If you’ve recently stumbled upon an old crystal lid or perhaps have one sitting in your attic, here’s some inspiration to breathe new life into it. Repurposing items like crystal lids into elegant candy dishes is a perfect blend of creativity and functionality, appealing to everyone from DIY crafters to home décor enthusiasts.
With just a few supplies and some effort, you’ll soon have a stunning centrepiece that’s as unique as it is practical. This step-by-step guide will show you how to turn a crystal lid into a charming candy dish for your home or as a thoughtful, upcycled gift.
Why Repurpose a Crystal Lid?
Before we jump into the process, you might ask, “Why repurpose a crystal lid instead of discarding it?” Here’s why this trend has become so popular among the upcycling community:
Unique Aesthetic Appeal
A crystal lid’s intricate patterns and craftsmanship often scream luxury. Reimagining it as a candy dish creates a one-of-a-kind vintage décor piece for your living or dining space.
Eco-Friendly Impact
Upcycling gives old items a second life, helping reduce waste and promoting sustainability. By crafting with materials you already have, you’re making a small but meaningful contribution to the environment.
Affordable and Rewarding DIY Project
Why spend money on a store-bought candy dish when you can create something better at little to no cost? Plus, the joy and satisfaction of crafting something yourself are unmatched.
Holiday Décor Inspiration
Upcycled crafts are perfect for creating unique and festive holiday decorations. Transform mason jars into sparkling candle holders, repurpose old sweaters into cosy ornaments, or use leftover ribbons and fabric to design custom gift wraps. These creative projects not only add a personal touch to your seasonal décor but also ensure that you’re celebrating the holidays in an environmentally conscious way.
Handmade Candles
Crafting your candles is a rewarding and versatile project that adds warmth and charm to any space. With a few simple materials like wax, wicks, and essential oils for fragrance, you can create personalized candles that suit your style. Add natural elements such as dried flowers, herbs, or spices to infuse a rustic or seasonal touch. Not only are handmade candles a thoughtful gift choice, but they also offer an eco-friendly alternative to store-bought options by reducing packaging waste and allowing you to choose sustainable ingredients.
Natural collections
Nature provides an abundance of inspiration for creating beautiful and unique collections. From seashells gathered along the shore to smooth, colourful stones found near riverbeds, natural elements can bring a sense of tranquillity and connection to the outdoors. Pressed flowers and leaves are another popular choice, allowing you to preserve seasonal beauty and incorporate it into art or décor. Building a natural collection is not only a relaxing activity but also offers a way to appreciate the diversity and beauty of the environment. Each item tells its own story, adding personal meaning to your curated display.
Bathroom storage
Bathrooms are often small spaces, making efficient storage solutions necessary. Utilizing vertical space is key in maximizing storage without taking up valuable floor space. Installing shelves above the toilet or on an empty wall can provide additional storage for towels, toiletries, and other bathroom essentials.
Another way to maximize bathroom storage is by using baskets or bins to keep items organized and easily accessible. These can be placed on open shelves or inside cabinets to hide clutter and create a clean, organized look.
Utilizing unused space under the sink is also a great way to add extra storage. Install adjustable shelves or organizers to make the most of this area. Over-the-door organizers are another useful tool for utilizing space in small.
Bird feeder
Bird feeders are a great addition to any backyard or outdoor space. Not only do they provide nourishment for our feathered friends, but they also add beauty and entertainment to your outdoor area.
When choosing a bird feeder, consider the types of birds you want to attract. Different bird species have different food preferences, so make sure to choose a feeder that will cater to the birds in your area. Some popular options include tube feeders, hopper feeders, and platform feeders.
It is important to regularly clean and maintain your bird feeder to ensure it stays safe and functional for the birds. This includes cleaning out old seeds and debris, disinfecting the feeder periodically, and keeping it.
Elevated centrepiece feeders
Elevated centrepiece feeders are another popular option for bird enthusiasts. These feeders are designed to be placed on a stand or pole, allowing birds to perch and eat from an elevated position. This not only gives the birds a better vantage point to watch for predators, but it also keeps the feeder out of reach from ground-dwelling animals such as squirrels.
There are many different styles of elevated centrepiece feeders available, from simple wooden platforms to elaborate multi-level structures with multiple feeding stations. Some even come equipped with features like water trays and nesting boxes, making them attractive options for both birds and bird watchers alike.
