This is a sealed vase that was my mother's. It was given to her in the late 30s-40s when she opened her first beauty shop. It has a cork that has fallen to the bottom, and appears is sealed with wax. I would like to replace the liquid that has evaporated. Would it be mineral oil? Can I just open it and add additional oil? I do not want to disturb the flowers.
Since this vase has such special meaning have you thought about trying to find someone that can do a special job for you?
I have 'repaired' several snow globes and it can get scary sometimes as the small pieces do not always stay attached and have to be reglued before the liquid can be added.
Also, sometimes the interior of the globe will be dirty and if not cleaned the new liquid contents will be dirty looking.
Your vase may need a little cleaning but everything will be fragile so be very gentle no matter how you plan to refill it.
I called several florist shops in my city and found one person who had worked with flowers similar to yours and she said that if the liquid has been dried up for a long time, the flowers may be brittle and may break apart so be prepared to find small pieces in the vase but hopefully the largest parts will remain intact.
You have a lovely vase and hopefully, the renewal will turn out great and can stand in a place of honor in remembrance of your mother.
The glass vase is narrow, so first make sure the flowers are strong enough to survive the liquid change.
Use half water and half glycerin. Heat the water, add the glycerin and wait for it to boil. Cool and then add to your flowers.
Don't forget to seal the vase with a waterproof sealant.
I found this information on preserving flowers w/ 1 part glycerin & 2 parts lukewarm water:
www.hellolidy.com/
www.lushome.com/
(I think I would try to tilt the glass vase, then very carefully & slowly pour the liquid down the side of it to keep the flowers from being as undisturbed as possible.)
You can learn to replace with glycerine and dye here. bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/
Very helpful article, thank you. Now I just need to collect the products and get the courage to try it!
You can use Glycerin, and other home made types of liquid to replenish your container, these can also be used to make snow globes - There are several recipes to choose from depending on the need , even natural ways- www.handlebar-online.com/
