Make an Imitation Ice Vase from a Plastic Bottle

This amazing piece of recycled art & craft will result in a vase that looks just like a chunk of ice. Place it near a window to amaze your friends who will wonder why that block of ice isn't melting!

Steps

  1. Prepare a suitable workspace area. Even though you're not actually burning this bottle, Improve Your Quality of Air You Breathe is absolutely crucial to avoid breathing in any plastic fumes. Work outside on a balcony or porch, or work next to an open window. Wear a respiratory protection mask if you're concerned about breathing in Handle a Household Chemical Emergency; doing this once in a while shouldn't harm your health but it is important to take appropriate precautions.
  2. Find a PET/PETE (recycling type 1) plastic container. The size can range anywhere from 1/2 - 2 liter (16.9 fl oz - 67.6 fl oz). The bottle can be any shape; just use a bottle from a favorite drink.
    • As shown in the image, cut the top quarter of the bottle free from the rest of the container.
  3. Form an image of the ice. Do this using a candle flame; hold the bottle carefully over the candle to heat the surface, moving it as needed. Don't actually touch the flame with the bottle.
    • As shown in the photo, a Make a Seascape With Melted Candle Wax is preferable because it's low and easy to hold the bottle over without knocking it.
  4. Hold the bottle over the candle as long as possible. The rise in temperature will help to create the cloudy surface that gives the impression of ice.
    • A close-up of the surface after heating.
  5. Shape the bottle to ensure its stability as a Make a Lamp out of a Vase. Do this while the bottle is still warm.
  6. Give it a frosty appearance using Make Sandpaper Last Longer. Sand parts of the vase to give it a frosted look, similar to the outside of ice. It's now ready to fill with water and add some flowers!
    • The picture in the introduction shows the effect when blue marbles are added to the vase. They add the sense of ice blue color, making it seem even more like ice. While optional, this is a cool touch.

Tips

  • If any soot appears on the surface, immediately wipe off using a wet cloth.

Warnings

  • Ventilation is crucial when working with plastics and heat; always be well prepared in advance of making the project.
  • Take care to avoid candle burns.

Things You'll Need

  • Plastic bottle (PET:Polyethylene terephthalate) - see Understand the SPI Code for more information
  • Scissors
  • Candle (tealight candle)
  • Sandpaper
  • Wet cloth
  • Cotton work gloves (can not use synthetic) (option)
  • Blue colored marbles (optional)

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Sources and Citations

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