How to Make Glass Block Nightlights

Graphic you can use to decorate a nightlight.

Glass blocks are a versatile base for a variety of craft projects. To make a nightlight, select pre-drilled glass blocks from the craft store to avoid the hassle of drilling a hole in the glass. Decorate the outside of the glass block with images that coordinate with the existing décor. Nighttime themes of baby animals jumping over a moon fit well in a nursery or child's room, while more sophisticated images work better in an adult's room. Images with dark colors help diffuse the light from inside the block.

Things You'll Need

• Pre-drilled glass block
• Paper image
• Scissors
• Wax paper
• Decoupage glue
• Paint sponge
• Small strand LED lights

Instructions

1. Select a pre-drilled glass block in the smallest available size from your local craft store. Select an image for the outside of the glass block nightlight from a magazine, photo or from an online graphic.

2. Cut out the image to fit the front or the back of the glass block. You can cover the back and the front of the block with an image or just one side. You must print graphic images from online sources with an inkjet printer.

3. Cover your work surface with a sheet of wax paper. The wax paper will protect the work surface from any stray decoupage glue. Place the glass block face up on the covered work surface.

4. Spread a thin layer of decoupage glue over the face of the glass block with a paint sponge. Press the paper image cutout into the glue.

5. Smooth the excess glue on top of the paper image with a paint sponge. Allow the decoupage glue to dry completely.

6. Apply another thin layer of decoupage glue over the image on the glass block. Allow the glue to dry.

7. Repeat Steps 4 through 6 to decoupage a design onto the back side of the glass block.

8. Remove the plastic cover over the pre-drilled hole in the side of the glass block. Insert a small strand of LED lights inside the glass block. Extend the electrical cord through the pre-drilled hole as far as necessary so you can plug in the nightlight. If the plastic cover has a slit for the electrical cord, replace the cover. If not, save it in case you decide to repurpose the glass block in the future.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint both sides of the glass block with glass or enamel paint if you prefer to create your own image on the nightlight. You can also glue embellishments such as silk flower blossoms, rhinestones and glass cabochons to decorate the nightlight. Use a viscous jeweler's glue to attach embellishments.

References

• The Artful Crafter: How to Decoupage

Resources

• Lillie Mae's Crafts: Glass Block Night Lights