How to Make Artificial Sea Glass

Beachcombers have admired bits of colored glass polished smooth by the action of the waves for years. Sea glass makes a wonderful addition to crafts and seashell collections; unfortunately, it is not always easy to find. You can make your own sea glass to finish off that special project with pieces of broken glass and a rock tumbler. They will not be the real thing, but only the most discerning eyes will be able to tell.

Things You'll Need

• Broken glass Rock tumbler Sand Safety gloves

Instructions

1. Collect bits of broken glass. Saving the pieces from that broken vase or drinking glass will provide a good supply for sea glass. For a natural look, choose blues and greens, as these are the most commonly occurring natural sea glass. But you do not need to stick to common colors. Select rich reds, purples and yellows for brightly colored sea glass that is sure to brighten any project.

2. Check with a craft store for glass. You can often find bags of glass in a variety of colors for craft projects. Although you may want to incorporate round or oval nuggets, include some irregularly shaped pieces as well to create natural-looking sea glass.

3. Create your own broken glass pieces by placing a glass jar in a burlap bag. Tie the bag and tap the glass with a hammer. Use caution when breaking your own glass, and always wear safety gloves before removing the pieces from the bag. Breaking your own glass allows you to customize the size and shape of the pieces, as well as the colors.

4. Place the broken glass in a rock tumbler. Follow the directions for operation of the tumbler. Fill the tumbler 2/3 full of broken glass. Cover with water and add 3 to 4 tsp. of sand. Replace the cover and seal tightly. Turn the tumbler on and allow to tumble for several days. Check the glass. If it requires more tumbling, simply rinse and refill with fresh water and new sand. The amount time it takes to create sea glass depends on the size, shape and density of the glass used, as well as the particular tumbler you use.