Old glass balloons (demyjohns) are true treasures from flea markets or Grandma’s basement. Their organic, often mouth-blown glass instantly adds character to any room.
Here are 6 creative ways to upcycle these glass giants:
- The “Eternal Terrarium” (Bottle Garden)
This is a classic for glass balloons. Since the glass is often tinted greenish or brownish, it creates a beautiful play of light.
Here’s how: Fill with a layer of gravel for drainage, some activated charcoal, and soil. Plant small ferns, mosses, or fittonias using long tweezers or sticks.
The best part: Once watered and sealed, a self-sufficient ecosystem is created that requires hardly any maintenance.
- The Nautical Floor Lamp
A glass balloon as a lamp base looks both elegant and airy.
Here’s how: You can drape a string of lights inside or buy a special cork set with a socket that simply fits into the neck of the balloon.
Design tip: Fill the bottom of the balloon with sand, shells, or driftwood to conceal the cable and create a vacation vibe.
- The Rustic Garden Table
Large 25- to 50-liter balloons are particularly well-suited as table bases for outdoor use.
Here’s how: If the balloon is still in its original wicker or wire basket, it’s stable enough. Place a round plate made of tempered glass or reclaimed wood on top of the opening (secure it with rubber bumpers).
Effect: A real eye-catcher on the patio that, despite its size, takes up hardly any visual space.
- A Giant Soap Dispenser (or Beverage Dispenser)
For your next garden party, you can transform the balloon into a dispenser.
Here’s how: There are special drill bits for glass that allow you to drill a hole in the lower third for a tap. Alternatively, you can use a ladle with a long handle.
Contents: Homemade lemonade with mint and berries looks fantastic in the bulbous glass.
- The “Vase of Giants”
Sometimes less is more. A single, large branch (e.g., magnolia, cherry blossom, or corkscrew willow) in a glass balloon looks like a sculpture.
Stability tip: Because the balloons have narrow necks, they tend to tip over easily with heavy branches. Fill the bottom with decorative river stones to lower the center of gravity.