Turn An Old Plastic Container Into Unique Light-Up Decor With A Whimsical Twist

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If you have some spare plastic containers lying around and you're not sure what to do with them, consider turning them into creative little lights that add both whimsy and ambience to any room. This is just one more reason you shouldn't throw out those plastic containers. What we love about this project by Instagram user @handsandsoul_ is that it is super simple, and you can get creative with it depending on the container and the lights you choose. This craft is similar to the illuminating mason jar hacks that light up your home, which you'll see all over crafting sites. These, however, may be slightly more durable, since you don't risk broken glass if they are bumped off a counter. The idea is to add lights inside a container, flip it, and have it glow with a starry effect.

At a minimum, you will need a plastic container with a lid, craft glue or a hot glue gun, a chopstick, fairy lights, and star film. Star film is a plastic-based craft film with stars on it. You can buy MECCANIXITY Holographic Glitter Star Film in multiple colors on Amazon, adding even more whimsy and possibilities to this creative project. Taller plastic containers are best for this project, but any clear plastic container will work, even if it has a hint of color. If you don't have the star film, try another type of plastic film that gives the lights a more blurred look, which adds to the whimsy. 

While you can put your fairy lights in a plastic container with no rhyme or reason, if you want them to be spread out nicely and evenly, glue a chopstick to the lid of the container (cut it to whatever length you need) and wrap the lights around it. Fairy lights often have metal strands that hold them together, so you can shape them and keep them in place. Consider shaping them like branches emerging from the chopstick so the lights fill the container more evenly. Then, roll your film paper, cut it to fit your container, and tuck it inside. Place the lid with the attached fairy lights on the container, and flip over your new creation.

Another great idea is to put paper on the outside and cut shapes into it, such as butterfly wings emerging from it or even dragonfly wings. When it's lit up, it leaves shadows of flying insects on your walls. To make this upgrade, you'll need a craft knife to make your bug wings and some double-sided paper tape to attach the paper to your plastic container. Plus, this is another creative way to repurpose string lights if you already have a some around your home.