Alexei Volkov
Plastic containers are an essential part of everyday life, but they are generally designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. Luckily, there are many ways to transform these plain containers into something pretty and decorative. Whether you're looking to upcycle plastic food containers or decorate a transparent storage bin, a touch of creativity and some basic materials can go a long way. From using patterned paper, cloth, or duct tape to adding craft jewels and flowers, the possibilities are endless for making your plastic containers both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Paper, stickers, patterned cloth, duct tape, ink stamps, craft jewels, flowers, paint, ribbon, clay, silicone molds, textured stone spray, vinyl, fabric, flat stones, shells, wicker, bamboo |
| Techniques | Paper mache, lining, painting, decoupage, gluing, drilling, hot glue gun |
| Considerations | Durability, weather-resistance, toxicity, fading, chipping, ventilation, eye protection |
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What You'll Learn
Use patterned paper or cloth
Using patterned paper or cloth is a great way to decorate a plastic container. This method can be used to make transparent containers opaque and to add a unique design to your plastic container.
If you want to use patterned paper, first cut out enough paper to line the container. Smooth out the paper and apply a layer of mod podge to both the paper and the inside of the container. Then, stick the paper to the plastic and apply another coat on top, ensuring the paper remains smooth. You can also use book pages or magazine cut-outs for a unique design.
If you want to use patterned cloth, first find a cloth pattern that matches your style and cut out enough to cover the container, leaving enough to wrap around the sides. Use spray adhesive or a paintbrush to apply a layer of mod podge to the back of the cloth and the plastic container, then press the cloth onto it, smoothing out any wrinkles. As it sets, apply another layer of mod podge over the top and let it dry. For a neat finish, cut up the sides of the fabric where it overlaps at the corners, then fold these pieces over each other, creating a seam.
You can also use adhesive-backed fabric or fabric with a pattern that can be patched together if you are unable to find a large enough piece of fabric. Try to tie the patterned cloth into the room itself, such as using polka-dotted fabric in a room with polka-dotted wallpaper or zebra-striped cloth in a room with black and white furniture.
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Decorate with duct tape
Duct tape is a versatile, quick, and inexpensive way to decorate plastic containers. It comes in a wide variety of colours and patterns, allowing you to add personality to your containers without adding bulk.
To decorate a plastic container with duct tape, start by finding a pattern or colour of duct tape that you like. Then, simply press the tape onto the container. For small and portable containers, a small amount of duct tape will be enough to add personality without bulk.
You can also use duct tape to decorate and create storage containers out of recycled materials. For example, you can cover an empty plastic tub with duct tape to create a storage container and give new life to old containers.
Additionally, duct tape can be combined with other decorative elements such as stencils, spray paint, stickers, scrapbooking paper, and buttons to create unique and stylish designs.
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Add craft jewels and flowers
Adding craft jewels and flowers to plastic containers is a great way to give them some flair. You can use hot glue or a bedazzling gun to attach the jewels and flowers to the plastic container. If you don't have enough jewels or flowers to create a uniform pattern, try arranging them in small shapes or designs, such as a heart or a smiley face.
You can also use fake flowers to decorate your plastic containers. Cut the bottom off a plastic container and cut grooves where the petals will go. Then, fold the plastic to form a flower shape. Trim the edges of the petals to round them off. Cover the flowers with mod podge and crepe paper, and make the stems and leaves in the same way. Once the flowers are dry, trim off the excess paper, glue the skewer with the leaves to the back of the flower, and glue a cardboard circle or bottle cap to the centre.
Another way to decorate plastic containers is to use patterned paper to line the container. Smooth out the paper and apply a layer of mod podge to both the paper and the inside of the container. Stick the paper to the plastic and apply another coat of mod podge on top, ensuring the paper remains smooth. Try to use colours that match the container's environment, such as bright pastels for a baby room or light, muted colours for a kitchen.
