Repurposed Glassware Totems And More

Looking for a creative way to add charm and character to your garden? Repurposed glassware totems are a beautiful and budget-friendly option! With a little imagination and a collection of thrifted or mismatched glass pieces, you can create stunning glassware garden art that sparkles in the sunlight and brings a touch of whimsy to your outdoor space. In this post, I’m sharing some of my favorite DIY glass totems, including how they come together and tips to make your own.

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If you are a regular reader, you know I like to tinker and design things, like candlesticks. So, I can’t paint a lick, but I can stack stuff.
I haven’t made any totems in a long, long time. I made this glass totem for myself in May of 2008. I’m shocked that it’s been that long.

It’s held up so well, all except for an incident with a ladder last year while the gutters were being cleaned out. The top plate didn’t survive. However, the topper piece, which is vintage Avon, is fine. All these years later, it still has a home in my backyard camper retreat.

Related Content: Decorated Bowling Ball as a Gazing Ball

Thrift Store Glassware

I have sold a few totems at the booth, so I decided it might be time to dig in my stash and make some more with repurposed glassware.

Wash & Dry Glassware

The first step is to wash everything and dry it really well. (You don’t want any moisture inside any of your pieces).

Sort Your Repurposed Glassware

Here are all the pieces waiting to be stacked.

Begin Stacking Pieces of Glassware

These are the tools of the trade, a small level, GE clear silicone, caulk gun. In addition, it is useful to keep a few paper towels handy.

Using the caulk gun, I applied some silicone to the top of this vase.

Then I turned it over and centered it on a large microwave plate. I like using substantial, heavy pieces for my base. After you place it in your garden or flower bed, you can throw a little mulch on it to cover it up.

Wipe Away Extra Silicone

I use my finger to wipe off the excess silicone.

Then I apply silicone to another piece . . .

. . . and place it on a plate. After sets A and B dry and become secure, you can put those two sets together. They may slide off if you try to stack too many pieces simultaneously.

Assorted Repurposed Glassware

It’s very important to work on a level surface. Otherwise, after you walk away, your pieces will slide off center.

They are a lot of fun to make, but be warned, collecting the glassware can be pretty addicting! Like I said, I haven’t made any in years, but I still find myself picking up unique pieces while thrifting.

I made this repurposed glassware totem with a little bowl on top… it reminds me of a lamp.

Note the large plate on the bottom for good balance.

While I had repurposed glassware pieces out, I made a dessert/display stand. It would be great for goodies or even jewelry on a vanity.

I made another smaller one with a candlestick and a small bowl. It could also hold jewelry or even soap in a guest bath.

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Putting these glass pieces together was a lot of fun. Have you made anything similar? Have you made more than one? Are you addicted like I am?

For more details, check out my original Glass Totem Tutorial article.

gail

See more GREAT repurposed glassware projects here