I generally refuse to buy plastic bottles and try to never buy water in plastic bottle, but every now and then it’s unavoidable. Because I know that I’ll end up with some every now and then (and will have tons after a clean up!) I am always on the lookout for interesting ways to reuse them. This chandelier is one of my very favorites! It’s simple, easy to make and looks stunning. It’s also a great project for a group if you have a class, coop or family gathering or some sort. Everyone can decorate a bottle or two and then they all come together to make something greater than the sum its parts.
Recycled Bottle Chandelier
You can use plastic bottle of any shape for this project, they should be clear though. If you can’t find a bicycle wheel, try a hula hoop with some cross supports made of wire.
Materials:
- clear recycled plastic bottles washed and dried
- paint: craft or tempera paint are great, nothing fancy
- fishing line or string
- old bicycle wheel
- wire
- chain or wire for hanging
Method:
First make the bottles, pour a little paint into each bottle and swirl it around so that it coats the inside. You can mix colors or keep each bottle a different color. Paint on the outside of the bottle will just flake off so avoid the temptation to paint the outside. If there is excess you can pour it right into another bottle. Repeat until all of your bottles are painted and then allow them to dry.
Attach a hanger onto your bicycle with with wire. (In the picture above I used chain) Hang the wheel someplace where you can reach it and start tying the bottles on. Do this by tying one end of your fishing line or string around the top of the bottle and one onto the bicycle wheel. It’s a good idea to measure the space where the chandelier is going so you know how tall it can be and have an idea of the shape you want the finished chandelier to take. (round? pointed? etc)
Keep tying on bottles until you are pleased with the shape. Hang up your masterpiece and enjoy!