How to Use Decorative Glass Bowls - The Design Guide

Decorative glass bowls have always been a common part of our home décor. We use them to hold our keys or trinkets, to serve fruits, or simply because they look pretty. They’re not the same as utilitarian glasses, which were only made to serve a functional purpose.

Decorative glass bowls are both for decoration and function, but it all depends on the style and how you showcase them. In this article, you will learn more about decorative glass bowls and how you can make the most out of each piece.

Where Is Decorative Glass Made?

The art of glassmaking has been around for thousands of years. However, as time passed, many countries and regions became popular for their glassmaking practices. Some notable areas include the following:

1.      Italy

Italy is mostly known for its Murano glass craftsmanship, which features intricate, colorful designs. Glassmakers in Italy use numerous techniques, such as Sommerso and Millefiori to create beautiful patterns and layers. Italian glassware is made using manual techniques, which adds even more to its value. 

2.     Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is known for its multiple forms of artistic glass, including interesting bowls, but Bohemian glass is the most famous of them all. This is mostly because of the natural resource abundance found in the countryside. During the Renaissance period, Czech glassmakers created colorful glass bowls known for their clarity and elegance, with lots of gold decoration and over-the-top, opulent designs. These were prized by the nobility and merchant class that had the wealth to purchase them, and today they are popular with collectors, fetching good value at auctions.

3.     Scandinavia

Unlike the Czech Republic and Italy, glass in Scandinavia is known for its minimalist style combined with functionality. Glass bowls made in countries such as Sweden and Finland are known for their discreet yet elegant coloring, along with their clear lines. These fit well in a modern or contemporary home design.

4.    The United States

The United States made a reputation for blazing the “experimentalist” path. This is where the Studio Glass movement started, allowing artisans to work from small studios without onerous equipment rather than from large factory settings with expensive large furnaces. The American glass artisans enjoyed this newfound freedom of creativity and implementation, and most of the handmade glass bowls produced here have shapes and designs you won’t likely see anywhere else. From abstract forms to distinctive colors, glassmaking in the U.S. adds an innovative touch to years of tradition.

Types of Decorative Glass Craftsmanship

Glass artisans make decorative glass bowls using various techniques, including the following:

1.      Handmade Glass

Handmade glass is the process of molding hot glass into the desired shape by hand, using different tools. Some techniques include pressing the glass into a mold, especially when the artist wants to create a set. The resulting bowls are one-of-a-kind, which makes them more valuable.

2.     Blown Glass

Blown glass is one of the most popular ways to make decorative glass bowls with colorful swirls and patterns. The technique is most common in Italy, where Venetian glassmakers use a blowpipe to turn the glass into a bubble. Artisans also combine it with casting to maintain consistent thickness in every section. Traditional glass-blown bowls have imperfections that add to their charm, making them highly sought after.

3.     Factory-Made Glass

Perfectionists seek mass-produced bowls frequently, as they are created using molds. This ensures that each item has a uniform design and shape. They are easier to make compared to blown or handmade glass, making them cheaper as well. That said, they do not have as many artistic details, so they’re not as special as other pieces.

Glass Bowl Styles to Consider

Glass bowls come in different shapes and styles, regardless of the techniques used to make them. The choice depends on your decorative goals, along with your preferred aesthetic.

Some common choices include the following:

1.      Stained Glass Bowls

Stained glass bowls start as clear glass during the manufacturing process, but artisans add metallic salts throughout it. Their color is not opaque, which means that light will pass through them. This creates a beautiful visual effect when placed somewhere that catches light.

2.     Minimalist Glass Bowls

Nowadays, people go for a style called “relaxed minimalism”, choosing simple yet beautiful décor pieces. This preference extended into the world of glassmaking, with artisans creating pieces with neutral tones and simple designs. Minimalist glass bowls are made in one or two colors at most, with an elegant shape that fits contemporary décor.

3.     Murano Glass Bowls

Murano glass bowls are all about the vibrant colors and the intricate patterns. These are usually made with the blowing technique, which offers them different depths while keeping them lightweight. Aside from the bright color layers, Murano glass bowls commonly have swirling or asymmetrical shapes.

4.    Crystal Glass Bowls

Crystal glass bowls are favored for their clarity and are a longstanding symbol of luxury. These pieces are commonly produced in the Czech Republic, but other places such as Ireland or Egypt also produce such items. Some common crystal glass bowl details include engravings and pattern cuts, which allow for unparalleled brilliance and shine. Crystal bowls and other pieces, such as wine glasses and vases, make a great choice for an elegant setting. 

5.     Pedestal Bowls

Unlike the usual types of bowls, pedestal bowls have a raised base. Some are thin, like the flute of a champagne glass, whereas others have a larger base. You can use them to display anything from flowers, fruits, and decorative objects. Their height offers more elegance and personality, especially when placed on a lower area such as a table.

Tips to Use Decorative Glass Bowls

Decorative glass bowls are versatile, which means that you can get creative with how you use them. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started, but feel free to experiment:

1.      A Centerpiece on the Dining Table

If you have a dining or kitchen table that could use a kick, you can make it more elegant by placing an artistic glass bowl in the middle. Pedestal bowls are a good choice, but classic bowl designs are also beautiful and will attract attention for their elegance and European style. You can place fruits, flowers, shells, or decorative rocks in it to make the bowl stand out.

2.     A Decorative Piece on a Desk

Do you often throw your keys or small items in random spots on your desk or in drawers? In that case, consider placing a decorative glass bowl on the desk. This helps you organize the area while making it look more sophisticated. A deeper glass bowl is a better choice if you have multiple items, but the choice is up to you.

3.     A Statement Piece on a Shelf

A beautiful decorative glass can easily make a bookcase or shelf come to life. If there’s a spot that looks relatively empty or dark, place a bowl there and let it catch some light. Put it on the lower point of the bookshelf if you want to display things such as your shell collection. On the other hand, consider putting it in a higher spot if you want it to double as a hiding spot for different items.

4.    A Seasonal Display

Decorative bowls can be used to display seasonal items, creating a specific vibe in the house. For example, you can use them around Easter for decorative eggs or intricate chocolate pieces. If it’s winter, consider filling them with pinecones or Christmas decorations. Be creative when you choose the display items, so they match the season.

5.     A Gift for Someone Special

Most people prefer practical gifts, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. Since decorative glass bowls double as both functional and decorative pieces, you can offer them as a housewarming or wedding gift. Bowls are often passed down through generations, so there’s a good chance the recipient of the gift may enjoy value from it later.

The Case for Decorative Glass Bowls

Glass bowls have always been cherished in home décor due to their gracefulness and beautiful designs. Whether you choose to keep them or give them as a gift, they can light up a house while serving a purpose. Have fun exploring different types of glass bowls from various countries and regions, modern or vintage, heavy or light, to find one that matches your personality and style!