For years now, I’ve been casually collecting milk glass vases while thrifting. I’ve enjoyed gathering different sizes and designs but until recently, had only used them in winter decor. But with Spring approaching I finally decided to break out of that decorating habit.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I suppose it all started while I was shopping at an inexpensive antique shop that had lots of green glass vases for sale.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
In one of the booths, I saw the green glass vases and milk glass displayed together. And once I did, it was like a “Hello, St. Patrick’s Day decor!” sign was sent down from above. So, as easy as this “project” is (and it’s a stretch to call it that), I’m posting it on the blog anyway.
Besides, it gives me a reason to keep on thrifting vintage milk glass vases, right?
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
And yes, I totally bought that elephant basket, too!
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Temporary Decorations on Milk Glass Vases
Before I got started, I carefully selected the milk glass vases that I’d use with my project idea. Not all of my collection, but a few specific ones.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
My reasoning will make sense soon, I promise.
Next, I gathered some ribbon and trim that I’d bought from Etsy and various craft stores, including:
- Vintage ribbon that looked Irish;
- Green and gold satin cord
- Green rat tail cord with gold accents
- Teeny tiny shamrocks
- Gold metallic cord
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Now, I didn’t plan to attach any of this to the milk glass vases in a long-term or permanent way. Everything I’d do to the vases would be temporary and easily removed or undone.
First, I worked with the milk glass vase that had a wide base made up of concentric rings. Those rings were perfect for wrapping cord around.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I measured what I needed and simply used a tiny bit of hot glue to connect the ends together, like a bracelet clasp.
Next, I decided to decorate the small vase with the tiny shamrock embellishments.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
For this vase, I used removable glue dots (cut down to size) to hold them in place. And yes, while it’s not a perfect dupe, I was inspired by vintage Belleek vases for this particular vase!
Finishing the St. Patrick’s Day Decorations
Then, I paired up the completely plain milk glass vase with the Irish-looking ribbon that I’d purchased. I measured out enough to wrap around the neck, folded the ends over, then pinned it in place.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
After that, I whip-stitched the ribbon ends together with a needle and thread. I replaced the pin in my teapot pin cushion and that vase was done.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Lastly, I decorated the checkerboard-style milk glass vase with the green rattail cord and metallic gold cord. Again, I measured around each space and used a tiny dab of hot glue to connect the ends like a snug bracelet.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I could have gone up the entire vase with alternating cord, but I kind of liked it at this point so I stopped.
And that was it! I’d (temporarily) embellished my milk glass vases in green and gold for some Irish flair.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Simple but still elegant. When it comes to St. Patrick’s Day decor, I definitely lean into my love for Ireland. Less Leprechauns, more Celtic delight, if that makes sense.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Plus, everything is temporary and can be easily snipped or peeled off! So, I’ll be able to tinker around with my milk glass vases for future holidays and seasons.
Milk Glass Vases as St. Patrick’s Day Decor
I told you this was so simple that it maybe didn’t warrant an entire blog post. But the vases were too cute not to share.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Besides, think of all the potential applications with this idea? Christmas, July 4th, Easter..!
And why did I never think to mix up my milk glass vases with a green glass vase here and there for St. Patrick’s Day before? They’re perfect together, aren’t they?
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Now I bet you’re looking at your own milk glass vases with a discerning eye. Looking for vases with designs that play nicely with ribbon and cord.
I chose those vases for this project for a reason- and I told you that everything would make sense eventually.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I was inspired to plop (faux) daffodils in my vases because of a photo in this post by my friend, Angie. I’ve been in love with her milk glass vase centerpiece idea for years! Her blog post is honestly a great one if you love milk glass in general.
Anyway, thank you for indulging me in my maybe-this-is-too-simple-to-blog-about “project”! I certainly had fun playing around with my vases for a warmer season, that’s for sure. And please pardon me- I need to go thrifting for more green glass vases, as well.
Craft on!
S
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Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
You are so clever, this is inspiring! And I can see it in Mardi Gras colors, and reds for Valentine’s day!
Thank you so very much, Carole! And YES!! I hadn’t thought about Mardi Gras, but you’re right- that would be super fun!