Upcycle An Empty Plastic Water Bottle For Charming Countertop Storage

Are you struggling for new countertop storage in your kitchen or bathroom? You may have the solution waiting right in your recycling bin: a water bottle. Don't toss that bottle yet! With only a few decorative elements, you can transform that empty water bottle into a charming countertop storage option. Once finished, it's perfect for holding everything currently jockeying for space on your counters, from spoons to beauty needs. 

Repurposing plastic bottles around your home like this is a great way to expand your storage, especially in tight spaces like a bathroom. This DIY project relies on only the bottom of the bottle as well, so you aren't limited to storing only objects that can fit inside the small opening. You don't need a lot of expensive crafting materials either, so this can be good for a beginner crafter. You'll use decoupage and air-dry clay to decorate the plastic bottle, and when you're done, your guests won't even know it ever held water. This versatile DIY can be customized easily to match your space, with endless options for color and accessories. You'll also turn a piece of single-use plastic into a multi-use item, and what can be better than that? With that in mind, here's how to take your plastic water bottle from waste to a storage essential in the bathroom or kitchen.  

You'll start with a water bottle, preferably 12 ounces or larger, to allow for ample storage. You could also try this DIY by reusing a soda bottle. Also needed are a piece of cardboard, air-dry clay, white tissue paper, white acrylic paint, decoupage paper napkins, wood glue, and cutting tools. You'll also need acrylic varnish or Mod Podge. Make sure your bottle is well-rinsed and dried, especially if you add drink flavorings, as sugars from these may linger and could attract pests. Once clean, you can cut it into two pieces, setting aside the top piece. Only the bottom will be transformed into a clever storage option for now.

Measure the bottom half's width, then cut a cardboard circle to the same size. Cut a second circle, slightly smaller than the first, then glue together. Now it's time for the decoration. If working with wood glue, you can thin it with water or apply Mod Podge directly to the plastic surface, then add the tissue paper. Cover the tissue by brushing it with a coat of the acrylic paint. After it dries, you can cover the surface of the bottle and the glued cardboard with the decoupage napkins, which will be your lid. You will then shape a decorative border for your container with the air clay, either freehand or using a pre-made mold, such as a MMDOCO Clay Texture Mold. Sculpt and decorate your border as you like for the top and bottom. As an optional finishing touch, you can add a bit of sparkle with an application of gold pigment powder or glitter.

While you're exploring this creative way to use decoupage in your home, don't be afraid to personalize your final piece. If you'd like to use this decorative container in your kitchen, consider matching the theme to the space. Try a set of napkins featuring recipe prints, old seed labels, or vintage art of vegetables. You could also cover it simply in checkered or plaid fabric, especially if you have a country kitchen aesthetic. Use the container to store small packages of sugar, measuring spoons, or even extra utensils. If setting it in the bathroom, try florals or a seashell theme. It's perfect for stashing cotton balls and cotton swabs. Don't use the lid, and you can make it into a glamorous makeup brush holder, perhaps even gluing some fake gems for a dazzling accent.

You don't need to use clay to sculpt decorations either. Instead, try a border of wide gold ribbon, faux pearl strings, or, for a rustic look, twine. Even better, dig in your scrap basket for odds and ends to turn into decor. The beauty of this project is your water bottle is a blank canvas ready to be reborn with style and function for your space. Just make sure you keep it out of the splash zone in your kitchen or bathroom, as water could ruin the decoupage unless it's properly sealed.