Ideas on How to Fill Clear Glass Vases

Flowers and Herbs

• Dried flowers, petals, fresh flowers and artificial blooms create dynamic arrangements with classic elegance. Blend fresh and silk blossoms for a variety of textures, and line the inside of the vase with a mix of fresh and dried petals for a multilayered look.

  Gather fresh and dried herbs, and tie with bits of twine or raffia to create bundles for a primitive decor style. Aromatics like lavender or mint mixed with natural curled tings or painted tings--curlicues of natural materials that accent bouquets or arrangements--in off-white and soft pastels form arrangements that complement neutral decor.

Trinkets and Buttons

• Antique buttons, small action figures, blocks and loose beads make fun and whimsical decor for older children's rooms or as fun party decor. Low, round vases with rubber balls in a variety of neon colors or tall, slim vessels full of glowing swizzle sticks bring color to a child's party decor and can double as party favors. Use buttons, wooden thread spools and other sewing notions as decoration in a hobby room, or mix paint brushes with crayons and colored pencils in cylindrical vases for a child's arts and crafts room.

Natural Elements

• Pine cones, crab apples, sliced lemons or sea glass all create contemporary-looking and trendy natural pieces to serve as focal points in kitchens and bathrooms. Top hurricane vases with netting to protect summer party centerpieces full of sliced fruits and vegetables.

  Sea glass, sand dollars and shells make stylish decor for a beach party, wedding or mantelpiece decorations at a lake house. Surround with raffia and sea weed to style a long table at an anniversary or shower. Mix with sea glass and pebbles for a more organic design.

Live Plants and Fish

• Betta fish do well in simple bowls or containers and look beautiful in fancy clear vases, especially when topped with ivy or similar plants. Fill the bottom of the vase with rainbow pebbles or aquarium rocks and accent the plant with butterfly clips or artificial birds. Top a low vase-turned-fishbowl with an artificial plant exploding with silk flower blossoms that coordinate with the fish's colors. Use artificial lilies, daisies or anemones to add color to offices or classrooms.

Holiday Decor Ideas

• Christmas ornaments, dreidels and gold coins, Mardi Gras beads or conversation hearts make fun and interesting decorations for kitchen tables or general party decor. Use champagne poppers and party blowers or noisemakers for a New Year's Eve centerpiece that doubles as party favors for guests.

  Plastic, ceramic or wooden Easter eggs create a variety of looks for Easter decor, especially when used in shaped glass vases or low bowl-type vases. Similarly, live clover plants topped with small Irish flags are fun conversation starters for a St. Patrick's Day party.