How do you make lighted glass blocks for Christmas decorations and gifts? Here are some tips and tricks from the ThriftyFun community. Post your own ideas here.
Feed Lights Through The Hole
The blocks in the picture are lovely!! What a pretty presentation. I think you just feed a white string of Christmas lights through a drilled hole in the side and let it go where it will. I have used those blocks to paint a scene on and wrapped only the sides in the ribbon with a big bow at the top. Good luck and lucky gift recipients!
By Donna
Decorate The Block With A Christmas Card
My sister made something similar to this for us one Christmas. She said just push the lights in and let them go where they will, it will all work out. I love the idea of wrapping it like a present. They are beautiful.
My sister sponged on some white paint (not a lot but enough to give it some color) and then decoupaged on the front of an old Christmas card on one side. She stood it up and put the hole in the back and then put ribbon around the edges with a bow on top. It's very lovely and a great way to recycle cards from last year.
By Cindy
Step By Step Instructions
I started my glass block lights this weekend. After drilling the holes and rinsing them out, I let them dry for a couple of days. After drying, I spray them with Frosted Glass spray made by Rustoleum. You cannot see the light strands through the block then. I found the strands of 20 lights at CVS. They get very warm, I would not use more than 20 lights. They were easier than I thought they would be, especially with my husband doing the drilling. :)
By Denise
RotoZip
I just made these blocks, I used a RotoZip tool with a masonry bit (used for tile work) to drill the hole. It was fast and easy, about 5 minutes. I stand my blocks on end, drilling on the side for the hole. Regarding the dust that falls inside the block while drilling, I used the hose attachment on my vacuum cleaner to suck out the dust, that also works great. The lights I used were the mini 20 set with only on plug on one end, they are NOT the end to end type of light, that way all the lights fit inside with the cord and plug hanging out. I tie a bow on the front of my block and also attach 2 smaller round Christmas ornaments for a little extra flair. These make beautiful gifts.
By Laurie
Keep Your Drill Bit From Overheating And Other Tips
My wife and I just started making these (for gifts) this season. The holes were a bit difficult to drill. Tip: Use the appropriate lubricant (water in my case), so that your drill bit doesn't overheat. This will prolong the life of the (expensive) bit. Also, wear ear protection. The drill make a high pitched sound, which will cause your ears to ring. A breathing mask is advisable as well, glass dust is not a great thing to breathe.
By Dan
Tips For Indoor And Outdoor Blocks
I have to tell you all that I have tried many different things and settled on the following because they look the best. First, I bought my blocks at Lowes for about $4.25 a block. I bought them in cases of 8. Next, I purchased a diamond core drill bit online from a company called McGills for $15 (just google diamond core drill bits). I used a drill press at a slow pace. It took about 4 to 5 minutes a block. I also used a diamond bit lubricant that I sprayed on with a small spray bottle. Just a little bit will do it. I then tried different alternatives with the lights. For outside light boxes, which I use as luminarias, set upright, I used regular mini sets of 50 that I bought for $.99. I tied the bows around the sides so the lights only show through the front and back. I sprayed both sides with frosted spray from Lowes, by Rustoleum, a couple of coats and then set them at intervals down the driveway. Very nice effect! For indoor ones, I used LED mini lights that I got from a friend who does that for a living , so it gave me a price break. I used pre-tied bows from Lowes that were $1.99 each. That sort of offsets the LED lights price. LED's do not get warm and they use 80% less energy. I would look online for these. I also sprayed these with frosted spray. Oh yes, I forgot I bought some opaque glass spray paint in blue and green to spray stenciled phrases like, "Peace on Earth" etc. on the fronts of the frosted glass block, that I used for the luminarias. Very cool effect.
By Gabriella
Use Rice To Clean Out Dust
I have used rice and water shaken around inside the block to clean the dust out. Empty the rice, rinse and let air dry. This does a great job of cleaning the inside. I also spray-paint the front and back with an opaque glass paint and the light wires do not show all that much.
Don't try a regular drill bit. It needs to be a diamond drill bit.
Lights Just Go In Any Way
I have made a few and used the smallest strand of, I believe, 25 clear lights and just stuck them in. I did not arrange them any way. I do not believe they have to be a certain way. I agree, they are beautiful!
By sev
EZ Bow Maker
Hi, I just found this site and love the idea of the Glass Block Christmas Decoration. I have a Deluxe EZ Bow Maker I bought at JoAnn's, it's by Offray and I make beautiful bows with it and I'm not a bow maker by any means. It's very easy to use.
By Barbara
Using End To End Lights
I have been using end to end lights in mine. I fold the stand of lights in half, then start feeding the lights from the fold (the center of the strand) into the block. I end up with two ends hanging out, but that's OK. Thanks to all of you for the great tips! I have used many of them.
By tonya
Use A Bow Maker And Hot Glue
Everyone is on track. I made them for all my family last year. Just buy a bow maker from Michael's - it takes a few shots to "get it", but you will. I used a hot glue gun in spots to secure the ribbon to the glass. Yes, you can get 35 lights, but sometimes they are hard to find.
By Jenny
Make Your Own Vacuum Straw
To get the dust out of the blocks, take an empty toilet paper roll and attach it to the end of your vacuum hose. Take the other end of the toilet paper roll and bend it until it's cone shaped, then insert and tape a drinking straw to the end of the coned end of the roll. Put the straw through the hole in the block and suck out the dust.
By dan
Drill Press Helps In Drilling
We made 10 of these. Beautiful. Husband had a drill press which made it easier. We used 20 lights with white cord and it was enough light. We did find that transparent ribbon did not work as well as solid patterns. We bought the blocks at Lowes, ribbon at Joanns and WMart. He kept spraying water as he was drilling, hardly any dust at all. At first took him 20 minutes to drill but now he can do it in like 10 minutes. Did not break one glass. Also made smaller ones, we got those at Menards.
