Tutorial - How to Flatten a Plastic Cup (Part 2 - Cut, Tape & Hole Punch)

In Part 1 I showed you several of my creative designs that I made repurposing plastic cups or containers into various fun things.  I also provided detailed instructions on how to flatten the plastic cup/container with heat using an iron.

So for Part 2, I will show you how to cut, tape and hole punch the plastic cup/container.  Why do I tape it?  Because whether you are making a notepad,  crocheting around or any other craft project, the ink will eventually fade or scratch off.  The tape protects the ink.

Let's get started - you will need the following items:

• Scissors or Desktop Paper Cutter
• Clear Tape or Clear Shelf Paper
• Hole puncher of choice ...(I absolutely love the Bind It All puncher)
  

 

1. Cutting:

Make the first cut on one side to flatten an edge.  





 

 

Turn the cup/container to even cut the top edge.

 

Turn the cup/container to even cut the other side.

 

Turn the cup to even cut the bottom edge.  You cup/container should now be completely even all around.

 

 

 

2.  Taping:

 

Before taping, I encourage you to wipe the container front and back with a clean damp cloth.  From my experience, good and bad, believe me the tape will pick up everything - stray hair, finger prints, etc.. even things you didn't know was there.



 

Starting at one edge slowly lay the tape down over the plasic cup/container to the other side using your fingers to squeeze out any air bubbles. 

Important note - once you lay the plastic down, unless it is a white background, I would not suggest lifting the tape up completely because it will remove the ink.  If you lift the tape up, do it slowly in a small section so you can easily put it back down in the same spot.  

Cover the cup/container completely front and back. 

 

 

This is the time you will want to size down the cup/container based on your intended design. 

 



3.  Hole Punching:

 

Using the tool of choice, depending on whether you want round or square holes, begin punching holes evenly spaced around.  That is why I like the Bind It All puncher because it evenly spaces the holes and is alot faster than if I punched the holes myself. 

 

When finished, you can leave the squared corners or round them depending on your project design.