Vase Projects With Rub-Ons

A decal might be used to cover a small chink or crack in a favorite vase.

Rub-on decals can be used on many different kinds of surfaces: glass, wood, ceramic and sometimes even candles. Because of their versatility, they're perfect for jazzing up vases for decorations or as gifts. Custom decals can be commissioned and created for special projects or occasions. Because plain vases can be cheaply obtained -- in bulk, if necessary -- they can be great party favors or gifts of appreciation for a group of people.

Guest Favors

Very small vases can be obtained for three dollars per item, less if they're bought in bulk. Decals that fit the theme of the event can be applied. For example, a wedding favor could have white flowers all over it. Because they're so small, they could be filled with candy or have a small votive candle in them, depending on the type of vase. Because many rub-on decals also work on candles, larger candles can be gifted with the vases that have matching or similar decals on them.

Faux Fish

Clear vases are sometimes used to house certain types of fish, such as a Betta. While it can make for a lovely setup, taking care of a fish especially in an office environment where one might be gone for a weekend or go on vacation for a week or longer, is potentially problematic. Instead of having a real fish, use a decal of a fish to achieve a faux-aquarium look. Use more decals for a busy-looking vase, or find fantastical decals for an amusing look; tiny mermaids may live in the vase, for example. Don't be afraid of a whimsical approach.

Etched Look

There are many rub-on transfers that resemble the look of frosted glass. These can be used to imitate an etched look on a vase when one does not want to actually etch the vase in question. Perhaps the vase is fragile, maybe there is the fear of messing up a perfectly serviceable vase, or maybe the vase is actually plastic and will not etch properly. But a rub-on can create a beautiful, subtle etched look simply and without harming the vase.

Create Your Own

There is special paper and adhesive available specifically for creating rub-on decals that work on glass as well as wood and other surfaces. With these materials, anyone may create a rub-on of any image they find or create with a computer. A vase could turn into the home for a family of fairies or could be emblazoned with a family crest. With the ability to make anything into a rub-on decal, the only limit is one's imagination.

References

• Papillo.com: "Inkjet Rub On Decal Paper"
• BelDecal.com: "Custom Rub-On Decals"
• Candles 4 Less: "Square Holders/Vases"