6 Ways To Create Your Own Shrinky Dink Paper

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Creating your own Shrinky Dink paper can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Shrinky Dinks are a beloved nostalgic toy from the 70s and 80s that have made a comeback in recent years. They are a type of plastic sheet that can be colored with markers, cut out, and then shrunk down to a smaller size when heated. However, commercial Shrinky Dink paper can be expensive and limited in terms of size and color options. By making your own Shrinky Dink paper, you can have complete control over the design and production process.

What is Shrinky Dink Paper?

Before we dive into the DIY process, let's take a quick look at what Shrinky Dink paper is made of. Commercial Shrinky Dink paper is typically made from a type of polystyrene plastic sheet that contains a special additive that allows it to shrink when heated. This additive is usually a type of plasticizer that helps to reduce the plastic's melting point, making it possible to shrink the plastic without melting it.

Method 1: Using #6 Plastic Sheets

One way to create your own Shrinky Dink paper is to use #6 plastic sheets, which can be found at most craft stores or online. These sheets are made from a type of polystyrene plastic that is similar to commercial Shrinky Dink paper. To make your own Shrinky Dink paper using #6 plastic sheets, simply cut the sheet to the desired size and color it with markers.

Method 2: Using Polystyrene Sheets

Another way to create your own Shrinky Dink paper is to use polystyrene sheets, which can be found at most hardware stores or online. These sheets are made from a type of plastic that is similar to commercial Shrinky Dink paper. To make your own Shrinky Dink paper using polystyrene sheets, simply cut the sheet to the desired size and color it with markers.

Method 3: Using Recycled Plastic Containers

You can also create your own Shrinky Dink paper using recycled plastic containers, such as yogurt or margarine tubs. Simply clean and dry the container, then cut it into sheets using a craft knife or scissors. To make the plastic more pliable and easier to cut, you can try heating it in the microwave for a few seconds.

Method 4: Using Plastic Straws

Plastic straws can also be used to create your own Shrinky Dink paper. Simply cut the straws into small pieces and melt them together using a heat gun or a hair dryer. Once the plastic has melted and formed a sheet, allow it to cool and harden before cutting it to the desired size and coloring it with markers.

Method 5: Using Thermoplastic Pellets

Thermoplastic pellets can also be used to create your own Shrinky Dink paper. These pellets are made from a type of plastic that can be melted and formed into a sheet. To make your own Shrinky Dink paper using thermoplastic pellets, simply melt the pellets together using a heat gun or a hair dryer, then form them into a sheet.

Method 6: Using Plastic Wrap

Finally, you can also create your own Shrinky Dink paper using plastic wrap. Simply wrap a piece of cardboard or a sheet of paper with plastic wrap, then iron the plastic wrap to melt it and form a sheet. Allow the plastic to cool and harden before cutting it to the desired size and coloring it with markers.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when making your own Shrinky Dink paper:

• Use a heat gun or a hair dryer to heat the plastic, as this will help to prevent it from melting or burning.
• Use a craft knife or scissors to cut the plastic, as this will help to prevent it from cracking or breaking.
• Use markers to color the plastic, as this will help to create vibrant and long-lasting colors.
• Experiment with different types of plastic and additives to create unique and interesting effects.

Conclusion

Creating your own Shrinky Dink paper can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. By using one of the methods outlined above, you can create your own Shrinky Dink paper at home using a variety of materials. Whether you're a crafter, an artist, or just a fan of Shrinky Dinks, making your own Shrinky Dink paper is a great way to add a personal touch to your projects.

Call to Action

We hope this article has inspired you to try making your own Shrinky Dink paper. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out. Share your own Shrinky Dink creations with us on social media using the hashtag #ShrinkyDinkPaper. Happy crafting!