From the page: The Tetra Pak gives much more than it seems
Idea 4
Lined wallet and coasters
Folded in several layers, the carton becomes surprisingly rigid and water-resistant, which has made it raw material for wallets and coasters in upcycling workshops around the world — some communities even turn this into income. The inner aluminum layer gives shine and thermal insulation, perfect for resting a hot mug without marking the table.
What you need
- Tetra Pak cartons opened into flat sheets (cut the sides and wash)
- Scissors and ruler
- White glue or fabric glue
- Fabric scraps, decorative contact paper, or thread and needle
- Clothespins
How to make it
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1
Open the cartons into flat sheets and clean them well — the smoother the surface, the nicer the lining looks.
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2
For the wallet: cut a rectangle about 20 x 15 cm, mark the middle and make a center fold, reinforcing the crease with the scissor handle so the aluminum-draped sheet keeps the fold.
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3
Cut a second smaller piece (12 x 15 cm), fold it in half and glue it inside to form the card and bill pockets.
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4
Cover the exterior with the fabric or contact paper, applying thin glue and smoothing from the center toward the edges to avoid bubbles.
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5
For the coasters: cut 10 x 10 cm squares, stack two or three glued layers — more layers mean more insulation from the mug's heat.
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6
Use clothespins while the glue dries for at least 30 minutes, pressing the layers firmly together.
Finishing touches
On the coaster, leave the aluminum side facing up: it reflects light, is waterproof and wipes clean with a damp cloth. On the wallet, a simple running stitch along the edge adds handcrafted charm and reinforces the finish.
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