From the page: A thousand colors in a few grams
Idea 5
Fused keychains and magnets
Small fused cap objects were many people's "gateway" into creative reuse, because they use a small quantity and show quick results. It works by the same logic as the plate: the plastic in the caps softens at low heat and, when pressed into a small mold, fills every detail — including the space for the keychain hole.
What you need
- Clean caps in colors that go well together
- Small silicone molds (for candy or ice)
- A home oven
- A skewer stick or a thick nail
- Key rings or fridge magnets with strong glue
- Fine sandpaper
How to make it
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1
Fill the silicone molds with 2 to 4 caps cut into small pieces: smaller pieces melt more evenly than whole caps.
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2
Bake at about 265 °F (130 °C) for 10 to 15 minutes, watching until it becomes a single glossy mass — silicone handles this temperature and makes unmolding easier.
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3
Remove carefully and, while it's still soft, pierce each piece at the top with the skewer: the hot plastic gives way and the hole cools firm enough for the ring.
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4
Let it cool completely and unmold by pulling the silicone sideways — it releases on its own without breaking the piece.
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5
Lightly sand the edges to round them off and give a nice finish.
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6
Attach the ring through the hole for a keychain, or glue the magnet to the back to turn it into a fridge magnet.
Finishing touches
Make initial letters by molding small bits of plastic in a contrasting color inside the mold before fusing. A single batch yields quick gifts for several people.
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