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5 unique uses for vases

<p><a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/living/product-type_vases?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-vases&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=vases" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Vases</strong></span></a> are a versatile item that everyone has in their home. Instead of keeping them locked away in a cupboard, follow these ideas for easy décor around your home without the hassle of replacing fresh flowers.</p> <p><strong>1. Mini terrarium</strong></p> <p>Simply add sand and a few succulents to a glass vase for instant plant décor that will freshen up your room with some greenery.  You can also use vases as a herb garden container. First you fill the bottom of the vase with pebbles for drainage and then transfer your small potted greens in.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="300" height="357" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/38466/vase-as-picture-frame.jpg" alt="Vase As Picture Frame"/></p> <p><strong>2. Picture frames</strong></p> <p>This activity has a great and unique finishing effect. You add a photo taped to a sheet of paper to the inside of a vase and it creates a unique frame. You can put the picture frame on your bookcase or mantel and display it as a great décor item.</p> <p><strong>3. Hanging lantern</strong></p> <p>Old vases can be transformed into outdoor lanterns. You can also turn a vase into a candle holder by placing the candle in the centre of the vase.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img width="500" height="471" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/38465/sand-art.jpg" alt="Sand Art"/></p> <p><strong>4. Sand art</strong></p> <p>Sand art is quite popular and allows you to create amazing designs while you experiment with it. There are two main types of sand art, one that uses dry coloured sand and the other involves a special type of sand with a <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/living/product-type_vases?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-vases&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=vases" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>vase</strong></span></a> full of water which makes more intricate designs. Both options allow you to use several colours.</p> <p><strong>5. Utensil holder</strong></p> <p>Depending on the size and shape of your vase you can use it as trendy pen and pencil holder. This is a practical way to keep your desk organised. You can also use <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/living/products/linen-house-ainsley-vase?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-ainsley-vase&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=ainsley-vase" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>wide-mouth vases</strong></span></a> to organise kitchen supplies.</p> <p>What are the unique ways you use your vases? Let us know in the comments below.</p> <p><em><strong>To find your home essentials, including vases, <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-o60shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">head to the Over60 Shop for high-quality offerings.</span></a></strong></em></p> <p><a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/living?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-banner-living&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"><img src="http://media.oversixty.com.au/images/EditorialAddon/201706_Shopnow_EditorialAddon_468x60_Living.jpg" alt="Over60 Shop - Living Range"/></a></p>

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How to make flowers last longer in a vase

<p>A bouquet of flowers can make any room instantly better by its vibrant beauty and sweet-smelling aroma. Unfortunately, after a few days of enjoying your bouquet the flowers will begin to wilt and die. To make sure your flowers last longer use these tips that only require common household products.</p> <p><strong>1. Sugar</strong></p> <p>Put 2 tablespoons of sugar into your vase water. The sugar promotes the opening of blooms and will nourish the flowers while they are in the vase.</p> <p><strong>2. White vinegar</strong></p> <p>Pour 2 tablespoons of white vinegar into the water and stir well. White vinegar plays a vital role in stopping the grow of bacteria on your flowers. If you are out of vinegar you can use lemon-lime soda mixed as an alternative.</p> <p><strong>3. Change water and re-cut every other day</strong></p> <p>Re-cutting your flowers is necessary so that they can soak up as much water as possible. Every time you change the water be sure to re-cut your flower stems. This is recommended to be done every second day. It is best to not cut your flowers straight across but at an angle. This will give more surface area to the stem’s tip, allowing it to access the water better. A helpful tip is to try and cut the stems in the water so that your flowers don’t have an air embolism which will impact their ability to suck in water.</p> <p><strong>4. Bleach</strong></p> <p>Just before you are about to put your freshly cut flowers in a vase, add ¼ of a teaspoon of bleach for every litre of water. Another bleach recipe that is used for flowers is 3 drops of bleach and 1 teaspoon of sugar for ever litre of water. Bleach stops the growth of bacteria and also keeps the water from turning cloudy.</p> <p><strong>5. Sterilise the vase</strong></p> <p>Whether your vases are <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/decor/products/linen-house-vase-boyd?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-boyd-vase&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=boyd-vase" target="_blank">hand-blown glass</a><a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/decor/products/linen-house-vase-boyd%20%20%20" target="_blank"></a></span></strong> or <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/collections/decor/products/linen-house-vase-mia?utm_source=Over60&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-mia-vase&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_content=mia-vase" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">stoneware</span></strong></a>, it is important that you clean your glass thoroughly before use. Before putting your flowers in the vase it is also recommended that you clean the vase with bleach and water to be sure that it is ready for use.</p> <p>What are your tips to making flowers last longer in a vase? Let us know in the comments below.</p> <p><em><strong>To find your home essentials, including the vases mentioned above, <a href="https://shop.oversixty.com.au/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_campaign=Over60Shop&amp;utm_medium=in-article-link-o60shop&amp;utm_content=over60-shop" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: &lt;a href=;"><img src="http://media.oversixty.com.au/images/EditorialAddon/201706_Shopnow_EditorialAddon_468x60_Gardening.jpg" alt="Over60 Shop - Gardening Range"/></span></a></strong></em></p>