Suet feeders
Suet is a high-fat, energy-rich food that is particularly beneficial for birds during the cold winter months. Suet feeders are designed specifically to hold suet cakes, which can be made from a variety of ingredients, including rendered animal fat, peanut butter, and birdseed.
Suet feeders can come in various shapes and sizes but typically consist of a wire cage or mesh bag to hold the suet cake and allow easy access for clinging birds. They can be hung from trees or placed on a pole feeder.
Tube feeders
Tube feeders are popular among backyard bird watchers due to their versatility and ability to accommodate different types of bird seed. They feature a long tube with several ports for birds to access the seed, which can be hung from a tree or mounted on a pole feeder.
These feeders are especially popular for attracting smaller birds such as finches, chickadees, and nuthatches. They are also great for offering a variety of seeds such as sunflower, nyjer, and millet. Some tube feeders also come with perches to make it easier for larger birds to access the seed.
Hopper feeders
Hopper feeders are often called “house” feeders due to their house-like design. They have a platform at the bottom where birds can perch while they eat and a roof to protect the seed from rain and snow. These types of feeders are great for attracting a variety of birds, such as cardinals, bluejays, and woodpeckers. They can also hold larger seeds like sunflower and peanuts.
Supplies You’ll Need
To get started, gather the following materials. Most of these items can be found at craft stores, thrift shops, or, better yet, in your home!
Main Items:
- A crystal lid (cleaned and polished)
- A small or medium glass or ceramic bowl that complements the lid in size and design
Additional Supplies:
- Strong adhesive or epoxy glue suitable for glass
- Painter’s tape (optional for precision)
- Small decorative elements like ribbon, beads, or dried flowers (optional)
- Transparent finish or sealant (optional for added durability)
Step-by-Step Guide to Repurposing Your Crystal Lid
Step 1: Clean Your Crystal Lid and Bowl
Before you start, make sure your crystal lid and the bowl you’re pairing it with are spotless. Use a mild soap and warm water to clean off any dust or dirt. Pat them dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Step 2: Evaluate the Pairing
Sit the crystal lid on your chosen bowl and check if they pair well together. The lid should slightly overhang or rest securely on the rim. Look for a complementary shape and style that enhances the elegance of your candy dish.
Step 3: Apply Adhesive
If you want the crystal lid to stay firmly attached to the bowl (rather than be removable), use a small amount of glass-friendly adhesive or epoxy around the lid’s rim where it will meet the bowl. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the glue you’re using.
Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to ensure the lid stays aligned while the adhesive sets.
Step 4: Add Decorative Touches (Optional)
This is where you can get creative! Wrap a decorative ribbon around the base of the bowl or attach beads or dried flowers for a personal touch. Choose elements that reflect your style or complement your room’s décor.
Step 5: Reinforce and Seal
If you’re using your candy dish frequently, a transparent sealant can give your creation extra durability. Make sure it’s food-safe if you plan to store unwrapped candy or snacks in the dish.
Step 6: Showcase and Enjoy Your Creation!
Once the glue or sealant has dried completely (follow timing instructions with your adhesive/sealant), your crystal lid repurposed candy dish is ready for use. Display it on your coffee table, dining area, or kitchen countertop. Fill it with your favourite candies, chocolates, or even small trinkets.
Creative Variations
The beauty of this project lies in its versatility. Here are a few ways to elevate your repurposed candy dish or take the concept further:
Tiered Candy Dish
Stack multiple crystal lids and bowls of varying sizes to create a tiered candy dish. This works especially well for larger gatherings or events.
Themed Accent Pieces
Incorporate seasonal décor ideas. For Christmas, use festive ribbons and fill the dish with candy canes. For spring, opt for pastel accents and floral patterns.
Alternative Uses
If candy isn’t your thing, repurpose your creation for other uses. Use it as a display piece for jewellery, potpourri, or even as a serving dish for dips or nuts at dinner parties.
Tips for a Polished Finish
- Ensure the bowl and lid are perfectly dry before applying any adhesive. Even slight moisture can weaken the bond.
- Use adhesives specifically designed for glass or crystal. Multi-surface adhesives might not provide the durability you need here.
- When choosing decorative elements, less is often more. Allow the crystal lid’s natural beauty to shine.
Spread the Sparkle
Now that you’ve mastered the art of repurposing a crystal lid into a candy dish don’t stop there! Upcycling not only helps the planet but also allows you to explore your creativity and craft unique treasures for your home.
If this project has inspired you, share your creations with the DIY crafting community! Post your candy dish on Instagram or Pinterest, and don’t forget to tag us so we can see your creations.
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