DIY: Turning old light bulbs into decorative vases
by
Alessandra Daskalakis
Essentials
Thick gloves
Safety goggles
Long-nose pliers (the narrower the better)
Screwdriver
Old light bulb
Note: Do not use fluorescent light bulbs as they may release toxic chemicals when broken.
Recommended
String
Hammer
Small, thin piece of metal (IKEA Allen wrenches are great)
Instructions
Put on safety gear and find a safe, open area. Very small glass particles will fly into the air, so an easily cleaned surface, like a towel, is necessary.
Use the pliers to peel off the little metal covering on the tip of the light bulb, revealing a small hole in the black plastic.
Wedge the point of the screwdriver into the little hole to break the black plastic.
Use the pliers to remove the now-cracked black plastic so you have access to the inside of the light bulb.
Break the miniature bulb within the light bulb using a combination of the pliers, screwdriver, hammer and small metal piece. Recommended: Hammer with the small metal piece until the miniature bulb breaks, and then use the screwdriver and pliers to chisel away the remaining glass by twisting them at an angle within the neck of the bulb.
Use the pliers to pull out the wiring, leaving behind a clean, empty light bulb.