Egg cartons tend to accumulate, leaving you pondering their fate. While paper egg cartons can be recycled or composted, why not transform them into something new and exciting? Sure, using one to organize your fridge is an option, but you likely have more lying around. What if we told you there’s a creative way to repurpose these cartons into charming flower pots?
This DIY project is perfect because paper egg cartons are made from pulped paper. With a bit of creativity, you can break them down into a clay-like paste and reshape them into something entirely fresh. The process is simple and enjoyable. Besides the egg cartons, you’ll need water, a blender, flour, and a pinch of salt. Follow the right steps to make a paste that molds like papier-mâché. Add some colors and patterns, and you’ll create beautiful, eco-friendly flowerpots that are as stylish as they are sustainable. Let’s get started!
How to turn egg cartons into a papier-mâché pot
@sibster_made
Paper clay is one of my favorites. We have made it in several ways, but for bowls, I stick to this recipe. First, soak two entire egg cartons in water for a few hours. Then, blend them and squeeze out most of the water. Add about one cup of flour and a sprinkle of salt, then knead it until it forms a dough-like consistency. If your clay is too dry, add small amounts of water. If too runny, add more flour. The flour and water form a paste, which I prefer over using glue like in other papier-mâché projects. Once the clay is the right consistency, line some bowls with compostable cling wrap. Without it, the clay may stick to the bowl. As the clay dries, it shrinks slightly, allowing you to remove it from the mold. Once dry, I paint them white (optional) to seal and strengthen them. Finally, I coat them with Mod Podge and decorate them with a napkin by separating the layers to the top decorative one. Once dry, they’re perfect for holding crayons and small art supplies. However, they’re not food-safe, just decorative. #paperclay #paperclayrecipe #paperclayart #trashintoart
♬ Settle Down (Acoustic) – Woodlock
To try this hack, begin by tearing two egg cartons into small pieces and soaking them in water for a few hours or overnight. Once softened, transfer the paper to a blender, add a little extra water, and blend into a pulp. Drain and squeeze out excess water using a cheesecloth for efficiency.
Next, transform the pulp into clay by adding a quarter cup of water, a cup of flour, and a sprinkle of salt. The flour absorbs moisture, and the salt prevents mold. Knead the mixture until it reaches a workable dough consistency, adjusting water and flour as needed.
Now, choose your shape: a bowl, pot, or any form you prefer. Line it with plastic wrap to prevent sticking. Press and shape the clay around your mold, smoothing it as you go. Once dry, remove it and add paint or decorative napkins for a patterned finish. This versatile hack allows for endless creativity—perhaps a papier-mâché vase for your flowers. Let your imagination soar!