By Mary
Let Professionals Help
I have been making these blocks for over a year now and each time I find them done different. I use blocks that I buy at Lowe's and have been having my holes drilled by a professional glass cutter. He has yet to break one. They come out looking wonderful and he rids me of the powder dust inside before I pick them up. Make them a lot easier to work with. After reading some of the feedback on this site, I am going to try to do them myself. I have found the the smaller blocks (3x3 inches) make wonderful gifts for the occasional friend or spur of the moment gift need during the holiday season. I also make the blocks using seasonal ribbon for each holiday. They make great Mother's Day gifts too. A lot of people use them as night lights in children's rooms and bathrooms as well. In one of the questions asked about the white coating around the side of some blocks, my husband used a grinder with a wire brush to remove the coating and then sand blast the sides to give the block an etched look. A florist will make you bows if you are having a time with them. Well didn't mean to write a sonnet but hope some of my comments help.
By Betty
Removing Paint Off Sides
For those of you who had questions about getting the white paint off of the sides of the glass blocks, just soak the block in warm water for a few minutes and the paint can be easily scraped or rubbed off. I also found that rinsing the block with water after drilling worked well in cleaning the dust out of the block.
By Marcia
Jumbled Lights Look Prettier
I make these every year. Don't worry on how the lights lay inside the block. I push my in slowly, but when they are all in I just lightly shake my block from side to side. No pattern in the lights, makes them so much prettier.
By lisa
Use A Fake Credit Card To Scrape Off White Paint
To get the white stuff off, I wet it and use one of those fake plastic credit cards you get in the mail from credit card companies. Scrape all you can get off then I go over it with a scotchbrite pad. Then I wipe it down with a little fingernail polish remover.
By serenity1
Add Gift Stuffing For A New Look
When you put the lights in, alternate with incandescent shredded gift stuffing, (the kind you put in the bottom of gifts baskets to take up space). The lights don't get hot enough to melt the shredded stuff and there are cool burning lights now if you can find them. I have made these w/ all kinds of lights from mini Easter lights in parfait colors, their cutest. Now back to the shredded stuff, its really pretty cause the lights reflect off the shredded stuffing and you won't see the the cords. I found that the blocks come in 4 different sizes I like the block that is the size of a Velveeta box, it's so different. People like my blocks cause I do a 3 block set all in different sizes.
By Patty
Bowdabra
One word about making bows, BOWDABRA! Buy it at Michaels
By Mary W
Tie Ribbon On Edge Instead
I have mine just the opposite of yours, I cover the ugly outside edges with the ribbon and let the wavy glass show. The edges on the outside that would have grout if they were stacked into a wall.
By Lisa
Cut Off End To Fit In Hole
My friend and I were buying the regular string of lights, and cutting the female end off and then capping the end wires with electrical caps (which is apparently illegal to do!). Only because we had a hard time finding the curtain (icicle) lights that have the plug only at one end. Then, we just decided to make the hole at the side of the glass bigger. This way it simply doesn't matter if the string of light has the large plug at both ends, the ribbon will cover it anyway. This will also give you more options on the colour of lights you want to use.
My husband made the holes and after a few broken blocks, he did realize how important it is to keep the books lubricated. After that we were on our way. I did buy the 35 light strand (only one plug in the dollar store) but first I sprayed painted the blocks with the "frost" by Rustoleum. I did my bows with "BOWDABRA". This was a real find since I am bow impaired. With the frost, I did not worry about the dust inside or the edges, since the frost made it look all the same.
Thanks to all of you for your wonderful help. We would not have been able to do them without all your advice.
By katie9
Use LED Lights
I just made a glass block light but I used the LED Xmas lights on sale from Menards for about $6. The LED lights generate no heat and are plenty bright. I use them on my real Xmas treee so I don't worry as much about the heat and they use a lot less electricity.
By Tom
Great Variety Of Glass Blocks
You can buy glass block in many sizes and shapes. Most common are 8x8 and 6x6. There are also angle block. Then you have to pick the design. They come in "VUE" which is completely see through. "Decora" (most common) which has a small ripple efect. "Icescape" which you cannot see through, kinda like frozen water on the glass. And some with diamond shapes and vertical lines. They even make "Decora" banks (money). Has a slot on one end and a hole with rubber stopper on other end. No glue on ends. They come in 8x8 and 3x3. I work for a building material company and we are a resaler of this material. A 6x6 "Icescape" is about $4.00 a piece. We sell them 1 at a time or 50. Check with Rinker Materials or goto Pittsburgh Corning web site.
By Tony
Ikea Lights
The lights I use are from IKEA. We refer to them as "rice lights." The lights are very small so inserting them into the 1/2 drilled hole is very easy. There are 40 lights to a string, and the cord color matches the color of the lights. Most likely these lights are a seasonal (Christmas) item at IKEA. I paid $5.99 per string.
I've done two lights in one day after seeing them at a friends house Xmas party. The holes aren't too tough if you use a diamond drill. There are a couple of ways to arrange the holes, but the simplest approach is with a diamond core drill, about 3/4" should do it. My own were done with small bits and took about 1/2 hour to make the large hole. Best wishes for your success.
By Dick
Blocks With Garland
My sister just gave us these for Christmas. I think they are beautiful. She used garland and wrapped the lights. She also drilled two holes to better manipulate the lights. Hope this helps.
By karen
Clay For A Water Dam For Cutting
Use clay to create a circular dam around the side of the block; fill the dam with water to keep the bit cool; use a diamond bit; will take no more than 1 minute per block to drill through. Rinse inside with water thoroughly and let dry. I used to remove the white stuff on the ends but found it actually reflects the lights through the front and back so I now leave it. if you want to remove, a wire brush and hot water make it easy work. I have experimented with just about every kind of light. like 35 string LEDs the best, cool to touch but expensive. Rope lights from 1000buls.com that can be cut to size also work very well. I like the rope lights in wine bottles.
