RECYCLED LDPE SHEET MATERIAL
MADE FROM LOCALLY SOURCED WASTE PLASTIC IN OUR BRIGHTON & HOVE WORKSHOP
ABOUT THE MATERIAL
Our 100% recycled LDPE sheet material can be used for tabletops, countertops, shelving, wall art and countless more applications!
Our process for producing large sheets is different to some other recycled plastic sheet manufacturers - as we do not work with chipped or shredded plastic, we are able to produce natural looking patterns similar to marble and other gemstones.
LDPE plastic has the benefit of being much lighter than materials such as stone or marble, making it more practical for certain applications.
Our material can be cut and sanded using woodworking machinery. The plastic can also be drilled and screwed into easily. It is a flexible material, meaning that it will not shatter on impact, but rather dent and bend. The density is similar to a hardwood and scratches as easily.
We do not recommend our material to be used in areas at risk of being exposed to high temperatures, including countertops surrounding hobs and hob splashbacks.
The chemical resistance of LDPE is very good, making it suitable for bathrooms and some kitchen applications. It is also mould and frost resistant, so can be used outside.
GEOMETRIC DESIGN
You may have noticed that our sheet material has a geometric pattern - this happens because of the way we press the plastic.
The correct weight of plastic needed for the full sheet press is melted on shelves in our non-commercial ovens at approx 150C. We create the intricate marbled pattern through layering techniques learned over the years, and finally shape each individual mass into rounds or oblongs.
The masses of plastic are then laid onto the bed of the hydraulic press in a predetermined pattern, and when the top bed is lowered and pressure is applied, the masses fuse together forming one large sheet. This creates a geometric pattern, which can be either a hexagonal or square design depending on the mass formation.
COLOURWAYS
Most of the plastic we recycle comes to us in neutral tones - clear, grey, beige or black. We then use the pigment that's already in waste plastic such as carrier bags, and mix it into these neutral bases. With this process a small amount of colour goes a long way: as little as 1g of coloured plastic can be enough to colour 1000g of clear plastic to a translucent pastel hue.
Because of our colour mixing method we are able to create bespoke colourways in endless combinations, and are usually able to duplicate colour palettes to design briefs.
As we are limited to using the waste plastic we collect and receive, there are currently some colourways that are not possible for us to create in large sheet form, but please share your ideas with us and we’ll see if it’s possible!
CUTTING & FINISHING
We offer a cutting and finishing service for all our sheet material. We can achieve straight cuts and most curved cuts - most basic geometric shapes are possible.
The edges of the sheet/table top can be cut at various angles (chamfered), or routered to a bullnose profile. Straight cut edges are finished by hand-planing to reveal the beautiful cross-section, and curved edges are machine sanded to a smooth satin finish.
Our sheets can also be CNC cut, which we are able to outsource.
FAQS
WHAT IS THE LARGEST SHEET YOU CAN PRESS IN ONE PIECE?
We can make any size and thickness up to 2400 x 1200 x 30mm, enough for a generous 8 seater dining table. Table and bar tops larger than this will be made in two pieces, however in some circumstances we are able to heat-fuse the surface for a seamless finish. Sheets thicker than 30mm can be achieved in smaller sizes. A choice of profiles are available, including chamfered and bullnose.
Can you ship abroad?
Yes, however please note that any duty, import and customs fees are the responsibility of the client.
Are you able to create bespoke pieces using my colour palette?
Yes! Because of our colour mixing methods, we are able to create bespoke colourways in endless combinations. We are used to working to design briefs, Pantones, or matching brand colours; making pieces to match the décor of a room; or working from mood boards - whichever way works best for your project.
Whilst we are always able to incorporate all of your design colours into our larger pieces, certain proportions of colours are sometimes harder to create, due to our waste plastic sources. However, please share your ideas with us and we’ll see what’s possible!
HAVE SOMETHING IN MIND?
If you have a project you'd like to discuss we'd love to hear from you. All ideas welcome!