Repurposed Glassware Totems And More

Repurposed glassware totems are one of those projects that make you look at thrift store shelves a little differently. A vase, a candle holder, an old plate, or a pretty bowl can become something fun for the garden with a little stacking, balancing, and clear silicone. I love projects like this because every totem turns out different, and the hunt for just the right glass pieces is half the fun.

Bluebird of Happiness Glass Garden Totem

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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.

This particular totem has a microwave turntable at the bottom, with mulch covering it.

It’s held up so well, all except for an incident with a ladder 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.

A few quick tips:
Use a heavy piece for the bottom.
Make sure every piece is clean and dry.
Stack smaller sections first and let them set before joining the full totem.
Check often with a level to keep the pieces centered.

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, and a 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 add a little mulch to cover it.

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 have dried and become secure, you can put the 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.

This garden totem was made with clear glass without embellishments.

They are a lot of fun to make, but be warned, collecting the glassware can be pretty addicting! As 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.

Use Clear Dessert Plate for Pastries

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.

Small Glass Pedestal Bowl

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

Styling Suggestion for Clear Glass Pedestal Bowl

Whether you’re making a tall garden totem or a small tiered stand for jewelry or soap, this project proves that repurposed glassware can be functional and beautiful. Once you start collecting thrifted glass, you may find your eye always wandering toward plates and vases. Let me know what you make next!

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Once you start making glassware totems, it’s hard to stop seeing possibilities in every thrift store aisle. Look for pieces with interesting shapes, sturdy bases, and pretty details that will catch the light outdoors. Whether you make one tall garden totem or a small display stand for inside the house, it’s such a fun way to give unwanted glassware a brand new purpose.

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.

Ready to make your own glassware totem?
Start by gathering a few sturdy glass pieces from your stash or the thrift store. Play around with the shapes before you glue anything, and don’t forget to work on a level surface so your pieces stay centered.

gail

See more GREAT repurposed glassware projects here