---
title: Lampshade from Recycled Bottle Caps
slug: lampshade-from-recycled-bottle-caps
description: ## How to Bend a Plastic Sheet Without Heat or Mold

This guide demonstrates bending a plastic sheet using a method inspired by the woodworking technique known as kerfing, which bends wood without water or steam.
tags: ["HDPE"]
category: Products
difficulty: Medium
time: < 1 day
location: Cikarang, Indonesia
---
import { Image } from 'astro:assets'
# Lampshade from Recycled Bottle Caps
<Image src={import('./lampshade-186bab11dd7.jpg')} alt="Lampshade from Recycled Bottle Caps" />
## How to Bend a Plastic Sheet Without Heat or Mold

This guide demonstrates bending a plastic sheet using a method inspired by the woodworking technique known as kerfing, which bends wood without water or steam.

User Location: Cikarang, Indonesia
## Steps
### Step 1: Prepare all the materials and tools

Requirements:
- HDPE plastic board:
  - 11.8 in x 4.1 in, 0.2 in (thickness)
  - ⌀3.7 in, 0.2 in (thickness)
- Portable sanding machine
- Soldering iron
- Table saw
- Rope


<Image src={import('./1-186ba254193.jpg')} alt="1-186ba254193.jpg" />

### Step 2: Score the plastic

First, use the table saw to score the plastic. Cut to a depth of 0.12 inches (3 mm), maintaining a 0.20-inch (5 mm) gap between each cut. Ensure the board is scored perpendicular to the bend direction.


<Image src={import('./2-186ba25e82d.png')} alt="2-186ba25e82d.png" />

### Step 3: Thin out the end sides of the plastic board

Thin the edges of the plastic board using a portable sander for a better fit in the subsequent step.


<Image src={import('./3-186baadba45.png')} alt="3-186baadba45.png" />

### Step 4: Bend it

Now bend it with care. Secure it using a rope.


<Image src={import('./4a-186ba278eb1.png')} alt="4a-186ba278eb1.png" />


<Image src={import('./4b-186ba27a02a.png')} alt="4b-186ba27a02a.png" />

### Step 5: Weld the end pieces of plastic

### Instructions for Soldering Plastic

Using a soldering iron, securely weld the plastic end pieces together. Ensure the bond is strong.


<Image src={import('./5a-186ba28457e.png')} alt="5a-186ba28457e.png" />


<Image src={import('./5b-186ba28645a.png')} alt="5b-186ba28645a.png" />

### Step 6: Smooth out the welded part

To achieve an even surface, use the sanding machine to smooth the welded section.


<Image src={import('./6-186ba28d230.png')} alt="6-186ba28d230.png" />

### Step 7: Done!

## Completed Lampshade

Your lampshade is finished.


<Image src={import('./7-186ba29536d.png')} alt="7-186ba29536d.png" />