How to Make Vases

Vases may be containers for flowers but they also contribute to the decor of a room. They can be any shape you choose and you can make them from a variety of materials, including recycled items. Hobbyists can make vases from recycled bottles in little time.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bottle
• Scissors
• Wine bottle
• Wire
• Flame source
• Bucket
• Water
• Soap
• Engraving tool

Instructions

Make a Vase from a Plastic Bottle

1. Peel the label off a plastic soda bottle. Wash the bottle in warm soapy water and turn it upside down to dry.

2. 

   Measure the bottle and find the middle point. Cut around the bottle, about 3 inches above the midpoint.

3. 

   Make 3-inch cuts all around the edge of the bottle. Each strip should be about ¼" wide. Bend the strips out to form a level edge around the bottle.

4. 

   Weave the strips. Pass one strip over the strip next to it and then under the next two strips.

5. 

   Pass the next strip over the two strips next to it and then under one strip.

6. Complete the weaving, alternating steps 4 and 5 for the remaining strips. When you have three strips left, pass each one under the strip next to it to complete your vase.

Make a Vase from a Wine Bottle

1. Take the label off a wine bottle and wash it in warm, soapy water. Turn the bottle upside down and leave it to dry.

2. Fill a bucket with cold water. Measure the width of your bottle and add 2 inches to the measurement. Cut a piece of wire equal to this length.

3. Mark a point on the bottle for the desired height of your vase. Use an engraving tool to score a line at this height, all around the bottle, for the edge of the vase.

4. Bend your wire into a closed circle. Leave 2 inches free outside the circle.

5. Grip the excess portion of the wire in a pair of pliers and hold the circular wire over a flame. When it is red hot, place the wire over the scoured line on the bottle.

6. Keep the wire in place and submerge the bottle in the bucket until the water is level with the wire. The glass should break off at the scoured line leaving a smooth edge on your vase.

Tips & Warnings

• If you want a decorative edge for your glass vase, shape the wire into the design of your choice.

• Protect your eyes with goggles when working with glass to avoid possible accidents.

References

• How To Make Lamps And Vases From Bottles; Quick Easy Guides; 2008