Quick and Easy Plexiglass Placemats
Published July 30, 2015
Here I used a patterned green paper but any colour scheme will work
I love finding alternative uses for materials and plexiglass is a perfect example. This clear, synthetic resin is available in various sizes, thicknesses and finishes and can be transformed into many different purposes. For this task, a thickness of 1/8 inch is ideal. Look for clear sheets of plexiglass at your local hardware store and ask them to cut them into 15″ x 15″ squares.
Materials
- Plexiglass sheets
- Wrapping paper or wallpaper (metallic or flat)
- Box cutter or scissors
- Clear tape
- Craft Glue
The idea behind this is very simple. Once you have used your placemats a few times and would like to change your colour scheme, you simply take off the paper and replace it with another colour or design for a whole new table setting. I’ve seen this idea in homes as well as similar versions in restaurants.
Ask your sales assistant to cut your plexiglass into your desired sizes. Bring them home and remove the plastic wrap on both sides. (The sheets will be very dirty so you will have to clean them with warm, soapy water)
Working on a clean, dry surface lay your wrapping paper face down and place the Plexiglas sheet on top. Using your box cutter carefully cut the wrapping paper to the exact size of the Plexiglas. Turn over the paper and glass and either glue in all four corners with the craft glue or use a small piece of clear scotch tape on the sides.
If your paper is not large enough to make two placemats, you can cut and paste the paper to fit. However, be sure to match all seams on patterns in order for the paper to look like one whole piece.
Wallpapers, magazine ads and other types of paper work well with this idea so use your imagination when choosing your underlay paper and have fun with it.
Another option is to have a very large sheet of Plexiglas custom cut to fit a small side table or intimate kitchen table. Place a large piece of paper underneath the Plexiglas and use on an everyday basis.
