Crafting a Heart-Shaped Positive Message from a Reused Styrofoam Tray





Reusing styrofoam trays to create positive messages is a wonderful way to combine creativity with sustainability. Instead of discarding these trays, you can transform them into canvases for uplifting words or inspirational quotes. 

By doing this, you're not only giving the styrofoam a second life but also spreading positivity in a unique and eco-friendly way. Whether it's for a classroom project, a community initiative, or just a personal endeavor, turning old trays into messages of hope and encouragement helps reduce waste while brightening someone's day.

Supplies used
(affiliate links for your convenience)


Directions


Step 1: Prepare the Styrofoam Tray

Start by cleaning and drying your reused styrofoam tray. Ensure it’s free from any food residue. If the tray has raised edges, you might want to trim them off so you have a flat surface to work with.

Step 2: Draw and Cut Out the Heart Shape

Using a pencil or pen, draw a heart shape on the flat part of the styrofoam tray. If you need help, you can print out a heart shape, cut it out, and trace it onto the styrofoam. Once you’re happy with the shape, carefully cut it out using scissors or a craft knife.

Step 3: Add Your Positive Message

Now that you have your heart shape, it’s time to add a positive message! Use permanent markers, paint, or colored pens to write an uplifting quote, a kind word, or a message of love. Get creative with your design—add doodles, patterns, or colors that make you smile.

Step 4: Attach the Twine

Cut a piece of twine or string long enough to hang your heart wherever you’d like. Flip the heart over so the back is facing up. Using a hot glue gun, carefully apply a small line of glue near the top edge of the heart. Press the ends of the twine into the glue, creating a loop for hanging. Let the glue cool and harden completely before moving on.

Optional: If you prefer, you can use a hole punch to make two small holes at the top of the heart, thread the twine through, and tie it in a knot. This adds a rustic touch!

Step 5: Hang and Enjoy

Your heart-shaped positive message is ready to hang! Find a special spot for it—perhaps near your desk, in a window, or as part of a gallery wall. Each time you see it, you’ll be reminded of the love and positivity it represents.

Extra Tips:

  • Make multiple hearts with different messages and colors to create a garland or mobile.
  • Consider adding embellishments like glitter, beads, or small faux flowers to make your heart even more unique.
  • This project makes a great gift! Personalize a heart with a message specifically for a friend or loved one.

Crafting with reused materials not only reduces waste but also gives you the opportunity to create something meaningful and beautiful. Enjoy making your heart-shaped positive messages! 

If you'd like to learn how to make the rings shown in the video, click HERE.


If you have discovered one of our "Art + Kindness" pieces, 

we'd love to hear from you! Please reach out to us at:

Comments