When a light bulb in your home goes out, you likely unscrew it and toss it in the trash, replacing it with a brand-new, working bulb. However, next time, maybe you’ll think twice before throwing out the dead light bulb. Electric lighting is something most of us take for granted, but the crafty ideas for repurposing light bulbs that you’ll find below may give you a whole new appreciation for your old light bulb.
It is no secret that our society today is a wee bit DIY crazy, and we’re not complaining! People have really gotten into recycling and reusing old household items, run-down furniture and other items most people think of as junk. But it doesn’t stop there; there are tons of creative and innovative ways to upcycle objects, such as light bulbs, into something useful and aesthetically pleasing. From terrariums and ornaments to cases and candy containers, your options are endless when it comes to repurposing a light bulb you otherwise would’ve given to the Dumpster gods.
Here are a few of our favorite projects to turn dead or useless light bulbs into fun and inspiring pieces for your home. Hey, you may even think about giving them to your friends and loved ones as a gift this year!
Light Bulb Preparation
Before you start any of these projects, you need to remove the inside pieces of the light bulb. Because you need to break some glass (and may accidentally break the bulb) this part of the project should be done by adults only. Wear goggles and gloves; it’s a good idea to do this over a box or an open bag to catch any glass fragments. Here’s a short video that walks you through the steps of hollowing out a light bulb for your projects.
Light Bulb Terrarium
This is probably our favorite, as these mini terrariums are just so darn cool. Simply unscrew the part that connects the light bulb and add some succulent dirt, rocks or moss. Once you’ve done that, pick out your favorite air plant and wiggle it in there. And just like that, you have a super-cool mini terrarium.
Hanging Flowers
If you want to display your favorite flowers in your home but are sick and tired of the traditional vase, consider using an old light bulb. After you clean it out, fill it halfway with water and add a flower or two through a hole in the threaded connector (the metal part that screws in). Attach string or wire and you have a beautiful and unique way to hang and display your flowers.
Light Bulb Oil Lamp
Transforming a light bulb that has died into another source of light is super clever and fun! Go old-school and make an oil lamp by using paraffin-based lamp oil and a solid wick. Be mindful around the open flame and very careful when filling the bulb with oil. Once you’re done, you will have a creative and warming way to illuminate any space in your home.
Light Bulb Spice Containers
Another fun way to transform light bulbs into something completely outside the box is by turning them into spice containers. Simply replace the threaded connector with a wooden cork and use a piece of wood with cutout inserts to display and support the spices. You will surely be the envy of all your friends with this crafty repurposed bulb project!
There are many ways to reuse and repurpose items you would normally have thrown out; all you have to do is dig a little deeper into your creative side!