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11 great ways to transform a plain vase

<p>If you are the owner of a few plain glass vases why not give them a new lease on life with these simple ideas.</p> <p><strong>Gold star</strong></p> <p>Paint a glue or adhesive onto a vase and then attach sheets of gold leaf.</p> <p><strong>Colour blocking</strong></p> <p>Use thick or thin tape to make interesting shapes and patterns on the vase. Then paint each section a different colour from a simple theme (beachy greens and blues, hot reds and orange). Once dry, peel off the tape to reveal the final look.</p> <p><strong>Paper tree</strong></p> <p>Collect soft bark from a paper tree and use a hot glue gun to attach it onto a vase to completely cover the glass.</p> <p><strong>Tied up</strong></p> <p>Use thin rope or string to make patterns by tying around the vase. Tip the vase upside down and work from the bottom to the top, using a hot glue gun to finish off the design.</p> <p><strong>Chalk messages</strong></p> <p>Buy some blackboard paint and add a square or circle to your vase. Add your flowers and any message that you like. A great gift idea.</p> <p><strong>Graduated theme</strong></p> <p>Using high gloss acrylic paint you can make an ombre pattern, going from darker on the bottom to lighter at the top.</p> <p><strong>Ribbon look</strong></p> <p>Another simple idea using tape. Use thicker tape to make a windy pattern on the vase, then use gold spray paint. Once dry, carefully remove the tape.</p> <p><strong>Internal shimmer</strong></p> <p>Use an adhesive to attach sparkly glitter to the inside of your vase.</p> <p>This effect looks great in a group of three.</p> <p><strong>Textured white</strong></p> <p>Grab some puffy paint and add spots to create this eye-catching pattern. Once dry, cover with white acrylic paint.</p> <p><strong>Colour dipping</strong></p> <p>Place a rubber band around your glass vase and then carefully paint a pastel paint on the bottom for a dipped look.</p> <p><strong>Confetti time</strong></p> <p>Grab an artist’s palette and add lots of different coloured blobs of paint. Then use a toothpick to select a colour and make your own confetti style pattern on your vase.</p> <p>If you try and of these great ideas, we’d love to hear how you get on in the comments section.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/06/how-to-stamp-and-stencil-napkins/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>How to stamp and stencil napkins</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/05/easy-diy-vases/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>12 DIY vases that are easy to make</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/03/ways-to-repurpose-old-picture-frames/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>12 ways to repurpose old picture frames</strong></em></span></a></p>

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12 DIY vases that are easy to make

