Luminaries light the way

Instead of throwing away plastic soda bottles, repurpose them to make luminaries for all kinds of occasions, from glittery summer gatherings to Halloween socials. To do so: Peel the labels from empty plastic soda bottles. Use adhesive remover and a paper towel to remove any residue. Wash the soda bottles thoroughly and let them dry completely. Using a utility knife or scissors, carefully cut off top of each bottle. But how to start the first cut? Yahoo Answers “best answer” recommends heating a screwdriver on the gas and melting a hole which you then cut with a pair of good scissors.
Next, cut a half-circle out of the back, near the bottom. (This will make it easier to add the sand and the candle later.)
Draw desired shapes on the sticky-backed, removable adhesive paper and cut them out. Adhere the shapes to the soda bottles, being careful to firmly seal edges with fingernail. Cover your work area with newspaper. Spray the soda bottles with Krylon Fusion for Plastic.
After 24 hours, carefully peel off the removable shapes. (The spray paint will be dry to touch after 15 minutes but should be allowed to cure for at least 24 hours before the luminaries are put into service.) Add sand to the base for weight and insert a candle into each luminary. Light and enjoy.
Materials
Krylon Fusion for Plastic Spray Paint available in select colours at Canadian Tire, Home Hardware, Rona, Reno Depot, Wal-Mart, Kent and many other hardware and home centre stores.
Empty plastic soda bottles from your pantry
Con-Tact Paper or any sticky-backed adhesive paper, available at most craft stores
Scissors and/or a utility knife
Screwdriver
Adhesive remover
Candles
Sand
Paper towels
Drop cloths or newspaper
Rubber Gloves (optional)
Other ideas for reusing plastic soda bottles:
Make a potpourri holder. Cut off the bottom of the bottle, spray paint it, put it in the potpourri and cover the opening with lace and ribbon.
Make a “motion ocean.” Fill the bottle with half water, half oil. Add food colouring, glitter and turn. It’s great for a child’s show-and-tell day.
Make ice-packs for coolers or sore muscles. Fill bottles about two-thirds full and freeze. The plastic packs are ideal for placing in coolers and lunch boxes, and handy for emergency use when an ice-pack is needed.

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