We will show you how to bend a recycled plastic sheet from the sheet press without heat or mold.
This technique is inspired by a woodworking technique called ‘kerfing’. Kerfing is a wood bending method done without water or steam.
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Step 1 - Prepare all the materials and tools
Here’s what you need:
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The HDPE plastic board that you’re going to bend:
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30 cm x 10,5 cm, 5 mm (thickness)
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9,5 cm, 5 mm (thickness)
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A portable sanding machine
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A soldering iron
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A table saw
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Rope
Step 2 - Score the plastic
First, we’re using the table saw to score the plastic. Cut 3 mm in depth while keeping a 5 mm distance between each cut. Make sure you’re scoring the board perpendicular to the direction of the bend.
Step 3 - Thin out the end sides of the plastic board
Thin out the end sides of the plastic board using a portable sanding machine so that the sides will fit better in the next step.
Step 4 - Bend it
Now bend it carefully! Use a rope to tighten it in place.
Step 5 - Weld the end pieces of plastic
With the help of a soldering iron, weld the end pieces of plastic together. Make sure you do it well.
Step 6 - Smooth out the welded part
Now back to the sanding machine again. Smooth out the welded part to get that nice and evenly joint.
Step 7 - Done!
And voilà! Your beautiful, eco-friendly lampshade is done.