<p>It’s so nice to have fresh flowers in your home, but it’s easy to find yourself without enough vases to go around – especially if it’s your birthday or another special occasion.</p> <p>So why not turn your hand at making your own? You don’t need a potter’s wheel or any specific skills. Just some time, patience and a little creativity.</p> <p>1. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/patterned-bud-vases/" target="_blank">Paint Pen Patterned Vases</a></strong></span>: Grab some brightly coloured paint pens and let your inner creative loose on these white vases. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/patterned-bud-vases/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>2. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.abubblylife.com/2013/03/diy-paper-bag-flower-vase.html" target="_blank">Triangle Flower Bags</a></strong></span>: There’s something sweet about a glass jar full of flowers, wrapped in a decorated brown paper bag. Perfect for making your own themed decorations for a baby shower or afternoon tea. (via <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.abubblylife.com/2013/03/diy-paper-bag-flower-vase.html" target="_blank">A Bubbly Life</a></span></strong>)</p> <p>3. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.katescreativespace.com/2013/06/21/think-pink-painted-bottle-vases/" target="_blank">Ombre Painted Floral Bottles</a></strong></span>: A great option if you want a big hit of colour in your home. Ombre is a graduated colour scheme, and is quite easy to do yourself.(via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.katescreativespace.com/2013/06/21/think-pink-painted-bottle-vases/" target="_blank">Kate’s Creative Space</a></strong></span>) </p> <p>4. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/diy-floppy-disk-planters/" target="_blank">Floppy Disk Planters</a></strong></span>: For a fun gift for an office pal, grab some old floppy disks and make these planters. Add a succulent, as they don’t need much water and will enjoy a long life indoors. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/diy-floppy-disk-planters/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>) </p> <p>5. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://ohhappyday.com/2012/11/faceted-vase-diy-free-template/" target="_blank">Faceted Flower Vessel</a></strong></span>: Here’s a fun option to try when decorating your home at Christmas time. Use a mixture of white, gold and silver for a festive look. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://ohhappyday.com/2012/11/faceted-vase-diy-free-template/" target="_blank">Oh Happy Day</a></strong></span>) </p> <p>6. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/concrete-bottle-vases/" target="_blank">Concrete Vases</a></strong></span>: Grab a drill and some pliers for this very satisfying project. Make a few at once as they look good in a group. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/concrete-bottle-vases/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>7. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/cactus-planters/" target="_blank">Gold Embellished Planters</a></strong></span>: A basic white vase, some tape, and gold paint are all you need to make these chic planter boxes. Perfect for a housewarming gift. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/cactus-planters/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>8. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/washi-3d-vases/" target="_blank">3D Printed Washi Tape Vases</a></strong></span>: Find some quirky shaped vases and then decorate with super cute washi tape. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/washi-3d-vases/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>9. <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/picture/721297/" target="_blank">Rope Bloom Bowls</a></span></strong>: Looking for the perfect accent for a nautical themed room in your home? The beige rope looks great against a brightly coloured flower arrangement. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/picture/721297/" target="_blank">Style Me Pretty</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>10. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/diy-basics-beer-bottle-bud-vases/" target="_blank">Painted Flower Bottles</a></strong></span>: Dig through the recycling to create a great collection of brightly coloured glass vases. These look great with some classic white flowers inside. (via <strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/diy-basics-beer-bottle-bud-vases/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong>) </p> <p>11. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/diy-basics-inside-out-painted-jars/" target="_blank">Metallic Mason Jars</a></strong></span>: A glass jar becomes a statement piece simply by spray painting the outside or painting the inside. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/diy-basics-inside-out-painted-jars/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>12. <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/10-ways-bud-vase/" target="_blank">Chalkboard-Dipped Vase</a></strong></span>: For a fun place setting, use some blackboard paint on a plain white vase. Re-use at any event, and customise with paint, stickers or ribbon. (via <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="http://www.brit.co/10-ways-bud-vase/" target="_blank">Brit + Co.</a></strong></span>)</p> <p>Related links:</p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/03/ways-to-repurpose-old-picture-frames/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>12 ways to repurpose old picture frames</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/travel-insurance/2016/03/how-to-make-a-diy-travel-wallet/http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/03/how-to-make-a-diy-travel-wallet/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>How to make a DIY travel wallet</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/03/diy-fabric-covered-notebooks/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>DIY fabric-covered notebooks</strong></em></span></a></p>

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How to make beautiful lace vases

