Maya Ellison
Plastic string designs can be used to make a variety of items, including keychains, lanyards, bracelets, and zipper pulls. The process involves weaving flexible, colourful plastic strips into intricate patterns, often referred to as boondoggles, scoubidous, scoobies, gimps, or rexlaces. To create these designs, individuals can use plastic lacing cord in a range of colours and finishes, such as glow-in-the-dark, glitter, translucent, neon, or opaque options. Basic techniques include the two-strand weave, which forms the foundation for more complex patterns. Additionally, plastic string can be created from upcycling plastic bottles, a process that involves building a rig to produce strong plastic string from PET bottles, resulting in 15-20 meters of string per bottle.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic bottles, plastic lace cord, plastic lacing cord, plastic string |
| Tools | Scissors, pliers, pencil sharpener, knife |
| Design | Lanyards, keychains, bracelets, zipper pulls, laces |
| Colors | Neon, glow-in-the-dark, glitter, translucent, opaque |
| Techniques | Weaving, poking, cutting, wrapping |
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What You'll Learn
Making plastic string from plastic bottles
First, you will need a piece of channel iron, which can be made of a light, hard metal or aluminium. Channel iron is a square tube with three sides, resembling "|_|". Using a drill, create a hole straight through the channel iron, large enough to fit a piece of all-thread. Next, take a piece of all-thread and bend it slightly, around 15 degrees. Insert this through the holes in the channel iron and secure it with washers and nuts.
Now, use a hacksaw to cut into the corner of the channel iron, creating a gap. You will also need either a regular razor blade or a blade from a pencil sharpener. Glue or weld the blade inside the channel iron, with the sharp edge positioned in the corner where the small cuts are. The blade will cover one side of the cut slits.
To begin making the plastic string, place a plastic bottle on the rod and cut it manually to create a thread. Thread this through the hole in the channel iron and pull until the entire bottle is used. You can adjust the width of the string by changing the size of the cut or hole in the metal. To create a wider string, angle the first few inches of the cut, gradually increasing the thickness as you cut in a spiral pattern towards the cap.
You now have a strong plastic string that can be used for various purposes. If you need to create a rope, simply wind multiple strings together. To secure your knots, you can heat them up to melt the plastic, but be aware that this will weaken the string and prevent reuse of that portion.
By following these steps, you can create a useful and durable plastic string from recycled plastic bottles.
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Lanyard patterns
Lanyards are a fun and simple craft that can be made with plastic string. They are also called scoubidous, scoobies, boondoggles, gimps, and rexlaces, among other names. Lanyards can be made with a variety of plastic string types, including:
- Flat weaving ropes
- Glitter, laser, glow-in-the-dark, or normal strings
- Neon or opaque bright colours
- Stretchy bracelet string
- Reflective or metallic cord
Lanyards can be made with different patterns and stitches, ranging from basic to advanced. Here are some instructions for a few lanyard patterns:
Basic Weave
- Cut two strands of material to equal lengths.
- Find the centres of the strands and lay them over each other like a "+" sign.
- Hold the centres between your thumb and pointer finger.
- Loop both ends of the bottom strand over your thumb.
- Weave the ends of the top strand through the loops.
- Move your thumb and tighten the stitch.
Square and Round Weave
- Start with a basic 2-strand square weave.
- Add additional strands and weave them the same way.
- Create a combination of 3 round weaves and 3 square weaves for a unique pattern.
- Finish by stopping the weave when the laces are about 4 inches long.
- Do one last weave without pulling it tight.
- Take each loose lace and wrap it around the lace to its left, then weave it up through the centre of the laces.
- Repeat for all 4 laces and pull tight.
Box Stitch
- Learn the basic box pattern.
- Follow the instructions from the LanYarD YouTube Channel for the 2 x 1 double-sided stitch lanyard pattern.
- Use multiple colours for a unique design.
Lanyards can be used for a variety of purposes, such as securing keys, cell phones, badges, or whistles. They can also be made into bracelets, necklaces, keychains, and other craft decorations.
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Boondoggle lanyard keychains
To get started, you will need a Boondoggle kit, which includes plastic lace in various colours and finishes. It is recommended to get at least two colours for a nice contrast. You can also choose from different finishes like glow-in-the-dark, glitter, translucent, neon, or opaque bright colours. Once you have your supplies, you can begin by cutting the plastic cord to the desired length using a small pair of scissors.
The first step in creating the keychain is to start with the basic two-strand weaves. You can teach the square or box boondoggle first, as it provides a good base for learning other variations. It is a bit tricky, so it may require some help for younger kids. After mastering the basic weave, you can move on to more complex designs.
