Ultimate Guide to Recycled Glass Crafts

Creating your own recycled glass mosaic may seem like a daunting task, but it's not as hard as you may think. These days, many companies are producing large quantities of 100 percent recycled glass tiles or beads. Not only are these products convenient, but they're good for the environment, making use of existing materials and using less than half the amount of energy needed to create ceramic tiles [sources: Sandhill, Kilaen].

To begin, start by planning your design. Buy a cement base board -- available online or in store through many different construction and hardware companies -- and pencil your design on its surface. Drill two holes about one-third of the way from the top and screw in machine screws [source: Tsong]. These will be the anchors you can attach wire to in order to hang the finished product.

For beginners, instead of buying whole tiles which will need to be cut down into smaller pieces, you may want to consider purchasing pre-cut recycled glass beads. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, and will make the project easier.

Determine which colors you'll need. One artist suggests buying multiple shades of each color [source: Tsong]. Therefore, if you plan to depict water in your mosaic, you should consider getting multiple shades of blue beads to better add depth and shading to your design.

To secure the beads to the canvas, purchase hand-mixable cement. Mix a small amount -- enough to use it before it hardens -- in a disposable cup. Mixing directions should be provided by the manufacturer. Starting on the inside of your design, spread a layer of cement about the size of the palm of your hand. Use tweezers, forceps or a steady hand to set glass pieces in place. There should be enough cement to press the bead in so only the top half shows. Continue this process until the entire base is covered. To finish, go around the edge with thin layer of cement.

Three days should be ample time for the cement and beads to dry and set. Use a wire brush to rid the design of excess cement. If you'd like, you can use cement dye to color small amount of cement. Paint a thin layer between the tiles to mask the natural light grey color [source: Tsong]. Allow it to dry and you're done!

Creating mosaics isn't your only artistic option for old glass. Head over to the next page to find one fun way to make use of your old windows.

Window painting is a fun and creative way to recycle your old windows and glass. Not only will you free up space in your local landfill, but you'll be able to spend an afternoon with your family doing a hands-on, kid-friendly craft, or express yourself through an individualized artistic adventure. Either way, you have plenty of options for making your old windows into beautiful works of art.

Before you start, decide if your painting project will be permanent or temporary. Many businesses choose to display different window murals based on the season. Temporary jobs call for acrylic based paints, used for general painting projects. Avoid sealers, as these products are intended to last. They're marked for glass or tile and are appropriate for permanent jobs only [sources: Window Woman, Short]. Beyond your old window and paint, other helpful supplies include window cleaner, paper towels, a razor or credit card, a variety of brushes, painting sponges, water, painting tape and disposable plates.

Start by cleaning the glass using the window cleaner. Wipe dry with towel or paper towel and use the razor blade to scrape any remaining paint or marked areas. Then, set your paints out on the plates. Use your brushes to apply the paint to the window. Half-inch (1.27 cm) or .75-inch (1.90 cm) brushes work well for spreading large amounts of paint. Sponges are helpful here. Be sure to have thin liner brushes available for outlining and adding detail. Try to keep the paint free of any debris or harsh conditions until the paint has dried.

For permanent jobs, finish with a window sealant to protect the design. With temporary jobs, leave your piece up until you're ready to clean it off or start over. At this time, spray warm water over the paint. Allow the water to soak into the paint for a minute or two and then use your razor or credit card to scrape the paint off. Finish with a quick spray of your window cleaner to get the residual paint off [sources: Window Woman, Short].

If you're interested in learning even more about recycling your glass, be sure to check out the links on the next page.