1) Turn a bottle of Coke Light into a… light!
I recently came across some nice examples of jewellery made by melting recycled plastic in the oven – they really sparked my interest in using plastic as part of one of my craft projects. After a bit of trial and error I managed to create the lamp shown above from plastic party bowls, an empty bottle of Coke Light and a biscuit tin.
Although I was happy with the final result, I must confess, the plastic didn’t really behave like I was expecting. Instead of shrivelling and shrinking, the plastic bowls just went all limp and floppy – I think the plastic was too thick. In fact, I was so disappointed with the effect I nearly packed it in. However, after experimenting with the oven temperature I managed to get a bit of gentle twisting and warping, which I used to create a more subtle and elegant effect.
The biscuit tin was used to create the cover to the shade, and galvanised wire to create the light fitting support. Anyway, you’ll find fairly detailed instructions below – I had to gloss across some of the steps, but you should get the idea.
Please note: Because the light shade is made of plastic I’d advise using a low energy bulb – one that doesn’t get too hot. Also, be careful with the wiring – the stand is made of metal so everything needs to be well insulated (not one for the kids)!
Includes:
1) Collectable instructions – they are useful and they look good
204 downloads so far, thanks everyone!
You’ll find another very cool recycled light project, made from a paper takeaway cup, in my new book.
It’s full of detailed (but fun) instructions, and “pro-dad” tips – to get a taste, watch the video below:
Don’t forget to turn the lights off!
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Brilliant & beautiful! Thank you for sharing:)
Your site just makes me grin from ear to ear…. Thanks for sharing your creativity!
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i love creative minds! you gave me an idea for a lamp i’m making with chicken wire. thank you!
I may just have to try this–I love the technique even though the lamp isn’t exactly my style. It would make a great gift! I love your illustrations–absolutely brilliant
To be honest it’s probably not my sort of style either – it just sort of ended up that way! Thanks for the commnent. Scott
What a idea? This is really good use of plastic bottle. I try this my self then tell with other to make this fantastic craft.
Thanks for sharing this amazing idea.
This is retro-divine and your illustrations take the cake. I’ve become a bit biased against plastic bottle crafts due to the atrocities the internet is constantly vomiting up (I think I read too much Regretsy), but you have redeemed them for me!
Ha ha – I know what you mean, there’s so much craft out there it can be tricky to do something that is a bit different, I was a little unsure about my Coke Light at first, so pleased to hear it passes the vomit test! Thanks for the comment. Scott:-)
Hey Scott. I’ve put together a round up of fabulous lighting projects on Craft Gossip today and included your post.
You can see it here
http://homeandgarden.craftgossip.com/6-diy-lighting-ideas/
Fantastic – it looks great! Thanks for the support. Scott
I was sent over here, kicking and screaming, by Diane, of Craftypod fame.
Well, she didn’t force me to come over here, really. And, in fact, I didn’t do any kicking and screaming because the baby’s asleep (she’s a dachshund mix with very big ears).
Okay, actually, I came over here of my own free will. When I saw that caterpillar in the photo she posted, I decided to ask you to send me one.
Thank you.
Chris
Ha ha – thank you! I wish I had a spare caterpillar, I’d definitely send you one -in recognition of your wonderfully quirky comments! Scot:-)
Glamarama!! I ♥ it!
If you want plastic that shrinks you can either buy shrinky dinks or you can recycle plastic (which is probably what you were aiming for) but the recycled plastic has to be number 6. Plastic carry out containers from the supermarket, like the containers they put their cookies and birthday cakes in are usually number 6. If you look on the bottom it should be stamped somewhere. That plastic works great for oven shrinking! I actually just made myself necklace out of some of it. I cut a rectangular piece out and had my daughter draw on it (you have to use permanent markers, like sharpies), punched a hole in it, shrunk it and put it on a chain! Now I have one of masterpieces around my neck at all times!
Awesome job as always though! When are you going to be opening your shop?
Hi Nell, Thanks for the info regarding oven shrinkable plastics – I’ll keep a look out for the No. 6! Scott
Oh. Em. Effin. Gee.
This is crazy good. Cookie for you! A splendid idea beautifully presented.
Hi Aunt Peaches! Thanks for the comment – I’m really pleased that you like it, especially as you do such nice work using plastic yourself. BTW I love your blog, it’s great, and your use of plastic was one of the reasons I decided to have a go myself! Scott:-)
oh man this is great! You should have posted a pic of how it looks when lit, i’m sure it’s lovely.
Thanks Jessica – I do have a shot of it lit, but I thought the photo was a bit grainy so decided not to include it. I’ll have another look at it though, I might be being too fussy! Scott:-)
OMG! Awesome webdesign, cool project, super cool sketches. wow.
Thank you. Please stay tuned, I have some interesting future projects planned. Scott:-)
Wow, this is beautiful! One of my favorite plastic-bottle crafts ever!
Thanks Diane, I thought it was time for a less frivolous project, I’m glad you like it. Scott:-)
O want one to!
Thanks Janice, when’s your birthday! Scott:-)