You can also use paint to decorate your plastic containers. Wash your container with dish soap and warm water. Once it's dry, gently sand the surface with 220 to 300-grit sandpaper, then wipe it down with rubbing alcohol. Use painter's tape to cover any areas you don't want to paint, then apply a coat of primer to the container.
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Use ink stamps to press patterns
Using ink stamps to press patterns onto plastic containers is a great way to decorate them and make them look pretty. This method can give your container an old-school feel, and you can create unique patterns and designs with different ink stamps.
When using ink stamps, it is important to press the stamp firmly onto the container to ensure that the ink sets evenly. You can find a variety of ink stamps at craft stores or online, with common designs including hearts, religious symbols, fruits, and simple animals. Try to choose a design that matches the container's environment or purpose. For example, if you are decorating a container for a baby's room, you might choose a stamp with a cute animal design.
To ensure the best results when using ink stamps on plastic containers, it is recommended to use permanent ink or ink specifically designed for use on plastic surfaces. Regular ink may not dry properly on plastic, resulting in a weak or transparent imprint. Solvent ink or pigment ink, such as the Faber-Castell Ecco Pigment, can be effective options for plastic surfaces. However, keep in mind that manually applying pigment to the stamp can be tedious.
Additionally, consider using a stamp pad to apply the ink to the stamp. The #1250 all-purpose air-dry ink is a good option for stamp pads and can create waterproof imprints on plastic surfaces. Alternatively, you can use the #628 ink, which is available in vivid colours and provides excellent adhesion to most non-porous surfaces.
By following these suggestions, you can effectively use ink stamps to press patterns onto plastic containers, creating unique and aesthetically pleasing storage solutions for your home or workspace.
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Paint with a faux stone finish
Painting plastic containers with a faux stone finish is a great way to recycle and create something beautiful. This method works well for flower pots and planters, giving them a classy, hefty, and pricey look.
Firstly, you will need to prepare your work area and gather your materials. This project is best done outside, as the paint dries quicker with better air circulation. You will need a plastic container, sandpaper, newspaper, paintbrushes, primer, paint in various shades of grey, white, and black, and a clear varnish or sealer.
Before you begin painting, ensure your container is clean. Gently sand the surface of the container with sandpaper to create a rough texture that will help the paint adhere better. You can then use a damp cloth to wipe down the container with rubbing alcohol. Use painter's tape to cover any areas you do not want to paint, such as the rim or base.
Now you are ready to start painting. Apply a coat of primer to the container and let it dry. For a stone-like finish, you can use a sponge to apply the paint in a random, textured pattern. Start by mixing a small amount of white paint with water in a plastic bucket. Dab your sponge into the paint and then remove most of it by dabbing it onto a piece of cardboard or foil. Practice your technique on the interior of the planter until you are happy with it. Then, lightly dab and overlap the paint onto the surface of the planter, leaving some areas unpainted or grey.
Once the white paint is dry, repeat the process with black paint. Dip your paintbrush into the black paint and lightly tap it over the planter to create a splatter effect. This will give the container a stone-like appearance. If you are keeping your planter outdoors, consider finishing it with a clear varnish to protect the paint.
There are many ways to decorate plastic containers, including using patterned duct tape, ink stamps, craft jewels, and paper or cloth. Painting is a versatile method that allows for creativity and unique designs.
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Frequently asked questions
Cover the plastic container with a layer of Mod Podge, then press a piece of patterned paper or cloth into it. Apply another layer of Mod Podge over the top and let it dry.
Wash your container with dish soap and warm water. When dry, gently sand the surface with sandpaper, then wipe it down with rubbing alcohol. Use painter’s tape to cover areas you don’t want to paint, then apply a coat of primer and paint.
Start by sanding your container with fine-grit sandpaper to roughen the surface. Next, mould your clay and glue it onto the container, leaving it to dry overnight. Finally, apply a few light coats of spray paint to create a faux stone appearance.
Find a pattern of duct tape you like and press it onto the container. For small containers, a small amount of duct tape will add personality without bulk.
Use hot glue or a bedazzling gun to attach craft jewels, fake flowers, shells, or other small objects to your container.
