Recycled PLA Digits

Set of colourful digits for a clock, made of recycled plastic from the 3D printers leftovers or failed prints.

Recycling used PLA, for example to create new filament, is difficult if you don't have the tools to do it. This is a simple idea an I invite everyone to join and find also other solutions to this issue.

• Small 10L oven (use it only for plastic!!) Link to a similar oven
• Old meat shredder where you don't care if blades get ruined
• Silicone cake moulds, circa 10cm in height
• Oven gloves

Cut or break bigger pieces of PLA into smaller with a shredder or pliers or any tool that you have. Be careful and wear protective glasses and gloves.

Shred the PLA with the meat shredder into small pieces, the biggest should be the size of a bread crumb.

Select the colours as you prefer.

Fill the mould with the plastic dust. Use a small teaspoon or a small spatula. Try to level it as much as you can.

Set the oven to 110°C for 9 minutes.

See if it melts or it needs to be baked for a longer time.

Remember to use oven gloves to take the mould in or out of the oven, the PLA will remain hot for some minutes.

Once you pull the number out of the mould, note that the upper side will remain spiky. It can scratch your hands but the final effect can be interesting.