From the page: Styrofoam that turns into creative gold
Idea 6
Insulated fruit box
Styrofoam was created precisely because it is full of still air, which conducts heat very slowly — that's why it keeps the cold inside and the heat outside. A homemade cooler with trays is a classic technique of fishermen and market vendors, who needed to preserve food without spending on expensive equipment.
What you need
- 2 or 3 styrofoam trays of the same size (one will be the lid)
- Craft knife or fine saw knife
- White glue or silicone glue
- Masking tape or strong adhesive tape
- Ruler and pencil
How to make it
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1
Choose the deepest tray to be the base and set one aside as the lid — the depth guarantees space for ice and fruit without cramming.
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2
Close the sides and bottom with a second layer of styrofoam glued on the outside: each layer of still air created is one more barrier against heat.
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3
Line the inside with a clean plastic bag, folding the edges outward and securing with tape — this prevents the water from the ice from dripping through the corners.
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4
Cut the lid with a "flap" that fits over the top, or use the whole tray turned upside down: the more closed the box, the slower the ice melts.
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5
Test with ice and a heavy piece of fruit before final use, checking that the base doesn't give way — the weight needs to be distributed on the bottom, not the sides.
Finishing touches
paint the exterior with acrylic paint or cover it with fabric to hide the industrial look and harmonize with the kitchen. Store away from sunlight: light and heat are the biggest enemies of preservation.
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