scrapbooking paper, buttons, washi tape, contact paper |
| Techniques | Painting, stencilling, gluing, drilling, covering with fabric, tying ribbon, applying stickers |
| Benefits | Cheap, customizable, can blend in with home decor, can be used to organise |
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What You'll Learn
Using patterned cloth or fabric
Decorating a plastic bin using patterned cloth or fabric is a simple and affordable way to transform it into a stylish decor piece that complements your living space. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving this:
Choosing the Right Fabric
The first step is to select a patterned cloth or fabric that aligns with your personal style and the aesthetic of the room where the bin will be placed. Consider the colour palette, existing patterns, and overall decor style when making your choice.
Preparing the Fabric
Once you have chosen your fabric, it's time to cut it to size. Ensure that the fabric is large enough to cover the bin's exterior surface area. If you plan to cover the bin's interior as well, account for that when cutting the fabric.
Applying the Fabric
There are a few methods you can use to adhere the fabric to the plastic bin:
- Spray Adhesive: Generously apply spray adhesive to the plastic surface of the bin, then carefully press the fabric onto it, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles.
- Mod Podge: Apply a layer of Mod Podge (a type of craft adhesive) to the back of the cloth and the plastic bin using a paintbrush. Press the fabric onto the bin, and once it sets, apply another layer of Mod Podge over the fabric to seal it.
- Weaving: If your bin has slots in it, you can cut strips of fabric and weave them through the slots to create a basket-like effect, with the pattern visible on the inside and outside of the bin.
Finishing Touches
To achieve a polished look, cut up the sides of the fabric where it overlaps at the corners. You can also add handles made from fabric, jute, or rope to improve functionality and portability, especially if you need to pull the bin out from under furniture.
With these steps, you can easily decorate a plastic bin using patterned cloth or fabric, adding a touch of creativity and personality to your storage solutions.
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Painting with spray, acrylic or enamel paint
Painting plastic bins with spray, acrylic, or enamel paint can be a fun and creative way to decorate your space. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the best results:
Preparation:
Start by choosing a paint suitable for plastic. Select a spray paint specifically made for plastic, or opt for acrylic or enamel paint. Check the paint label for any specific instructions and preparation requirements. If using spray paint, shake the can for a few minutes to mix the paint and ensure a smoother application. For acrylic paint, thin it with water to achieve a creamy consistency, reducing brush strokes. Some enamel paints also need to be thinned with a suitable paint thinner.
Priming the Surface:
Before painting, lightly buff the plastic surface with 220 to 300-grit sandpaper using a circular motion. This creates a slightly textured surface, allowing the paint to adhere better. Then, wipe down the plastic with alcohol to remove any oils that may prevent paint adhesion. Apply a coat of primer to further enhance paint adhesion and ensure a smoother finish.
Painting Process:
Hold spray paint cans 12 to 18 inches (30 to 46 centimeters) away from the surface and apply the paint in a sweeping motion. For acrylic paint, use a taklon, kanekalon, or sable brush, and for enamel paint, opt for a stiff-bristle brush. Apply light coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next. Alternate the direction of each layer for better coverage. Most projects will only require 2 to 3 coats, and the drying time is typically 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the paint type.
Final Steps:
After applying the final coat, let the paint dry for 24 hours. To enhance the paint's durability and protect it from chipping, consider sealing it with a coat of Mod Podge or a similar sealant. This step is especially important if the painted bin will be subject to wear and tear, such as those used for storing toys.
With these steps, you can successfully decorate your plastic bins with spray, acrylic, or enamel paint, creating a unique and personalized addition to your home or workspace.
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Decorating with duct tape or washi tape
Washi tape is a great way to decorate plastic bins. It comes in a variety of gorgeous patterns and colours, and can be used to decorate all kinds of surfaces, including plastic. It is lightweight, comes in different widths, and is removable. You can use it to decorate journals, envelopes, clothes pins, pumpkins, pencils, and even fingernails!
Duct tape is another option for decorating plastic bins. It is very sticky and durable, and comes in a range of bold fluorescent hues and patterns. It is a versatile tool that can be used to decorate a variety of surfaces, including plastic. It can be used to create a simple decoration by pressing it onto the container. For smaller containers, a small amount of duct tape will add personality without bulk.
You can also combine the two and use both duct tape and washi tape to decorate your plastic bins. This will give you a unique look that blends the soft colours and designs of washi tape with the boldness of duct tape.
There are endless ways to decorate plastic bins with duct tape and washi tape, so get creative and have fun!
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Adding ribbons and trims
One creative way to decorate a plastic bin with ribbons is to cut small holes in the plastic container and route ribbons through them. You can also add a row of cute ribbons along the corner of the bin to create a unique look. If you don't want to cut holes in your bin, you can use ribbons to create a woven "basket" look by threading them through the slots of a slotted plastic bin.
Another idea is to use ribbons to tie around a wicker storage bin to add a rustic, natural touch to your decor. You can also use ribbons to decorate the handles of your plastic bin or to create a bow on the front. If you're feeling creative, try using ribbons to make a pattern or design on the lid or sides of the bin.
When using ribbons and trims to decorate your plastic bin, consider the colour and pattern of the ribbons to match the contents of the bin or the style of your room. You can also use ribbons to create a more elegant or festive look, depending on the type of ribbon you choose.
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Labelling with objects from inside the bin
For instance, instead of writing "Lego" on a plastic box, glue a couple of bricks to the front. Similarly, rather than labelling a container "Office Supplies", glue a binder clip or marker to it. This method of labelling is both unique and informative, providing a preview of the bin's contents.
You can also use ribbon and similar trims to decorate your container and give it an elegant feel. Look for ribbon designs that match the contents of the box, such as silver ribbon for keepsakes or colourful ribbon for candy. Apply the ribbon using mod podge, hot glue, or tape, or simply tie it around the plastic.
Another way to decorate your plastic bin is by using patterned cloth. Find a cloth pattern that matches your style and cut out enough to cover the container. Apply a layer of mod podge to the back of the cloth and the plastic container, then press the cloth onto it. Once it has dried, apply another layer of mod podge over the cloth and let it dry. Try to tie the pattern into the room, such as using polka-dotted fabric in a room with polka-dotted wallpaper.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several materials you can use to decorate a plastic bin, including:
- Paint
- Stencils
- Paper
- Ribbon
- Fabric
- Tape
- Stickers
Duct tape, washi tape, and patterned duct tape can be used to decorate a plastic bin.
First, cut out enough fabric to cover the bin. Next, use a paintbrush to apply a layer of mod podge to the back of the fabric and the plastic bin. Then, press the fabric onto the bin and apply another layer of mod podge over the top. Finally, let it dry.