Once you have completed your weave, don't pull it tight just yet. Take each loose lace and wrap it around the lace to its left, then weave it up through the centre of the laces. Repeat this step for all four laces, and then pull tight. Finally, use a small pair of pliers to attach the lanyard hook to the end of your keychain. And that's it! You now have a colourful and unique keychain that showcases your creativity and personal style.
These keychains can be used for various purposes, such as zipper pulls for backpacks, jackets, or sleeping bags. You can even sell your handcrafted creations or gift them to loved ones. Boondoggle lanyard keychains are a fun and engaging activity that combines creative expression with functionality, resulting in a tangible token of your individuality.
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Choosing the right plastic cord
When choosing the right plastic cord for your design, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the type of project you are undertaking will influence your choice of cord. For example, if you are creating a bracelet, fabric cord is a popular choice due to its stretchiness, durability, and comfort when worn. Fabric cord is also less likely to come untied compared to plastic cord. Additionally, the type of beads or charms you plan to use will determine the size and type of cord you need. If you are using larger beads, opt for a thicker cord that can securely hold the weight. On the other hand, smaller beads with tight holes may require a thinner cord, such as Elastic Floss, which is flexible and ideal for smaller bead holes.
The finish of the plastic cord is another important consideration. Cords come in various finishes, including glow-in-the-dark, glitter, translucent, neon, and opaque bright colors. You can choose to mix and match finishes or stick to a cohesive "finish family" for a coordinated look. The color and finish of the cord can also impact the overall design and visibility of your creation. For instance, clear plastic cord can be useful for attaching charms discreetly.
When selecting a plastic cord, durability is a key factor to ensure your design's longevity. Larger-diameter cords tend to be stronger and more long-lasting. Pre-stretching your cord before use can also help prevent it from loosening over time. To further enhance the durability of your design, consider using a surgeon's knot, which includes an extra half knot, or applying a dab of beading glue to secure the knot.
It is also worth noting that plastic cords may vary in terms of ease of use. Some users find plastic cords more challenging to tie and express concerns about their potential to break easily. In contrast, fabric cords are generally easier to knot and are less likely to come untied. Additionally, certain types of cords, such as Elastic Floss, have a tendency to fray at the tips, requiring additional steps like burning the tips and applying glue to prevent this issue.
Lastly, consider the availability and convenience of your chosen cord. Some cords may offer same-day delivery, which can be a deciding factor if you need the materials urgently. Additionally, certain brands or types of cords may be more readily available at craft stores or online retailers. Therefore, it is advisable to research and compare different options before making your final decision.
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Safety precautions
Safety should always be a priority when creating plastic string designs. Here are some essential precautions to keep in mind:
Understand the Risks
Before beginning any project, it is crucial to be aware of the potential hazards. Working with plastics can expose you to various risks, including chemical exposure, sharp tools, and fire hazards. Understanding these dangers is the first step towards preventing accidents.
Prepare Your Workspace
Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated to minimize the risk of inhaling harmful fumes. Arrange your tools and materials carefully to avoid tripping or accidental injury. Keep your work area tidy and clutter-free to reduce the chances of accidents.
Wear Proper Safety Equipment
Protect yourself by wearing the appropriate safety gear. This may include gloves, safety goggles, a respirator, or a face mask. These precautions will shield you from chemical exposure, sharp objects, and harmful dust or debris.
Know Your Plastics
Not all plastics are created equal. Educate yourself on identifying safe plastics and choosing harmless materials. Opt for plastics that are non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals. Understanding the properties of the plastic you're working with is essential for your safety and the environment.
Learn Basic First Aid
Accidents can happen even with the best precautions. Equip yourself with basic first aid knowledge and keep emergency contact information readily available. Knowing how to respond to an injury or accident can significantly impact the outcome.
Stay Informed
Invest in your safety by taking online courses or tutorials specific to the type of plastic crafting you're undertaking. Understanding the step-by-step process and potential hazards of each stage will help you work more safely.
Remember, safety precautions are an integral part of any plastic string design project. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable crafting experience.
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Frequently asked questions
You can make lanyards, keychains, bracelets, zipper pulls, and handicrafts.
You will need plastic lacing cord, which can come in a variety of colours, finishes, and packs. You will also need scissors and pliers.
You can make plastic string using a PET bottle. You will need a wooden plate, three washers, a screw, a blade from a pencil sharpener, and a knife.
You can make 15-20 meters of plastic string from one 1-liter PET bottle.
