What to do with your #4 plastic?

There are some things in life that are just so simple that it astounds me how entertaining it can be.  Like melting plastic, for example.  I have wanted to fuse plastic for a long time because I simply love recycling/reusing materials and I adore all the cute items I see made with it.  Really, just search "fused plastic" on Etsy and see what you get.  It's funky and waterproof.  Perfect.  And we have a HUGE sack of plastic shopping bags that go unused.


I am, sadly, without a sewing machine.  I haven't really committed to being here for the long haul so I haven't wanted to make the investment.  I am also too lazy to do a lot of hand sewing.  This is how I ended up with christmas light covers.  I just fused about four layers of plastic together (the bags are rather thick, use 6-8 layers for thin bags) then cut out the shapes afterwards. I wrapped each around a light and stapled it together at the opening. I think they are wonderful.  A bit whimsical without being too cutesy.  I have them, for the time being, hanging in one long strip vertically in the kitchen.  


There are numerous tutorials spread about the web on how to fuse plastic, so I will save myself the energy of posting one and just refer you [here] or, if you prefer to learn by video go [here].  It's seriously easy.  Don't forget to work in a well ventilated area.  Even though I didn't smell anything, I won't pretend that fumes weren't floating all around me.