Faux Sculpt A DIY Vase Using An Upcycled Laundry Item You Already Have

As we become more environmentally conscious, many of us continually look for new ways to use less but also to repurpose the things we do need to use. Life hacks and organization tips abound that help us bring new life to household items. Sometimes these ideas are practical, and sometimes they're artistic. One Instagram post shows us how to use our creative sides to make a cool and trendy DIY vase from old laundry detergent bottles.

Even if you have recycling pickup in your local community, used bottles of laundry detergent aren't always welcome; it depends on the recyclable number code at the bottom of the container. Upcycling, on the other hand, allows you to give new life to items that are otherwise discarded. Plus, this project allows you to make a custom accent piece for your home without spending a ton of cash. Here's how you can turn your laundry room's trash into a stylish treasure.

This project is an easy process that only requires a few home improvement supplies. In addition to your empty bottle, rinsed clean of any remaining detergent, you'll need to gather gypsum plaster, drywall putty, sandpaper, and paint. These can all be purchased at your local home improvement store, along with varnish if you choose to add that at the end. You'll also need a strip of cardboard, which you can liberate from your recycling bin or purchase from a craft store.

To start, remove the bottle cap; you won't need it and can discard it or repurpose it later. Take the strip of cardboard and wrap it around the opening of the bottle to create a neck for your vase. This can be as tall or as short as you like, but make sure it's sturdy and secure it with tape. Use the moist gypsum plaster to completely cover the bottle including the newly structured neck, creating shape and form for your vase. Sand off the rough edges, and repeat the gypsum plaster step (and sanding) if necessary. Then, mix the drywall putty with some water and apply a layer to make the surface of your vase completely smooth. After this dries, sand it again if necessary before painting. Because of the materials used, standard wall paint works, and if you want to create a high gloss, you can varnish your new vase as well.