By dd
Pricing Information For The Northeast
I live in PA. Over the last 2 days, I visited all of the CVS Pharmacy stores in my general area. I found Merry Brite 20 strand lites in both clear and multi-color. They were 32 cents for each box (75% off). I purchased 80 boxes which is all I could find for now. I found the blocks at HD for $47 for 10 but if you wait until they go on sale, you can get them for under $40 per 10. I purchased rolls and rolls of wide ribbon at 50% and 75% off (I've been average $400 per 100 yard roll). The sheer fabric works and looks the best. I sell them for $25 each and spend the summer making about 200 of them (that's more than a $20 profit). I make about $5000 at Christmas time selling them. Everyone loves them. If you put one in your office, school, doctor reception area, etc. along with your phone number or business card, you would be surprised how quickly they sell. I was going to pay the money to set up a stand at a craft show but why work all weekend at a show and spend $100 for a booth when they sell themselves. Most businesses will allow you to sell them from their office if you tell them they can keep the gift box on display. (01/03/2007)
By Rita
Make A Half Inch Hole And Other Tips
The hole should be 1/2" and the lights just lay randomly in the block. Also, you can purchase soft rubber grommets (1/2") at Home Depot or Lowes in electrical and cut it so it slips over the wire and then push it into the hole to prevent wire scraping
By Jim
Use Fabric
I do these but I cut fabric to size for front and back and edge, and decoupage the fabric right to the glass! I used a cute background fabric and then cut out teddy bears & blocks for a baby shower gift. On one that had dolphins on one side, whales on the other, I actually decoupaged SAND on the sides & bottom and hot glued (hi temp) some sea shells in a cute arrangement on the top for someone who loves the ocean! Hope this gives you some cute ideas!
By Lorraine
Resources For Materials
Best place to get lights - Hobby Lobby has a 20 light string, white wire and sockets, for about $1.25 each. This string does not have the female plug end, so it feeds quite easily. Use a 5/8 core cutting diamond drill bit. (http://www.diamond-drill-bit-and-tool.com/Diamond-Drill/MAIN.htm) Feed the lights in unanchored. To get a new arrangement, just give the box a shake. Secure the wire with a 5/8 " (#4) cork, end painted white. Secure cork with hot glue. Corks from The Wiget Company are $12.00/hundred, no tax or shipping. (http:.//www.widgetco.com/cork-stoppers)
I love my new hobby, I am making custom night lites for bedroom and bath, with the block lites, I have posted a picture of one for a baby boy's room with the cowboy theme.
Just a quick note to let you know that Hobby Lobby and Michaels & Joann's Etc. have their Christmas decorations out already and Hobby Lobby has boxes of 15 lights, 20 lights, 35 lights, 50 lights and 100. I bought the 15's for the small blocks; the 20's for the next size up and the 35's for the 8 X 8 X 4. They work great and were priced very inexpensively. Anyone got any new ideas for decorating? To make them more personal, I plan to try etching them. Wish me luck!! (08/27/2007)
Hello, I am the Marketing Director for the Glass Block Supply Company, we sell and ship case quantity 5/8" pre-drilled glass block. Many sizes and patterns. Call 1-800-225-1404 to order. Ask for John.
I just searched this morning and there is someone selling pre-drilled glass blocks on E-Bay. These have the hole drilled at 1.5". I think this much bigger hole would probably accommodate the end to end strands, if you cannot find the single end strands. These are really neat! I plan to try my hand at them this year, since hubby got a drill press!
I buy all sizes of blocks and use all sizes of light strands. The LED lights are best (Wal-Mart) and last longer. To feed the lights with plugs on each end, you cut off the female plug (do not connect the two cut ends) this will short out your lights. I use electrical tape (they sell it in different colors, green, blue, white, red, yellow). I cut one strand of the cut off end (they should not touch) a little shorter and then tape them up. Then, I feed the lights through the 1/2" or 5/8" hole in the block. (09/27/2007)
By Dorothy
Add Decals To Blocks
I just started making these blocks, are they ever so cute. I put NFL or Military decals on mine (I'm a military mom) my son's been in the army for 11 years. After I put the decal on, I spray mine with glass frost, I buy it at Lowes along with my blocks. I put one color of ribbon on one side then another color on the other side. Then I use a bowdabra to make my bows with both colors for the top.
By Connie
Use A Diamond Hole Saw
Today I found an easy way to get holes in glass blocks. Use a diamond hole saw. They cut out a hole without a lot of dust and they are quick. It only took me about a minute to do. You use a drill and water as a lubricant. They can be found at www.harborfreight.com or if you have a Harbor Freight near you, they carry them. They are very inexpensive ($2.95 to $9.95) and seems they won't break glass as easily the "arrowhead" type. I bought set# 32399. I also was able to get my blocks at Lowes for $3.33 each.
Just a quick note to let you know that Hobby Lobby and Michaels and Joann's, etc. have their Christmas decorations out already and Hobby Lobby has boxes of 15 lights, 20 lights, 35 lights, 50 lights and 100. I bought the 15's for the small blocks; the 20's for the next size up and the 35's for the 8x8x4. They work great and were priced very inexpensively. To make them more personal, I plan to try etching them. Wish me luck!
Wow, what a glowing gift. Aren't Glass Blocks expensive? I, too, would like to learn to make those fancy large bows! If affordable, I'd like to do this for my elderly mother in a group home since they don't allow strings of lights in the open to prevent tripping over or accidental strangling/electrocution. I wonder if this idea is safe enough to pass their inspection?
I once saw the first LEGGS chrome/clear egg containers made into a lovely flat flashing tree on plywood for the outdoors, and never quite figured how it was done so well. I believe it had tinsel or icicles inside with the bulb/light. Regardless, it too was lovely.
By Lynda
I bought my at Lowe's and I paid $4.77 for it. I estimate the ribbon will cost about $5 for each block. Pretty inexpensive gift don't you think?
Oh My! Those are just beautiful! I have never seen anything like that. I think that "I" could even make one. My question to you is how did you make those awesome bows? I don't know how to do them and you can't have a present without the big bow, right!?
By Laura
The person who made this one told me she used an old fashioned bow maker, some sort of long wooden board with pegs. I have just purchased one of those new bow makers and now I have to find just the right ribbon. Wish me luck. I also spoke to the instructor of my One-Stroke Donna Dewberry painting class and she said the block would be very beautiful with a winter scene painted on it and maybe some velvet ribbon around the edge with a couple of ornaments glued to the ribbon on top. Hope she is right because I want to try that after Christmas. Too much to do right now to try to paint too.
