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HELP with glass totems Pleeeeeeeaaaaaase

14 years ago

HI,

I'm in the process of making my first totem. I've put 3 pieces together but I'm guessing I have to wait til these have dried before I attach anymore? Also, how do you get the silicone so smooth and invisible? I'm finding it very difficult to make it neat, or should I not worry so much about that? Will it be more clear and invisible once it's dried? At the moment it's a milky colour but it's says "clear" on the tube. I'm also having a hard time thinking that the silicone will actually hold these heavy pieces together.

Hope someone can clear these things up for me.

Cheers

Tracey

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Comments (7)

desertrat1
14 years ago
Tracey,
Sometimes I play with them to see which ones naturally go together and then glue those. Soemtimes I do two of three sets and after those are good and set I'll add them to another set. I've used boxes or 5 gallon buckets with towels to prop them while drying. Also, the silicone--well I just have to say that it will take practice and getting use to how it comes out of the tube and how it sets for you. I think we all have to go through a learnign process. If you cannot get straight lines with the glue or too much oozes out the sides I'd incorporate using Q-tips to clean it up a bit. But that can make it worse too. Have you seen my website and my Garden Creations? Here's a link.
Let us know how it all turns out.
Love, Jules

Here is a link that might be useful: Jules' Website
katishooked
14 years ago
Tracey, Jules pretty much said it. If my totems are a bit tall or the pieces are not exactly flat, I do glue pieces, let them cure a day or so and then put the whole thing together. Otherwise I hust glue away as I go. The glue will be virtually invisible when it dries. And if I get sloppy I use pieces of paper towels or pop sticks to clean the glue up. Good luck. As someone said once, your pieces may not be perfect, but that is part of the charm that makes them enjoyable.
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I recently saw the glass totems at a local garden show and would like and am trying to make my own. I just finished this evening trying to "glue" the pieces together using GE Silicone II (only I used the type for Kitchen and Bath -- my husband picked it up for me) -- don't seem to see a great deal of difference in reading the labels other than the mildew issue, but perhaps you have more input as to why the Window and Door type is better. When you use the sealant, how much do you apply and how long does it take to set up (the label doesn't provide this information -- with the multiple pieces the complete totem seems like it will be quite heavy and will require a really strong bond. I am just so afraid of not having the bond hold strong enough when moving it or placing it in the garden. I thought I'd give as gifts, but I would be horrified to have the pieces fall apart easily. I also thought of using epoxy, but the application of having to mix the two parts together doesn't sound feasible -- especially if I want to make several. Any advise you can give me would be most appreciated. Another question, you mention re-rod for the post -- will the totem sit straight with just the re-rod stuck up through the bud vase at the bottom or how do you do this application. I am so thankful for your help. I love the photos -- they are most helpful as well. Many thanks in advance.
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Thanks for the website. That's handy info. I just tried to upload a picture but it was rejected due to size. I'll have to play with it and see if I can reduce the size. But believe me there is nothing to drool over. I love it though.
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Hi gardencraze, The glue to use is GE Silicone II for windows and doors. It works great. I made a couple totems a few years back and they are still happy out in the garden. You may want to visit the Garden Junk forum. They are full of ideas and a wealth of information. Good luck with your pieces and make sure to post pictures of your creations when you are done.
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mzclassic
14 years ago
You have already gotten some good advise and mine is the same...I have used GE II for many years and it just takes a little practice is all. And yes, it will hold a lot better than you think it will. Have fun and please show us photos when your done.
Donna in Florida
Marlene Kindred
14 years ago
Ditto on the above advice. I usually glue a couple of pieces together and let them dry really well before putting the entire piece together. I have also used masking tape to hold the "tops" in place once it's put on. I usually leave mine alone for at least a week before moving it. And, the silicone will clear up some as it dries. I also take my finger and wipe the excess off and smooth out the lines. Then, wipe off my hands with a dry, old towel.

Good luck! I'm sure it will be fine...that silicone is some tough stuff too!
desertrat1
14 years ago
Tracey, I forgot to mention thatI have several pieces in my backyard. Have had them there for years and they are still together! Time with tell you how good the stuff holds up.
Pictures please!
Love, Jules
nonacook
14 years ago
As Marlene said use your fingers to smoothe the lines if needed. However, I wipe with a wet finger during that process!
mrsdutchy
Original Author
14 years ago
Thank you for all of your wonderful information. I have put my pieces together and am so happy with how it looks. I've just got to wait a few days for it all to dry and then I'll put it in my garden somewhere. I have taken some pics of it already, couldn't wait to share lol. I'll put them in another post.
CHeers
Tracey

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