Shrink Plastic
This was a project I had on my to-do list for months, just waiting for some #6 plastic to come along in the kitchen. Imagine my glee when I realized I had dozens of lids made of just the right stuff that had come with the foil bakeware I’ve been using to stock the freezer! #6 Plastic is typically found in clear, thin lids like these that come on takeout containers, and it’s what the infamous Shrinkydinks of the 80′s were made of.
I cut a flat piece, gave Eloise a quick lesson on the seriousness of a permanent marker, then let her have at it. I may pick up some colored Sharpies for future projects, but black worked for today. Ignore any small grooves in the plastic, as those will vanish in the shrinking process.
I cut a hole for hanging, then it went into the oven on a piece of foil at 350 degrees. We both watched with excitement as it curled up, shrank to a fraction of its previous size, and flattened back out again. The whole process takes only 60 seconds or so, and then it should be removed by an adult and pressed flat in the few seconds before it cools. It will then be not only smaller, but much thicker and harder, too.
These could be pendants, ornaments, gift tags, wine charms… I found myself making a few too many of my own once she had lost interest!
7 comments
Oh, cool!!
This might possibly be your best tip yet!
What a great idea! I’ll definitely keep an eye out for #6 plastic. Thanks for the detailed information too–not much use if we don’t know exactly what kind of plastic to use.
Styrofoam plates work too!
From a grade 2/3 teacher and a previous daycare worker.
[...] Childhood 101: 12 Days of Christmas Garland Skip To My Lou: Christmas Crafts thelongthread: 10 Minute Santa Ornament Learning Vicariously: Shrink Plastic [...]
no way! I had no idea you could shrink #6. I need to go through the recycling bag again. My kiddos LOVE shrinky dinks and who know I could re-use something instead of buying a special product. Thanks!
I loved Shrinky Dinks as a Child and I had no idea you could do this with lids. To think I have tossed so many away from my Chinese Food – URGH. I must now check all my lids and get crafting. Love this !!
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