Old Flip Flops: Can we do something with them? November 20, 2005 10:16 AM
New friends,
Here's a challenge for you. Got an old pair of flip flops you don't want the landfill to have. Try coming up with something to use them for and share it with us here,
I have three women in the house, not counting the dog. So flip flops fill a 12' x 18' storage container. Colors for every outfit. A lot are making there way to the trash bin now that summer is gone.
This is what I've done with one pair in particular.
First I bought a set of hallow punches the kind when punching leather or plastic you end up with a hole and/or a disk.
Next, I punched out a disk about one inch diameter out of the flip flop. Took my arbour for my Dremel and screwed it into the flip flop rubber disk.
Shaped it by rotating it over some sandpaper.
Ran the new shape over some metal polish.
Now I have a polishing bob.
I also made spacers, bumpers and a hose holder.
I made so many holes in the flip flop that when cut from toe to heel down the middle of the holes I ended up with a neat hose holder for my air hose when screwed to a 2 x 4. Then cantilevered off the wall.
Now you may think this is "wierd" and unattractive, it is. The industrial designer in me agrees but form follows function. Recycling saves a lot all around.
Got an idea. Let's hear it.
Rick
Recycle, Reuse, Repurpose
[send green star]
[
accepted]
door stops: I just push the old flip flop under the door but you could glue several together then use an electric knife (I haven't used an electric knife in the kitchen in years but it is great for cutting foam and soft rubber) to shape it into a wedge.
dog toys: my dogs love to chew on them so I throw the old ones outside and use them for toys.
door jamb stops: taking your idea about cutting them in circles just take a screw or glue and attach them behind door handles on your wall to protect your walls from handle dings. (Ok I admit one more ding on the walls in this place wouldn't show but if you have walls worth protecting it would work
Spacers between pictures or mirrors you want to store (or move in my case since I am trying to pack all these valuable (said facitiously) objects I can't throw away) cut them in pieces and put four or five between the glass mirrors or pictures and they won't rub together and break.
Furniture movers: People are charging $10 for four discs that are smooth plastic on the bottom and rubber on the top. You slip them under the bottom of the furniture and it slides saving your back. You could make your own with some plastic (from old jugs?) and some good strong glue using the cut up flip flops for the rubber part that keeps the furniture from sliding off the plastic when you push it.
If you have daughters they could cut them in funky shapes and make mobles that would look great if the flip flops are bright colors.