Upcycling Vases into a Gorgeous Rope Vase

Last Updated on May 23, 2023 by Ellen Christian

Why upcycling vases? How many vases do you have in your home right now? If you’re anything like I was, the answer is probably more than I want. Most of the vases I’ve been given are plain glass vases. There’s nothing really special about them and they’re not overly attractive. So, they sit and aren’t used.

Upcycling Vases 

When it comes to upcycling vases, there are a few different things that you can do. You can etch glass to add a pretty design. You can paint the glass to make it a different color.

Or, you can cover the vase with something else, like rope or beads.

There are lots of different ways you can go about upcycling vases. You can start with plain glass vases that you already have at home.

Or, if you want to try this project and you don’t have a glass vase, your local thrift store or Goodwill should have quite a few of them. Ours usually sell for about $1 because so many of them are donated.

What type of vase should I use?

The easiest type of vase to upcycle is one that has straight, smooth sides. Trying to paint something that is textured can be a challenge.

And, if you’re hoping to apply rope, ribbon or washi tape to a vase that isn’t smooth, it will probably end up with creases and gaps. Of course, if that’s what you have, there is no reason you can’t try it.

Just realize that it might prove more difficult.

Can I use the vase after I upcycle it?

Yes, you can definitely use the vase after you upcycle it. Just be aware that you probably don’t want to get the outside of the vase wet. If you’re careful, this won’t be a problem.

Or, you can use the vase to hold artificial flowers or pussy willows instead.

Can you recycle the vases?

Most vases are not recyclable. When it comes to glass recycling, it’s intended for things like glass jars and bottles. The glass your vase is made of just isn’t the same quality.

Because of that, if you have extra vases you no longer want, you can look into upcycling vases with a craft like this one. Or, you can donate them to your local thrift store.

Why not fill them with fresh flowers and gift them to a neighbor or friend.

Ways to upcycle a glass vase

I’ve done a few projects using a plain glass vase before. So, why not check them out for inspiration.

• Fall centerpiece
• Burlap and stone centerpiece
• Lighted berry centerpiece

Upcycling vases and what you need

Scroll to the end for a printable about upcycling vases using this method.

• Straight-sided, clean glass vase
• Rope (nylon or sisal)
• Hot glue gun
• Glue sticks for the glue gun

Rope vase directions

1. Add a line of glue to the bottom of the vase and secure one of the rope to the vase.
2. Wrap the rope around the vase, adding glue to the vase to keep the rope in place as needed.
3. When the entire vase is wrapped, cut the rope and secure the end of the rope in place with glue.

That’s all there is to upcycling vases. It’s not difficult at all. And, there are a lot of different variations you can do depending on the type of rope that you use.

A sisal rope will give you a more natural, earthy color that would work for autumn colors. A white rope would work with a nautical theme or pretty pastel spring flowers. Just use your imagination. 

Upcycling vases and other things

Finally, if you enjoy upcycling vases and other things, check out a few of these projects.

• Upcycle a chalkboard
• Upcycled t-shirt quilt
• Upcycled furniture inspiration
• How to decoupage a glass jar
• Upcycle extra Altoid tins
• Upcycled garden projects
• Make cut roses last longer