Creative Vase Fillers to Enhance Your Home Decor

May 16, 2025

Glass vases are stunning decor pieces that bring elegance and versatility into any space. But what often elevates their impact is what goes inside them. If you've ever looked at an empty glass vase and wondered, "What should I put in here?", you're not alone. From natural textures to colourful add-ons, fillers can transform a plain glass vase into a design statement. Whether you're sprucing up a coffee table, styling a wedding centrepiece, or just adding something charming to your bathroom shelf, there's a vase filler for every look and mood.

Key Takeaways

Vase fillers add visual interest and texture to your decor scheme.
Glass vases can be filled with both practical and artistic materials like sand, artificial flowers, and pebbles.
Choose fillers based on colour theme, seasonal look, or the vibe you want to create.
Artificial plants and flowers offer a fuss-free way to style your vase permanently.
You can combine different fillers for layered, dynamic arrangements.

Why Use Fillers for Glass Vases?

Glass vases are beautiful in their simplicity—but that also means they can sometimes feel a bit plain when empty. That’s where fillers come in handy. They give the vase more character and bring your overall room design together. In fact, I've got a clear vase in my lounge that's constantly changing—sometimes with dry citrus slices in winter and glass pebbles in summer—and it always draws compliments!

“Think of vase fillers as jewellery for your home. You’re not hiding the glass; you’re enhancing it with just the right accessories.”

Types of Vase Fillers

1. Artificial Flowers and Greenery

One of the most popular and effective vase fillers is artificial plants or flowers. They're low-maintenance, long-lasting, and trendy. Products like the Artificial Yellow Tulip bring a fresh, springtime look—even in the middle of winter.

Pair them with a touch of greenery or a branch with interesting textures, like the Magnolia Leaves Branch, for extra impact.

2. Natural Fillers: Stones, Pebbles & Sand

Natural elements work beautifully with transparent vases. Layer small white pebbles for a clean and beachy feel, or pour in some river stones for a more grounded, earthy vibe. You can also experiment with coloured sand for a boho style or create a desert-themed look with succulents and sand layers.

3. Decorative Items to Add Personality

If you're aiming for something more whimsical or playful, don’t be afraid to use small decorative items. Glass marbles, wooden beads, tiny action figures for a kids’ room—the options are honestly endless. Have fun with it!

“Mixing different textures and colour tones inside a clear vase can tell a story. Think seasonal themes—dried pods and cinnamon sticks in autumn, shells and coral in summer.”

4. Fabric and Scarves

Here’s something a little unexpected: use soft fabrics like scarves or ribbon. Simply coil them at the bottom of a vase for a pop of colour and texture. A great option is the Polyester Scarf with Proteas, which brings a distinctly South African feel while softening any hard edges.

Layering Your Fillers: A Style Secret

One easy trick I live by: layering. Try placing small stones at the bottom, adding a fake stem, then surrounding it with artificial moss or sand. These layers give depth and make your vase look like something out of a decor magazine.

Don’t forget, your vase filler system can act as a base for statement pieces too. Something like the Gold Hour Glass can stand next to your display and tie everything together with a luxe vibe.

Great Places to Use Vase Fillers in Your Home

Living Room: Coffee tables, bookcases, TV stands
Kitchen: Island centrepieces or shelves with rustic charm
Bathroom: Bring in a spa feel with eucalyptus and pebbles in a vase
Bedroom: Add romance with rose petals or dried lavender

Shop the Look at Future Decor

We’ve curated a wide range of lovely vases and fillers you can use right away. Browse our full collection of vases to find your perfect match. You might also want to read up on more home styling ideas in our recent blog post about decorative accessories that elevate any space.

Conclusion

Glass vases are blank canvases, and vase fillers are your palette. Whether you're going for a classic, modern, rustic, or playful look, the right filler can make all the difference. It's a fun, affordable way to refresh any corner of your home—and almost addictive once you get into it. Try experimenting with different materials and seasonal themes to see just how dramatically you can transform your space with one simple vase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best vase fillers for a glass vase in a modern home?

For a modern aesthetic, go with minimal fillers like white stones, metallic beads, or simple artificial flowers like tulips or violets. These offer clean lines and understated elegance.

Can I mix different types of vase fillers together?

Absolutely! Mixing pebbles, faux plants, and decorative items gives your arrangement more depth and personality. Just keep your colour palette cohesive for the best results.

Are artificial flowers a good long-term solution for vase fillers?

Yes, artificial flowers are ideal for long-term decor. They're low maintenance, always look fresh, and offer a wide array of styles and colours to suit any room.

How do I stop fillers from shifting inside my vase?

Heavier items like pebbles and layered elements help anchor lighter pieces in place. You can also use floral foam or weighted bases to keep stems from wobbling inside the vase.

Do glass vase fillers work in outdoor spaces?

Yes! Just choose weather-resistant fillers like large stones, faux succulents, or sand. Avoid delicate fabrics or paper fillers in outdoor areas, as they won’t hold up well to the elements.