<p>Lace: from gloves to dresses to curtains, it’s one of the most recognisably feminine fabrics. Try these DIY lace vase tutorials, where femininity meets function, for a new way to use the material around your home.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">You will need: </span></strong></p> <ul> <li>Lace</li> <li>Jar/vase</li> <li>Scissors</li> <li>Fabric scraps (optional, method 1)</li> <li>Fabric stiffener or spray starch (method 1)</li> <li>Sewing supplies (method 1)</li> <li>Iron (method 1)</li> <li>Decoupage adhesive (method 2)</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How to – Fabric stiffener:</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img width="316" height="178" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7601/45089-1_ass.jpg" alt="45089-1_ass" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></span></strong></p> <p>1. Spray your piece of lace with fabric stiffener or spray starch and press flat using an iron until stiff. Be careful to use the appropriate heat setting depending on the fabric of your lace.</p> <p>2. Wrap the lace around the base of your jar with the wrong side facing out. Pin seam together, leaving a five-mm allowance.</p> <p>3. Remove from jar and stitch seam together.</p> <p>4. If your lace does not stay up on its own, you have the option of adding a base for stability. Trace the base of the jar to your scrap fabric, cut out, and stitch to the bottom of your lace, again with a 5mm seam.</p> <p>5. Turn lace construct right-side out. If thick enough, let stand alone or return over base of jar.</p> <p><em><a href="http://www.homelife.com.au/how+to/how+to+make+lace+vessels+,24731"></a>Photo source: homelife</em></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How to – Decoupage:</span></strong></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><img width="499" height="420" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7600/two-shots-v3_499x420.jpg" alt="Two -Shots -v3" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/></span></strong></p> <p>1. Cut lace to size if necesssary, long enough to cover desired portion of vase while leaving enough to fold under at base.</p> <p>2. Add a layer of decoupage on vase and place lace over top, working in sections to ensure lace lies flat.</p> <p>3. After covering entirety of vase with lace, coat with second layer of decoupage and let dry.</p> <p>4. Cut hanging piece at base into strips for moulding ease.</p> <p>5. If you would like to add a heart decal to the base of your vase, draw heart on paper and tape to the bottom of the vase. Fold strips of lace over top and use a sharpie to trace heart onto lace. Cut individual lace pieces, shaping according to sharpie outline.</p> <p>5. Add layer of decoupage to base (avoiding paper heart), lay strips flat over top. Remove heart and add a second layer over lace. Let dry and you’re done!</p> <p>Try these methods on candle holders or add ribbon, burlap or twine for added flourish.</p> <p><em><a href="http://matchmadeonhudson.com/diy-lace-vase-with-heart/"></a>Photo source: matchmadeonhudson </em></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Related links:</span></strong></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/at-home/2015/05/make-flowers-last-longer/">7 tips to make fresh flowers last longer</a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/06/mod-podge-bowls/">Get crafty with Mod Podge and make your own colourful bowls</a></strong></em></p> <p><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/04/make-a-coat-rack/">Build your own creative coat rack</a></strong></em></p>

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DIY 3-step vases

<p>If you’ve ever had fresh blooms delivered, there’s a good chance they came in a rather non-descript glass vase. Over the years, these non-descript glass vases seem to procreate, multiplying in number till you’ve got a shelf full. While every household needs a few plain glass vessels, there’s something much more fun about colour. Not only will a colourful vase brighten up your home, it also complements the blooms contained within. Fortunately, it’s quick, easy AND inexpensive to transform plain glass vases into something much more eye-catching. Here’s how.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">You will need:</span></strong></p> <ul> <li>Plain glass vases (small to medium sized)</li> <li>Puffy paint from an art and craft store</li> <li>Matte spray paint in your choice of colour(s)</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">How to:</span></strong></p> <p><strong>Note: </strong>Make sure your vases are clean and dust free before painting. A quick rinse or wipe down with a damp cloth with ensure a smooth, easily painted surface.</p> <p><strong>1. Apply puffy paint</strong></p> <p>Use puffy paint to carefully place evenly spaced columns of dots on to your vase. This will add texture and give a funky look and feel to the finished product.</p> <p><strong>2. Adhere to drying time</strong></p> <p>Allow puffy paint ample time to dry completely before the next step.</p> <p><strong>3. Spray paint</strong></p> <p>Cover surface with newspaper or a protective sheet and spray vase with your chosen colour. Allow to dry before adding a second coat. Let the vases dry completely in a protected spot before use.</p> <p><em>Image credit: FlipDigs.com</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/05/diy-river-pebble-trivet/">Make this beautiful river pebble trivet for your kitchen</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/05/ribbed-scarf/">Get out your knitting needles for this simple but gorgeous ribbed scarf</a></strong></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong><a href="/lifestyle/diy/2015/05/leaf-stepping-stones/">Make your own leaf-shaped stepping stones</a></strong></em></span></p>

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