Ethan Clarke
Plastic cards, such as credit, debit, gift, and membership cards, are commonly used for various purposes. However, their disposal can be challenging due to their small size and weight, which makes them unsuitable for household recycling bins. Fortunately, there are several creative ways to recycle or repurpose old plastic cards. Some people opt to cut them into bookmarks or guitar picks, while others use them for DIY projects like crafting stands for phones or notebooks. Additionally, companies like TerraCycle offer paid mail-in recycling programs for PVC cards, and organizations such as Gram Destruction and Earthworks accept plastic cards for recycling.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Recycling options | TerraCycle offers paid mail-in recycling programs for PVC cards. Gram Destruction in Australia also takes plastic cards for recycling. |
| Reuse options | Bookmarks, phone stands, notebooks, doorstops, guitar picks, shoehorns, cheese slicers, art, and more. |
| Hazards of plastic waste | Plastic cards can damage paper being recycled and harm recycling machines if placed in household recycling bins. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic cards can be recycled through specialist companies or mail-in programs
Plastic cards, such as gift cards, credit cards, and hotel keys, are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and cannot be recycled through your household recycling bin. This is because their small size and weight mean they can end up in the paper stream during the automatic sorting process, damaging the paper being recycled and harming the sorting machines.
However, there are several ways to recycle your old plastic cards through specialist companies or mail-in programs. For example, in the US, Earthworks collects plastic cards for recycling. TerraCycle also offers a paid mail-in program for PVC cards, with the Plastic Cards Zero Waste Pouch (large enough for 50 cards) costing $48 and the Plastic Cards Zero Waste Box (capable of holding thousands of cards) starting at $167. To make these options more economically feasible, you could consider collecting cards from neighbours or local businesses.
If you are unable to recycle your plastic cards, there are many ways to repurpose them. For example, you could use them as guitar picks, cheese slicers, or shoehorns.
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They can be used as a shoehorn or cheese slicer
Old plastic cards can be used as a shoehorn, which not only saves you from buying a new one but also prevents you from damaging the back of your shoes. You can also use them as a cheese slicer or knife, especially when you're on a picnic and want to avoid carrying cutlery.
If you're looking for other creative ways to reuse old plastic cards, you can turn them into guitar picks, bookmarks, or even a stand for your phone. Some people have also used them for art or sculptures, creating unique pieces from the different colours and designs of various cards.
While these options give your old cards a new lease of life, it's important to note that they are made of materials like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and can be recycled. Organisations like TerraCycle offer paid mail-in recycling programs for PVC cards, although it can be costly for individuals. Some local schemes or companies, like Gram Destruction in Australia, also accept plastic cards for recycling.
So, while finding alternative uses for old plastic cards is innovative, remember that recycling them ensures they don't end up in landfills and contributes to a more sustainable future.
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They can be cut into bookmarks or guitar picks
Old plastic cards can be cut into bookmarks or guitar picks.
Bookmarks
Turning an old plastic card into a bookmark is as easy as cutting a 'V' into the card. You can also use a laser cutter to cut out the bookmark. Card stock with a thickness of at least 65# is recommended for laser-cut bookmarks. You can also seal your bookmark using modge podge glue and an acrylic sealant aerosol spray to increase its longevity.
Guitar Picks
You can make a homemade guitar pick with an old piece of plastic, a pair of scissors, and a nail file. First, take an old plastic card and use a pencil to draw the triangular outline of a pick on it. Then, cut along the lines with scissors. Finally, scrape a nail file along the edges to smooth them down so they don't scratch or catch on your guitar strings. You can also use a pick punch to turn any material into a pick-shaped cutout.
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They can be used as a stand for your phone
Old plastic cards can be used as a stand for your phone. This is a simple and practical way to reuse your expired cards. You can make a stand for your Android or iPhone by following these steps:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
For this project, you will need a few expired plastic cards. These can include old credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, or any other type of plastic card that you no longer use. Make sure you have a few extras in case you make any mistakes during the process.
Step 2: Cut the Cards
Using scissors or a craft knife, carefully cut the cards to the desired size and shape for your phone stand. You may want to measure your phone's width and length to ensure that the stand will be stable and secure. Be cautious and take your time during this step to avoid any accidental cuts or injuries.
Step 3: Bend the Cards
Gently bend the cut cards to form a triangle or "L" shape, which will serve as the base of your phone stand. You can use a glue gun or strong adhesive to secure the edges and prevent them from slipping. Make sure the structure is stable and sturdy enough to hold your phone's weight.
Step 4: Customise (Optional)
If you want to get creative, you can decorate your phone stand. Consider covering the cards with fabric, washi tape, or paint to give it a personalised touch. You can also leave it as is for a more minimalist look.
Step 5: Assemble the Stand
Once your cards are prepared and decorated, assemble the stand by attaching the pieces together. You can use hot glue or a strong adhesive to secure the joints. Ensure that the stand is stable and can hold your phone securely in a comfortable viewing position.
By following these steps, you can transform your old plastic cards into a functional and unique phone stand. This project is a great way to reduce waste, save money, and add a personal touch to your phone accessories. Enjoy your new phone stand and feel proud of your creativity and contribution to sustainability!
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They can be crafted into art or sculptures
Old plastic cards can be crafted into art or sculptures. For example, Thomas McKean has made a name for himself by creating art and sculptures from expired metro cards. Artists can similarly use expired credit cards to create masterful pieces of art.
You can also use old plastic cards to create a house of cards, gluing them together to make a fun decoration for your house. Playing cards can be used to make a miniature art book, garlands, or gift tags. They can be cut into different shapes and designs to make decorations, or used as embellishments for artist trading cards.
If you're feeling particularly crafty, you can use old plastic cards to make a stand for your smartphone, a bookmark, or even a notebook cover. You can also use them as a shoehorn or an impromptu knife, such as when slicing a pork pie on a picnic.
For those who are environmentally conscious, there are paid mail-in programs for recycling PVC cards. However, it may be more economically feasible to collect cards from neighbours or local businesses.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to reuse plastic cards instead of throwing them away. Some common examples include using them as a bookmark, a phone stand, a shoehorn, or a cheese slicer.
Plastic cards cannot be recycled in household recycling bins. However, there are some companies that offer recycling services for PVC cards, such as TerraCycle and Gram Destruction.
You can ask your bank, library, gym, or other organizations to offer digital membership cards that can be stored on your phone and scanned when needed. Most retailers also offer electronic gift cards that can be redeemed online or in-store by showing a code on your phone.
Old plastic cards can be used for various arts and crafts projects. For example, you can make guitar picks, a doorstop, or a notebook cover. You can also create art or sculptures by collecting cards of different colours.