My mother and I are making these blocks and they are very easy to make, my question is I cannot find strands of 35 lights and 20 is not enough and 50 makes the blocks get hot so I worry about fire, any ideas? Do they not make strands of 35 lights anymore? (11/10/2006)
By Denise
I just bought 10 boxes of 35 light sets at a store called Family Dollar. They were $1.00 per box! Did you actually try the 50 light strand? I haven't heard anyone else say theirs got too hot with 50. If that is the case, I will take back the two boxes I bought at Walmart. I just thought I would try 50 to see how they looked.
Help! What's the best way to drill the hole and get the dust out of the inside? The bit was $13.00 and only did one glass. It took about 40 minutes. I've now got dust inside the glass. Any help would be appreciated! Making Christmas presents for a large family! Thanks!
By Sheila
There is no good way to drill these holes, at least I don't think so. I too paid a hefty price for the drill bit. One other important point; after drilling the hole (use only a diamond bit tungston made for glass), I found that there is lots of glass dust down inside the block. I suppose it might be possible to spray some compressed air into and around the hold to try to prevent the dust from falling inside. We discovered that the block needs to be on a firm surface so we could get enough pressure to get the doggone hole all the way through. I used water and drained as best I could and then let it air dry for a few days. The water pools in the grooves of the block and it takes a long time to dry. I might try a can of air spray I have for my computer keyboard to see if it will help dry it out.
I need to know how to drill the hole without breaking the block. I have a glass bit and tried several different ways and nothing works so far. The glass block keeps breaking.
By J M S
Are you drilling on the side of the block? I didn't have any problem or any sign of cracking. In the photo, you will notice all the blocks are sitting flat on the widest part of the block with the hole at the back side. Hope this helps.
I am attempting to make a couple of these and I read somewhere that it is OK to cut the one end off the string of mini lights (cover with electrical tape) to fit them in through the hole. Is this safe? If you have any other suggestions, please let me know. Thanks in advance.
By Marg
My suggestion would be to either make the hole larger, or, use lights like the "mini" ones only. I think any light larger than these would make too much heat and may become dangerous. I think the hole we drilled was 1/2" to 3/4"in diameter. Not sure why you would cut off one end of the lights. If you cut off the plug, the lights won't burn and there really isn't any reason to cut off the other end, at least none that I can think of. Give the "mini" ones a try. Hope your project comes out great.
I found a place in North Hollywood CA that ships to Canada. McGills Warehouse sells 8x8x3 blocks for $2.63 for each purchase of 6 blocks or $1.63 for buying just one block. Phone # 818-765-5790. They use a company called TST Overland Express to ship to Canada. Also you might want to check out Vetroarredo, located in Pennsylvania, who I believe ships to Canada. Phone # 724-242-2121. Hope this helps, or at least provides another avenue for you.
Has anyone used plastic blocks? I got 40 of them at a yard sale, and was inspired to start working on them. I was afraid that they may get too hot. When I got them at the yard sale, they were in a big box! They look the same as the glass ones, but they are maybe 6-8 in? They are in the basement and I haven't measured them. They 'hook' or 'slide' to connect to each other. (I will HAVE TO put the ribbon around the edges because of this) I will be experimenting with drilling holes this next week. Should I just put some lights in them and see if the plastic gets too hot?
By Mommy Newsom
I have never seen plastic blocks. This sound like an interesting project but I have no idea where to find them. By all means put some lights either in them or on them to test the heat level. Start out with a set of 20 or less and then try 35. I hadn't thought about putting lights on the outside, maybe around the edges, but it might work. Not sure about attaching the strings with hot glue though. Might work with putting some type of decoration on top of the string and gluing the decoration instead of the lights. The lights should stay secure. Hope this helps.
By the way, when I first posted this thread I was so "Bow challenged" and with practice, my bows are just as nice are the ones I see at Hobby Lobby that sell for $6 to $12! So, if you are struggling, keep the faith and keep practicing. Here's one of my latest:
I would not try to put the lights on the outside, it would lose the look of a glass block. I was talking about putting the ribbon on the sides of the block and not crossed in the middle. I found the place to order the acrylic blocks - Hy-lite Products. I am not sure how the price compares to the glass ones, but they are easier to drill!
By Mommy Newsom
How Much Would You Charge For These?
I was wondering what you sell this complete for. My sister is making a couple. Thanks for your input.
By Marcy
I bought my first one for $20. I checked on Ebay and the price range is anywhere from $15 to $50. Some of the ones I saw had hand painted pictures on the outside which made them even more interesting. One lady said she had a picture laminated to put on the front of hers but she didn't mention how to attach it. Maybe with some type of adhesive from a home store. I'll investigate this when the holidays are over and see what I can find. To the lady who asked about drilling the hole in the widest part of the glass, I don't recommend it, because my son-in-law told me those things have been known to "pop" and send glass everywhere because he says he thinks someone told him they have some type of gas in them that occurs from the process of making them. He wasn't sure and neither am I. Just thought I would tell you what I had been told.
By the way, I've got about 25 blocks for sale if anyone might be interested. Photos available. Thanks! (Posted 10/2/07)
Hope everyone has a lovely holiday! Merry Christmas All!
With a drill press set at less than 300 rpm, a simple wooden jig to hold the blocks, a chip brush, windex, and a bit made for ceramic tile or glass, holes can be drilled in 30 seconds cleanly with no burrs or sharp edges.
My wife and I have made literally hundreds of Lighted Glass Blocks. I agree with most here that drilling the hole needs to be a slow, careful process. The correct light strand is also very important. Using single ended strands with not too many lights is the key.
The picture is a little outdated, as we now have several different unique methods of decorating and we do so for any occasion imaginable. This has been one of our most enjoyable hobbies to work on together and we have met so many wonderful people at our local craft shows in St. Louis.
