Recycled Plastic Flowers

This activity is ideal elementary school or middle school students!

This activity is a great way to teach your student about the importance of recycling, and find a way to make use of unneeded plastic! Watch as the plastics melt and reshape as the heat of the oven changes their cellular alignment—and get some cute decor for your home in the process!

Materials:

* Clear plastic cups, plates, bowls, etc. with Recycling number 6

* Colorful permanent markers

* Cloth-covered 18 gauge wire for stems

* Glue gun

* Scissors

* Oven

* Baking sheet

* Tin foil

* Pots, floral foam, vases, etc. for display (optional)

Directions: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Color your plastic bowls/cups/plates with colorful permanent markers.

Cut slits in the sides using the scissors. It's best to have an adult do this part since plastic pieces may snap off.

Place the plastic pieces on a foil-covered baking sheet, and bake for 2-5min. Keep an eye on the plastic so it does not overcook. It's also recommended to open a window and/or use a fan because the melting plastic has a strong smell.

Let the flowers cool, then use the glue gun to attach the wire for stems.

Display as desired!

Idea by: Left Brain Craft Brain