Materials + Supplies:
• Small Plastic Containers
Tools:
• Razor Blade / Utility Knife
• Sandpaper
Size: 4" x 4" x 3" high
Color: Amber SmartColor Pigment
Technique: Packed
Rather than recycle your used plastic containers, why not use them to make small planters?
With ShapeCrete it's quick and easy to make your own unique planters.
STEP 1: Supplies
STEP 2: Mix
Mix ShapeCrete to a Clay-Like Consistency. You can add pigment if you want to make it colored.
STEP 3: Pack
Pack the mix in the bottom of the container first, then work it up the sides. Smooth the top flat with a trowel to give the top edge an even surface. Cover with plastic and cure for 24 hours.
STEP 4: Demold
Before cutting open the form, sand the top edge with a diamond hand pad or sandpaper. This will help prevent chipping on the top edge.
Slit the plastic with a razor blade, utility knife, or scissors. Then gently peel the plastic away.
STEP 5: Drill a Hole (Optional)
It's easy to drill holes in ShapeCrete with a masonry bit, but you can also make a hole in the bottom of the piece when you're packing the mix in.
Plastic Comparison:
It's interesting to see the difference between these two types of plastic. On the left is PLA (Polylactic acid), which is biodegradeable, and has a more matte surface finish. On the right is PET (Polyethelyne terephthalate), which has a very glossy finish. Different types of plastics will give different surface finishes, even if they both look perfectly smooth.
The Finished Pieces: