fused plastic shoes for everyone!

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Last semester I was presented with the challenge of solving the problem of plastic bag waste. After much research, I came up the idea of turning plastic bags that would otherwise end up in the landfill into easily buildable, and repairable shoes. As it can be quite difficult to recycle plastic bags, it seems that UPcycling might be a better choice. As the life cycle of a plastic bag is extended it will help decrease the rate of plastic bag waste being thrown in landfills. The general population is also benefiting as they are able to build and repair their own footwear.
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Josh Matson
mongolmatson@yahoo.com
801 380 4036

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July 28, 2011
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The fused plastic and cardboard shoe!
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Front view.
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The main problem I wanted to overcome was the availability of tools to create these shoes. I wanted it to be possible for anyone to create their own shoes even if they had no sewing experience.

 
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In the end I was able to make shoes using only fused plastic and cardboard. The construction of the shoe is done with an iron. As the layers of plastic are melted together by the iron, they create a durable material which completes the sole and outer material of the shoe. All of this is wrapped around a cardboard insole.