What I like the best is, no matter how many crafters take on making Glass Block Lights each one becomes a unique, personal creation! I recommend this to anyone (who is the least bit creative) as a wonderful therapy.
Get the Dewalt 3/4 Diamond bit, use water to cool & wash away the dust. When drilling SLOW speed lots of pressure. Start drilling at 45 degrees then 90. I was drilling 3/4 inch holes in 2 mins. DO NOT buy new blocks! Go to Craig's list or Recyler. I got used Blocks for $1 each, more cleanup. Chip old morter off with hammer then wirer brush in motor. Phil www.nwfishcarvings.com
CANADA- I got my blocks at Home Depot. It's alot cheaper if you buy them by the case $39 for a case of 10, or $4.90 ea. I've done a lot of crafts over the years, and these are by far one of the easiest ones to do! Have Fun!
Uppercase Living has wonderful vinyl designs that can easily be added to your glass block projects to make them even more special and appealing. Uppercase Living is an industry leader in decorative vinyl expressions for home, business, crafts, and special occasions. There is a whole section of designs just for glass blocks, plus a huge assortment of embellishment designs that can complement your projects. Our designs come in over 30 colors, and you can even customize your own sayings or words!
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50 light strings work perfect and are not to hot. No way would it "overheat". We also cut off the female plug and cover wire with electrical tape. You can find strings of 50 clear lights with white cord early in the season, but they sell quickly.
Thank you to everyone for all the great suggestions, tips and photos. I received a "Christmas" glass block for a gift last year and really enjoy it. Today, I went to Hobby Lobby and bought a glass block (50% off) with a detachable plastic opening. Can't wait to decorate it and give as a gift. Happy Holidays to all!
I am trying to make my first block, but just don't know really where to start. I bought a pre-drilled block..and made a bow for the top with my new bowdabra. I thought about spray painting Rustoleum Frost on the edges and mod podge some Christmas colorful fabric on to the front and back.
My ribbon for my bow is too wide to run up the sides of the block like i see many block makers have done. I've also seen some have painted the edges with white acrylic paint and mod podged that to give it a glossy look, but when I tried to paint the edges it looked sloppy. I'm a bit frustrated not sure really what I'm doing. I'm not as creative as most. Wish me luck.
Beautiful To make mine for any occasion, I buy ornaments and glue gun them to the flat side and add the ribbon on the edging side. They work for all occasion and I buy the lights that are one bulb at the end with a pinch to hold it in place. ( dollar store)
Was curious to see why I should go for diamond and not regular. I'm probably going to be making a glass block this Christmas -- want to exercise the creative muscle :)
I use the diamond drill bit for my glass blocks, drill the hole first and I decorate them with Polymer Clay, you can bake the clay right on the block at about 260 degrees for 25 minutes. The blocks turn out great and you can decorate them for any occasion, Christmas, Halloween, about anything you want. I've made dog blocks, Zoo Animals, Lions, check out www-plafu-com for ideas in polymer clay glass blocks ideas. FUN STUFF!
I bought several $1.00 tree topper star ornaments that come with little strings of white lights at the dollar store. Remove the star ornament and you have your 10 or 20 count string of little white lights.
I found LED lights at BigLots with 20 on the string and run by 3 AAA batteries! Only $4 a string. That way people can put the blocks in the middle of the table and not worry about an outlet nearby. Says on the box 25,000 hours of battery lift. And they stay cool the whole time. Very bright lights too.
We have just started on making these and I love doing it. My biggest problem is finding space on storing them. How do you all store them or transport them to shows?
I drilled my first block this morning before work. Only took about 10 minutes, I was scared at first but went really smooth. Can't wait to get home and start to work on decorating it. I am so excited about making them.
I use battery operated drill with 5/8 in diamond hole bit. Drill hole in back of block, near edge, but can be anywhere. I drill in the kitchen sink with water running to keep bit cool. Have the block at a slight angle so water can run off. afterwards, rinse dust out with water and let air dry. I suggest buying light sets after Xmas when on sale. I am going to try for led sets in the future. Paint can be removed with water, steel wool, elbow grease. Before drilling, I drill holes, install the lights, wife decorates the blocks with ribbon and artificial flowers and leaves, as I am artistically challenged. Her blocks are usually upright, but have gotten a lot of ideas on here and Corning site.
I have used both the "Decobloc" and have drilled with a diamond core bit. Decobloc is so cool, but the drilling is much cheaper. Here is what I have made
I sold 13 of these in one day through "word of mouth". Strands of 35 lights can be purchased at Menard's for $1.19 a box. Great deal! Some of mine are painted and others are gift wrapped, while still some have mosaic tiles on them!
I see that Pittsburgh/Corning has a new glass block out called DecorBloc. I saw them today. There is a large insert in top and also to fit a plug to make a bank and also upside down there is a slot in the insert where the wire comes out. They are Pricey but this is in Canada. I'm heading Stateside on Friday to see if price is different $13.67 for 8x8 and $11.45 for 6x6. If you want to buy a case there is only a 10% discount. I guess I just have to keep a drilling. Out of my l0 block I managed to get 8 because 2 broke. That is one hard job I find. Between 5-8 minutes for one hole.
Two people; 1 to drill, and the other to spray water.
Also the hole is 5/8" and plug will not fit through so I cut off FEMALE end and tape wire with electrical tape, and the lights go on when plugged into socket. I've had no trouble with overheating or anything. They are beautiful. I also get etching cream and using stencils I put snow flakes etc on glass. Well I have to beg my brother to help me drill them again this year. Thank God for brothers.
Oops, I forgot to say I put a string of white wired lights in the block, and also you can cut of the female end of the cord and the lights still work when the male end is plugged into electric outlet. Saves trying to put in plug end.
I made the glass block lights last year and they were a hit. Now everyone wants more. I had a friend drill the holes last year but I am going to do the hole myself this time. I am in Canada so the blocks are a little more pricey. I have a carbide bit by Mibro from Home Depot and that's what they recommended so I hope it works. Where do you find the 3x3 blocks? Thanks Patricia. I just love this site.
