Projects
What are you gonna make today? How about a Peanut Butter Pencil Holder and Paperweight Set.
This project was inspired by the recent Save My Oceans contest, in which contestants were instructed to upcycle plastic to keep it out of the ocean. I've always believed most of the objects in our everyday experience can have a second life and often spend time thinking about how to reuse something long after it's original intent has passed. When I saw the shape of peanut butter jar, as well as the size of the lid I knew it would make an interesting "holder" and paperweight. Once I began to look at the natural-tone of the brown lid I thought of sand and how it might complement the lid color.
I thought the use of sand would be a daily reminder of how I was keeping plastic out of the ocean. The finished project also reminds me of special times and beach trips with friends and family. Plus who doesn't want to have all of their pencils in one place!
Click the photos below for instructions.
First, I enlisted some help with the project. I didn't want to waste anything, including the little bits of peanut butter in the jar! My dogs were the perfect assistants for this task.
After you have cleaned all of the components start with your empty lid, clean the lid and fill the lid with Pour Stone Anchoring Cement. Follow the package instructions to ensure you prepare the cement correctly. Carefully add the cement to the lid and allow to sit for at least 20 minutes. The cement should cure (fully harden) over night.
Fill the lid just to the top, you don't want the cement to run over the sides. Make sure the lid dries (cures) on a flat surface.
If you can't find the Anchoring Cement, I've also used Stepping Stone Mix for this project.
Adding a layer of white craft paint on the inside of the jar makes the perfect background for the sand on the outside.
Next add the sand to the jar with Mod Podge. I like to use an old shell as my sand scooper. If the weather is nice enough you might be able to complete this project at the beach, but if you don't have access to sand consider the alternative which could include colored sand!
Sprinkle on the sand. If you've "glittered" something before it's the same concept. Work over a piece of paper, so you can capture and reuse any sand that falls from the project.
Use a small craft brush to remove any of the excess sand from the project. Continue adding the Mod Podge and sand around the jar.
Allow one sand band to set for a minute or two and begin working on the next layer in the design.
To finish the paperweight, add the sand to the recessed area of the lid with a generous amount of Mod Podge. You might even opt to add a photo or fabric to the front instead of sand. Use a circular paper cutter to get the right fit.
What to see previous projects? Click the links below:
