How to Make a Waste Bin from Recycled Plastic Panels
Recycling plastic waste into practical items, such as waste bins, is an innovative way to reduce landfill contributions and promote sustainable living. Here’s a simple guide to creating a sturdy waste bin from two recycled plastic panels.
Materials Needed:
Plastic films, wrappers, and bags (approximately 3 kg for two panels)
Teflon sheets
Heat press
Mold
Clothes iron (for bonding corners)
Scissors or trimming tool
Step 1: Prepare the Plastic Panels
Follow the steps from the roof panel guide to create two plastic panels.
Each panel will require approximately 1.5 kg of plastic.
Step 2: Drape the Panels Over the Mold
Remove the hot first panel from the press and drape it over the mold to cover the top and two sides.
Remove the Teflon sheet from the top of the panel on the mold.
Create a second panel, remove the Teflon sheet from one side, and drape it over the first panel on the mold.
Step 3: Shape and Cool
- Allow the panels to cool completely while maintaining their shape around the mold. This ensures a sturdy structure.
Step 4: Bond and Trim
Remove the molded panels and use a clothes iron to bond the four corners together on both the inside and outside.
Trim the top edges for a neat finish.
Depending on the panel size, the bin will be approximately 18” tall and 12” square at the bottom for a 48” panel, or 24” tall for a 60” panel.
