One minute you’re cutting acrylic sheets, the next, you’re overrun with off-cuts you have no use for. Or at least, you didn’t before.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to repurpose plastic sheet material, whether you’re handy with tools or a complete beginner. These are some of our top picks.
1. A terrarium or greenhouse
While found at complete opposite ends of the scale size-wise, terrariums and greenhouses are functionally similar— and both can be made by repurposing clear acrylic.
If you’re new to upcycling, start small. To create your own terrarium, you’ll need clear plastic sheets, glue, masking tape, a saw, a couple of hinges, and a file if you’re working with rough edges. Then all you need to do is glue the sheets in place and tape them together to dry. It’s so quick you’ll spend more time arranging the plants inside.
A greenhouse is a more significant project, but a rewarding one nonetheless. For a full-sized greenhouse, you’ll need to construct a foundation with hardwood posts, anchor it, construct a frame then build up. But that’s not to say you can’t build a similar, smaller structure with what you’ve got. It will still do a good job of protecting your plants from the elements and those pesky garden pests.
2. A tabletop
Acrylic sheets are a great alternative to glass for table tops. For one, they’re more affordable, especially if you already have offcuts available. And they’re more durable, too.
Acrylic is strong, scratch resistant and easy to wipe clean, making it ideal for tables outside and in. You could even place it on top of wood for an extra protective surface — or if you’re feeling ambitious, find some table legs of your own to build a whole new table.
3. Shelving
You can make shelving out of acrylic sheets in all shapes and sizes. Cut the perfect fit for the unused nooks and crannies in your home, or find a frame for a hanging or free-standing unit.
A popular choice is pairing clear acrylic with metal brackets for a versatile, modern look, but there are so many ways to get creative with a completely unique design. Try alternating different coloured sheets, or coordinating with the rest of your space.
Just remember to choose acrylic of the correct thickness for the desired weight. Heavier items like books and vases will naturally need more support than a few trinkets and picture frames.
4. Coasters
Making coasters couldn’t be easier, with no sticking or assembling required. Either choose acrylic sheets that are already coloured or try your hand at spray painting. Painting aside, you’ll just need to cut the acrylic to size and file down any sharp edges.
Your finished coasters will be enough to jazz up any coffee table. They also make great gifts.
5. Jewellery and accessories
Left with a few smaller, awkwardly shaped scraps after you’ve finished other bits of upcycling around the house? You can still find a use for them. Acrylic sheets can be easily transformed into statement earrings, hair clips, necklaces and key rings. Often it’s as simple as drilling a hole and adding earring hooks or a clasp.
Plastics Plus — your plastic sheet distributors
At Plastics Plus, we supply high-quality acrylic plastic sheets for all kinds of applications. Our sheets are renowned for durability and reliability, so whatever creation you’re working on, you know it’s built to last.
There are also plenty of tints, colours and sizes to choose from, meaning you’ll always find the right fit for your requirements. And if not, we’ll make it for you.
If you’re not sure exactly what you need, get in touch with our knowledgeable team for some guidance.