Hello, For those that wish to order Acrylic Blocks instead of glass block. You can buy them at acrylicblocks4less.com. They sell them ea. and unlike glass blocks, Acrylic blocks are easer to drill and safe to use. acrylic blocks only weigh 1 lb and if you drop them will not break like glass. check out the website : acrylicblocksforless.com Good Luck!
Tom Williams created this snowman couple with acrylic blocks.
i too am looking for the acrylic blocks, so far i havent found them. but i just had to jump in because we just saw some creative ones at our local sierras craft store(way expensive- pre-drilled-$7.99 for small4" and $9.99 for larger ones-Lowes is only $4.5 but you have to drill your own holes). the one we are incorporating for center pieces for my daughters wedding...you use transparency paper and print out 1 or 2 pics you want to use of the couple and either use spray adhesive or decouplage it to both sides of the blocks, wide ribbon around the edges in their wedding colors, bow on top if wanted and of course the lights inside ( they have 15 strand battery operated ones for like $2.99) great center piece idea, we will have scented tea lights surrounding it but my daughter is thinking of inserting the glass rocks you can get at the dollar store into the bottom base of it also. her friend that is making her wedding cake in the box sizes suggested using the smaller sizes for the base for the cake- 3 tiers, 4 each tier- which seemed like an awesome idea, especially with tying it into the centerpieces, till her fiance asked innocently if the weight of 4 of them would crush the cakes at all? hmmm, thats why i am looking for acrylic/plastic- but they also had some that were decorated as pumpkins, looks like rub on transfers, in the typical black triangular eyes you see on pumpkins, with the lights inside and wrapped in orange cellophane .......cute for your front porch, steps, driveway or just inside your window looking out, they also had one decorated as a scarecrow...but a girlfriend said she has seen them at a church craft project done with rub ons that had blue and white lights, silver ribbon around it and a white snowman as a rub and the words......brrr, its cold out there...jeesh you could do all kinds of christmassy sayings...she has done one for her little boys room with i dont know if it was spidey man stickers on it? but as a night light....so i am thinking we have a purpose for the centerpieces once the wedding is done!
Lowes has the best prices on the block. You do have to drill the hole yourself. I have heard that Hobby Lobby has the blocks with holes already drilled in them. Good luck!
I just got the diamond core drill bit to use on my drill press. The package says to drill at a 90 degree angle. Do I really have to start drilling the hole in the glass block on an angle, or can I do it straight on without breaking the glass? I did a couple using to arrow head point bit, but the blocks have started to crack, and I have people requesting them from me! Here is a fun lighted glass block that I came up with. I used my Cricut machine to cut the vinyl.
Another way to remove the white from the edges is to use rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. I just tried it this morning and it worked well!
Also, if you are interested in another type of decoration to apply to the surface of your block, I am an Independent Demonstrator for Uppercase Living and highly recommend their self-adhesive vinyl lettering and designs! Please visit www.uppercaseliving.com. You can register for free to view the catalog online and/or create your own personalized expression(s) [your information WILL NOT be sold or shared]. Simply click the "Customer Corner Login" link at the bottom right hand corner of the page. To register, enter Demonstrator ID = 955606 and Registration Token = gilmore. From there, you can use the "contact me" link if you have any questions or would like to place an order. I just made block this morning with a 6" x 6" design from the catalog and it looks AWESOME!
Thanks Gina the fabric has wire on each side to help keep the shape. Kellie I fill the glass with water and try to get all the water out, then set it out where it can air dry. It cleans up pretty well this way.
If you have a hard time finding glass blocks, try a concrete/stone supply type store. That is where I buy mine and they are cheaper than at Lowe's or Home Depot and have more of a variety. Also, to drill them you need a diamond core drill bit. There is a guy on E-Bay that sells them for $15. I bought from him almost a year ago. I have done over 150 blocks and the bit still works great. You do need to keep it cool with water. I paint my designs on with stained glass paint that you can purchase at Michaels or Hobby Lobby. Good luck!
I live in Canada, and I purchase my glass blocks for 5.00 to 10.00 each, at home depot. I only buy about 4 at a time. The price varies depending on your size. I have alson found them at rona lumber.
There is a lot of discussion about cleaning the inside of the glass blocks out after drilling. I have drilled a couple of hundred of these blocks and though it can be time consuming, I wash each one with hot water - NO SOAP - immediately after drilling and turn them hole side down in a dish drainer. Washing this quickly will not allow the glass dust to dry inside and they just sparkle when you are done. AGAIN NO SOAP!
I do these as well. I just started doing personal ones. people send me pictures of family, and I put them on a block. I do pretty good with these. Then they give them as gifts. Michele
I would like to know how to make the bow's with the ez delux offray bow maker, I got the wooden maker at goodwill, but no instructions, if anyone has any idea how to make a easy bow I would be grateful. Then I may try the glass block they sure look nice.
Just wanted to let you know about Uppercase Living. There are great vinyl products and special seasonl items just for glass blocks. Check out uppercaseliving.com. Go to the customer corner using id#815550 and token-cusson. You will love it!
This is my first visit to this site and it's great. I've been trying to find decals that fit glass blocks. I've seen them at craft sales but the crafters have been reluctant to tell me where the get them. If anyone would like to share there sources I would be grateful. Thanks Marlene
i have seen them use a small one and large one stack them on their sides on top and make a snowman its very cute. Also if you have a business license you can buy from CWI the 20 set of led lights that burn brighter and longer with less heat here is the link to them http://www.craftwholesalers.com/index.aspx as I said you have to have a business license an the price of them is 20 light set led for $2.00 each you have to but like 10 or 25 sets cant remember for sure hope this helps you email me at gourdhead2262 AT yahoo.com
Another idea for lights that we thought we would try for my daughters wedding is using the battery operated candles that if you have a hole that is about the size of a quarter they fit right inside. That way you don't have to run extension cords down the midle of the tables to plug each block in. We thought we would use the frost paint & stencil & use the last name initial in the middle and then their first initials on each side OR do their names and wedding date. & maybe tie some wedding bells to the ribbon.
I bought a glass block at Hobby Lobby that already had the hole with a stopper like a bank has. You can buy the regular glass blocks at Home Depot & Lowes. I checked around and the best way to cut the hole in them is using a Diamond Core Drill bits size 2 1/8". I have not tried it yet but plan to. My daughter is getting married & we decided to use the glass blocks for table decorations. The ones that I decorated this christmas I used rub-on transfers and painted the back of the block with white frost paint. I also used a sealant to keep the rub-on transfers from peeling off. I usd sticky adhesive spray to attach the ribbon and lastly added the Brrr tin ornament as an accent. I used a 35 count LED Rice light string. I thought that it turned out pretty good. I found the pre-made bows at Michaels, Hobby Lobby and Garden Ridge after Christmas and stocked up for the next year so that I would have plenty.
I've made almost 8 Christmas blocks so far to give as gifts. I have had a few problems finding 35 light strands with the white cord so have had to use those with green cord. On the last one I assembled I used the incandescent shredded gift stuffing as a filler also. It was very pretty but I am concerned about the heat from the lights. I left it on all night but it didn't seem to be a problem. Are my concerns justified or can I give this gift without concern of starting a fire? Please address ASAP because Christmas is almost here.
I just got done doing ten glass blocks for Christmas and I used graphics off of my computer that I printed on vellum paper, than sprayed a craft glue onto the glass block and the back of the graphic and just put them on and put a ribbon and bow around. They turned out really neat, but I you have to be careful and not get any moisture around the graphic, because it will make the ink run off of the graphic and I don't know if a clear varathane will make the design run. Will go home and check it out and see if it works. Thanks for all the great ideas for glass blocks. Merry Christmas
I was so glad to find this discussion! I have worked with glass in different ways for several years and only recently started working with these blocks. I had no idea that so many people were doing so many different wonderful things with them. First I wanted to say that I didn't know either that they could be bought so cheaply and were so plentiful. I bought mine which are old from an architecural salvage company. My husband power sanded the gunky junk off the sides for me. I then , after much work at drilling a hole, applied cut glass to the surface to make a glass mosaic on it. I hadn't even thought about any other ideas so am delighted to have read about all your creative ones.
I do have a question. I used .. or rather my husband used a Dremel to make the hole. I 'm not sure he used the right bit. Has anyone else used a Dremel and if so what bit did you use?
Also, I have been working on an old , large glass water bottle whic h I have made an under the water scene on the surface out of glass. It was a very long labor intensive project. I have only put the lights through the top at this point to see how it would look but need to go back and do the hole at the bottom before adding too much more glass to the surface. The bottle is very thick . Does anyone have an idea about what kind of bit to use,,, more specific than just a diamond bit? I am nervous about doing this but want it finished for an art show in March. I took most of the glass off to reglue on with a different glue so now is the time to do the hole!! Thanks for any input and thanks for all the great ideas. You are all very creative!! What do you sell them for,,, I'm just curious! Diana
I started making these last year and was thrilled to find an inkjet "window cling" at Michaels, which allows me to print my design from a graphic, which in turn will clink beautifully to the block. (No need for artistic talent here!) I printed off several seasonal designs and you can easily peel off the cling and replace it with another for the next season. I have a generic "Welcome" for non-holiday times.
We found a new way to dry the water out of the blocks once you clean them out. My husband put them in the oven for about 45 minutes at 275! Worked perfectly!
I was worried that the the heat from the block might damage furniture, so I bought a pack of clear rubber like bumpers at Lowes.(12 in a pack for about $1.50) (They are located near the felt protectors that come in differant sizes.) I used the round ones, one under each corner of the block. I also tried larger rectangle ones. They both work well and blend right in with the block.
Has anyone attached two or more blocks together?? I saw a snowman light cube and it was adorable - so now I have to make one :) Just not sure how to attach the two blocks together.
use Citrustrip Orange* stripper for removing the paint on the sides. I put it on with a paint brush , I let it set 10 minutes or less then wipe off, and I use a small brass brush to get into the tiny areas, then rinse and dry, I also drill Slowly an Blow off dust as it collects, if it should get inside, add water , put finger over hole and shake, then turn it hole side down and let dry over night and its ready .Hope this helps
I found out that using Citrus Strip orange stripper with a sponge or paint brush to apply it to the white painted sides let stand 5-10 minutes, then it should Wipe off! I use a small brass brush to get into the nooks n' crannies, then rinse it off with lukewarm water and dry , and i just Drill SLOWLY and Blow off dust as it collects while drilling, if any gets into block add water, shake it, then turn it hole side down, let it drain and dry over night and your good to go, hope this helps!
I have been making these for a few years now and selling them in KY. The blocks are sold at Lowes and should be bought before the holidays because they sell out. Home Depot has to special order them and they cost more. I use 2 different sizes and use a diamond core drill bit and I just shake out the dust. Do not put alot of pressure on the block & dip your drill in water to cool it off as you drill.The lights are bought at the dollar stores or Walmart, they have 25-35 clear or colored depending on the block design I do (the light should have only 1 plug end and light on the other end & they just push right in the hole. I use a bow maker (buy at Micheals or Hobby Lobby) this goes around like a present then tie bow on with pipe cleaners. I then add some type of fall or holiday pick near the bow or some design. I sell the small blocks for $25 & the larger ones $35-45 depending what all I put on them.
What width of ribbon do you all use for these blocks? TIA! I'm making my first this Christmas as a gift for my mom with vinyl silhouettes on the fronts - I'm so excited! :)
Hello all! I am the original "plastic block" poster, they are called Acrylic Blocks and I was lucky enough to find a set at a yard sale! You have to buy the blocks in a pack of 24 or 36 on the website that First Lady mentioned, or go to Hy-lite.com and find a dealer near you. They do cost about 2x's more than the glass. If you raise your price to cover it, most buyers don't think that "plastic" should cost more than glass. I have loved using the Acrylic, but I am going to try the glass blocks on this go around.
My husband is a glazier, one who works with glass.
