Trash to Treasure: 6 Creative Ways to Upcycle Stained Glass Scraps

Let's face it - making stuff means making waste.  We try to keep it to a minimum, but it happens.  Stained glass scraps don’t have to be trash. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a DIY enthusiast, those leftover bits of glass can become something functional and beautiful.

Instead of tossing scraps, why not turn them into mosaics, jewelry, or home décor? It’s a fun way to repurpose materials and add a unique touch to your projects.  

This isn’t a step-by-step guide—just plenty of inspiration to get you started!

1. Mosaics & Freeform Art

Turn glass scraps into stunning mosaics! Use them to design:


  • Wall art

  • Custom picture frames

  • Unique stepping stones

Mix and match colors, textures, and shapes to create something one-of-a-kind. Read more about mosaics here.


2. Faux Sea Glass Art

With a rock tumbler, you can transform glass scraps into frosted, beachy faux sea glass—perfect for:

  • DIY jewelry

  • Home décor

  • Art projects that need a soft, sea-worn look


3. Epoxy & Resin Art 

Epoxy or resin and shattered glass scraps are a perfect match! Try embedding them in resin to create:

  • Coasters

  • Trays

  • Jewelry

The glass shards add an eye-catching, light-catching effect! 


4. Home Decor Ideas
Close up view of a potted plant with cultured sea glass pieces instead of sand or stones

Glass scraps can elevate everyday items. Some ideas:

  • Fill vases or jars with colorful glass bits

  • Make DIY wind chimes from stained glass pieces

  • Use tumbled glass as a unique accent in home décor


5. DIY Jewelry: Girls Night In

Want to make a one-of-a-kind statement piece? Stained glass scraps can be transformed into:

  • Earrings

  • Necklaces

  • Bracelets

Host a jewelry-making night or create personalized gifts. Grab DIY jewelry supplies and start crafting!


6. Stepping Stones & Garden Decor
3 colorful fused glass pendants on a mirrored surface

Brighten your outdoor space with stained glass scraps! Use them for:

  • Custom stepping stones

  • Tumbled glass accents in flower pots or garden beds

Stained glass adds a beautiful color to any garden project. Shop stained glass here.


Get Creative with Your Glass Scraps!

From functional home décor to eye-catching mosaics, leftover glass holds so much creative potential.  Looking for supplies? I have, ready to ship:

Stained glass scraps – 2 lb boxes with a variety of colors & textures

Faux sea glass – 8 oz bags of tumbled glass (frosted)

Colorful pieces of scrap glass for crafting, coins to show scale


What’s Next?

I’ll be sharing more ideas and tutorials soon! Whether you're making mosaics, jewelry, or experimenting with resin, stay tuned for step-by-step guides. And, check out my handy materials list!

Have a project idea? Share your creations with me! Drop a comment or tag me on social media—I’d love to see what you make!


TCAG Thomas Critchlow Art Glass logo


Until next time,

Ailsa


psst... need a quick rundown on stained glass tools?  Read this article next.

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