How to Make Bicycle Fenders From Milk Jugs

Bicycle fenders are very helpful in keeping you and your bicycle's moving parts cleaner and drier when riding in wet conditions. Bicycle fenders can be constructed out of any flat, flexible plastic, like that used to manufacture milk jugs. The idea is to cut out two long strips of plastic, cup them over your bicycle's wheels where the fenders go, and fasten them to the bike's frame.

Things You'll Need

  • Zip ties
  • 2 plastic milk jugs, 1 gallon size
  • Utility knife
  • Scissors
  • Hole punch
  • Permanent marker
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Instructions

  1. Make the Fenders

    • 1

      Find the right plastic. Your household recycle bin will likely be the closest and most convenient source for your milk jug fenders. Gather or save two empty plastic 1-gallon milk jugs.

    • 2

      Cut the milk jugs to create get two strips of plastic at least 4 inches wide and as long as possible. This usually means cutting a band around the milk jug at its widest point. Make sure to cut a piece that is too big, so you can trim it down to the perfect size.

    • 3

      Using your bicycle as the sizing model, trim down the fenders with scissors. The rear fender must fit snugly between the seat stay and curve along the rear tire to the seat tube. The front fender must fit between the fork and curve along the front tire to the down tube.

    Install the Fenders

    • 4

      Before fastening the fenders, situate each one into its place on the bicycle. Use a marker to dot the fenders at points near the seat stay, seat tube, down tube and fork where the fenders will be secured with zip ties.

    • 5

      Punch holes in the fenders where you marked them, in preparation for final installation. An office hole punch, awl or pocket knife will do the job.

    • 6

      Fasten each fender. One at a time, reposition the fenders with their holes near their previously designated areas on the frame. Use zip ties to firmly fasten the rear fender to the seat tube and seat stay. Use zip ties to fasten the front fender to the fork and down tube.