He said to lubricate with oil, we used plain old crisco oil. Apply every 30 seconds or so to protect your bit and the glass. If glass is breaking, you are applying too much pressure or not enough lubricant.
What is an easy way to get all the paint off the sides of the glass blocks? I have tried many things and found there is just no easy way and I was wondering if some one has the secret to this. It kills my hands trying to get it all of. Thank you!!
this is a link to ideas made with glass block that "reportedly" you can order from Home Depot. I haven't been able to find a cost of these blocks yet, but it seems that they might come in 2 halves. They have lots of things inside that you could not shove thru a hole in the side. I'll call the Home Depot later this morning and see what other info I can get.
I tried to upload the image, but for some reason I can't get it viewable in my picture files. It's a GIF. The only other option is a BMP which the group would prefer you not use. One of these pictures is a bank.
I'm in Northeastern Illinois and really don't know where to look for this stuff.I'll try Michael's and perhaps the Home Depot., I'd prefer not to pay shipping if I don't have to. I bought one of these at a craft show for $25. I asked about the lights in the event they burned out and she told me to buy a string of 20 lights and just push them thru the hole. Let them fall where they may.
I buy the ribbon at Sam's Club or Costco. They have large rolls and it's not terribly expensive.$5.99 I think. I haven't purchased any yet this year but you get LOTS of ribbon.
I want to make one with a pictures of an airplane on it. What is the preferred method to allow the light to shine thru and the best way to attach it to the glass?
Thanks to everyone for this post. These are sooo pretty.
I'm in Northeastern Illinois and really don't know where to look for this stuff. I'll try Michael's and perhaps the Home Depot. I'd prefer not to pay shipping if I don't have to. I bought one of these at a craft show for $25. I asked about the lights in the event they burned out and she told me to buy a string of 20 lights and just push them thru the hole. Let them fall where they may.
I buy the ribbon at Sam's Club or Costco. They have large rolls and it's not terribly expensive.$5.99 I think. I haven't purchased any yet this year but you get LOTS of ribbon.
I want to make one with a pictures of an airplane on it. What is the preferred method to allow the light to shine thru and the best way to attach it to the glass? Thanks to everyone for this post. These are sopretty. Susie
OK. This is serious!! No matter where I look, I can't find any information on how to drill the slot for a glass block bank! Please help me ! I get so many requests for them but would like to be pointed in the right direction as far as drill bit. They are to expensive to experiment with. Any helpful hints would be most appreciated, too! Thanks, Suzanne
I need to know where I can purchase premade bows for the light blocks. I found a place last year but their website is no longer available. Can anyone help?
I am new to this, but I have used the glass blocks for my Halloween decoration by using the 100 light strands in orange and adding three strands/blocks together and lined my driveway with it. They did not get very hot, on the other hand this was outside in cooler temperature. I intend to make some indoor ones for gifts as well, and had the idea of using window cling for decoration on it, you can print them out with various pictures/designs on your printer and they should attach nicely to it. The benefit of the window cling would be that the design can be changed for each holiday and the person receiving the gift does not have to store one for each holiday for their deco. Did anyone try that already?
By the way for the dust in them after drilling, try those vaccuum attachment for the computers, they attach right to your vaccuum and are small enough to get through these kind of holes.
To rcpeters, GREAT JOB! I have never seen two stacked like that but it looks great! Did you also do the artwork on the face? The hat and scarf are a great touch. Congratulations on such cool creativity! On those acrylic blocks, I checked around my area and Hobby Lobby manager had no idea what I was asking about. JoAnns Etc. had never heard of them either. I'll try Michaels' tomorrow and we have another store, A. C. Moore that I'll try. If I locate any, I'll post the information on this site. I just bought the "hole saw" drill bit for our drill. We'll try it out and let you know how it works for us. Keep up the thread folks!
I am making glass blocks. They are drilled better with a drill press (slow speed) or they break. Drill with lots of water and not too much pressure on drill bit.
Believe it or not, I use a "hammer Drill" to get the hole started and finish it with the "regular' electric drill. Then I take a dremill smooth out the hole and buff as well. Nice smooth edge. My 2 drill bits have lasted 2 years!! Probably have made of 40 blocks..
Is there a certain kind of glass block to use for these beautiful lights? I have been to a shop that sells them and to a glass man and both have told me that it is impossible to do without breaking them! Well I know for sure that this isn't true since so many of you have done it successfully but I still would like to know for sure if there is a special kind before I attempt to make them. People here don't tend to think outside the box so I am hoping that I can find someone to attempt to drill the holes for me. Thank you all for the great ideas; I just MUST make some of these for our Christmas bazaar this year. Lisingreece
About the battery operated lights: I used a string of 10 lights in an 8X8X3 block for my daughter's dining room table and it turned out to be the perfect amount of light. I hid the battery holder under the back of the block and when turned on, with the lights out, the block is really beautiful. She is anxious to use it when the whole family comes over for Thanksgiving dinner. I can recommend using the battery operated lights.
I checked this website and they do have the acrylic blocks. However, they only sell in case lots and the shipping alone is $25. I also checked the www.Hy-Lite.com site and even called the factory only to find out that all of the locations they list in my area as distributors can only distribute if they order them and they have to be ordered in case lots also.An individual cannot order from them. It has to go through one of their distributors. It would be great to have a lighter weight block, however, I am not ready to buy in cases yet. But, if anyone out there is looking for the place to get them, hope this helps. Here's a fun one I made for my hairdressers' little girl's room. She love pink and purple and butterflys. I just finished one with Dora the Explorer doll on it and another one with Spiderman, his car, and some spiders on it. They were fun to make. Let's keep this thread going as it has helped a lot of people who like these blocks.
Most major chain craft stores have the plastic blocks with holes predrilled in them. Michael's craft store, Hobby Lobby, Crafts 2000( also known as Pat Cratan)
As for the lights, Myself I'd just shove them in there and let them lay helter skelter like.
I recently went to a craft show where the Christmas blocks were plastic. I would love to make some for our church bazaar next year, but can't find where to order the blocks from. Does anyone know? Thanks, Becky
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