Transform test tubes into mini vases

Delicate handmade vases

Test tubes aren’t just for laboratories – they also make wonderful, dainty vases. This pretty decorative vase arrangement is made by combining test tubes of varying heights. edding gloss paint markers are the ideal choice for the decoration, as their gleaming ink shows up particularly well on smooth surfaces such as glass. Simple painted designs are all it takes to make your vase set really eye-catching in a matter of moments. There is a variety of stroke widths and a range of 22 different colours to choose from. What’s more, the ink is smudge-proof and waterproof, so you can enjoy your decorated vase for a long time to come.

Category: Home decor
Products: Paint markers
Materials: Glass and mirror
Difficulty: Easy peasy
Downloads: Images (ZIP)

Step-by-step

Step 1

You can see everything you need at a glance in our photo. For our design, we used edding 751 gloss paint markers in a range of colours.

Step 2

Start by giving the test tubes a thorough clean to remove fingerprints and any other marks.

Step 3

Before you use a paint marker, activate it as follows: shake the marker vigorously with the cap on, then remove the cap, place the nib on a piece of absorbent paper and pump it up and down gently a few times until ink appears in the nib. Now you’re ready to get started (and, after use, always replace the cap securely and store the marker horizontally.) Think up a couple of nice patterns for your design. You can see in our example that we masked part of the glass surface with Washi tape, leaving a nice flat area free to decorate. Let the ink dry for a short while, then carefully remove the tape.

Step 4

If you want to make the dotted pattern, the edding 751 gloss paint marker in violet metallic works very well. Other graphic patterns or sections in different colours can also look attractive.

Step 5

When you’ve finished designing, hold the individual vases together with elastic bands in funky colours – and there you have it: your vase arrangement is ready!