Recycling pop and water bottles into flowers
Not a usual “How Can I…” post but I had an email from Jan (who comments as twinks) yesterday about the flowers she makes from old plastic drinks bottles and I thought it was worth a mention.
She says:
These were among the first flowers I made from all those plastic bottles that accumulate in and around our lives. They have become much more sophisticated over time with subtle colouring and more shaping, and they LAST for at least 7 years even outside (that’s how long mine have been outside even through brutal Canadian winters).
She’s written about them on her blog and in case anyone fancies giving it a go themselves, I’ve put some instructions from Jan in the comments section (below).
(Are you, or anyone you know, making art by reusing/recycling random old stuff? If so, let me know and I’ll feature it here.)
- How can I reuse or recycle … plastic milk bottles?
- How can I reuse or recycle … big squash bottles?
- How can I reuse or recycle … shampoo bottles?
- How can I reuse or recycle … plastic bottle tops?
- How can I reuse or recycle … the bumpy bottom of pop bottles?
- How can I reuse or recycle … water cooler bottles?
Cut of tops and bottoms of bottles and make a clean edge.
Divide into sections visually and cut from edge as far down as you can. Shape ‘petals’. Prime and let dry.
Use cap or a cork and insert green garden wire to attach to inside of bottle neck to make stems.
Make fine wire into three or four twisted pieces together, top each with small ‘found’ beads to create the stamins. Insert into cap area.
Paint (acrylics) flower and spray (atomizer please) with acrylic varnish for longer lasting finish if for outdoors.
Hi Jan…
I find this quite fascinating and would love to do this project with my daughter. When you say “prime” and let dry…is there a specific product you use for priming?
Many thanks,
Terri :)
good
One great way to recycle plastic bottles! Aside from plastic containers, we can also reuse or recycled used papers and wood – all we need is the right attitude and correct guidance on how to do it. It is about time to show that we care about the reduction of waste being accumulated annually because of people who do not make an effort to make a difference.