The excessive use of plastic has led to a significant accumulation of plastic waste, causing harm to the environment. Based on the 2023 Nusantara River Affairs Research Agency [BRUIN] census conducted at 64 points in 28 districts and cities in 13 provinces, plastic waste is still a big problem in Indonesia. During the census, volunteers collected 25,733 pieces of plastic waste, with sachet packaging being the most prevalent type.

This plastic waste problem, if not managed properly, will cause more serious problems. Plastic waste polluting the environment threatens the lives of river and ocean biota in addition to destroying natural beauty. We must tackle plastic waste creatively, and recycling is one viable solution.

Process Plastic Waste with Recycling

One of the first solutions that comes to mind when discussing plastic waste is recycling. This solution not only helps reduce plastic waste but is also a creative opportunity to produce various unique and useful crafts.

Used plastic can be processed into various crafts using various techniques, such as cutting, sewing, knitting, and melting. Creativity and imagination are the main keys to producing crafts from plastic waste.

5 Unique Craft Ideas from Plastic

There are many unique craft ideas from used plastic that you can make yourself at home with simple tools and materials. Here are five unique craft ideas that you can try.

1. Piggy Bank from a Plastic Bottle

Plastic bottles used for drinks or cleaning fluids that are usually thrown away after use can be made into piggy banks. First of all, wash the used plastic bottle until it is clean and dry it. Second, make a small hole to insert money into the top of the bottle using a knife or cutter. Finally, you can decorate the plastic bottle according to your taste with paint, ribbon, or other materials.

1. Shopping Bags from Used Plastic

You can make shopping bags from used plastic packaging for instant noodles, snack wrappers, coffee wrappers, and even detergent wrappers. First of all, wash the used plastic packaging and dry it. After that, cut it lengthwise with a width of about 2 cm. Knit or weave the plastic pieces into fabric sheets, then sew the plastic fabric sheets into the desired bag shape.

1. Coin Purse from Food Wrap

Coin purses are a unique and easy craft idea to make from used plastic food wrappers. After washing and drying, cut the plastic food wrap to the desired shape and size. Fold the plastic piece in half and attach it with glue or sewing for a stronger wallet connection. You can also add a zipper to the top of the wallet for a more polished look.

2. Pencil Case from Plastic Bottle

Who would have thought that used plastic bottles usually thrown away could be turned into cute and unique pencil cases? The process of making it is also simple. Prepare used plastic bottles that have been washed and dried. Use sharp scissors to cut the top of the plastic bottle to the desired height, then smooth the edges using sandpaper. Decorate your plastic bottle pencil case with acrylic paint, markers, or stickers to make it more attractive.

3. Hydroponic Containers from Plastic Bottles

Used plastic bottles, with their varied shapes, are very suitable for being used as hydroponic containers. It's really easy to make. Cut the top of a used plastic bottle that has been washed and dried. Use a nail or knife to make several small holes in the bottle cap for the plant roots to come out and get oxygen.

Insert the top of the bottle into the bottom in an inverted position. The upside-down top of the bottle will function as a net pot and plant container. You can start hydroponic planting by inserting the hydroponic planting medium into the net pot until it is ¾ full, then carefully planting the hydroponic plant seeds into the hole in the planting medium.

By creatively using the materials and tools you have at home, you can produce unique and useful crafts from used plastic. Let's help protect the environment by recycling plastic and transforming it into beautiful, functional works of art.