Create environmentally friendly glassware from your favorite brew! Making recycled cups from beer bottles is economical as well as sustainable -- you just need a bottle cutter and a few things you have around the house (stand by with the cocktails).
When selecting bottles for this project avoid glass with embossed lettering or designs around the area you'll be cutting the bottle. Rinse out bottles and remove any paper labels before beginning this project.
Step 1 Score Bottles
After measuring cut lines on your bottle, adjust your bottle cutter so that the etching blade lines up with your measured mark.
Etch around the entire circumference of the bottle several times to create a deep groove in the glass surface.
Step 2 Separate Neck
Alternately submerge the bottle's score in an ice bath and then in boiling water a few minutes at a time. As a fissure develops along your score line you might hear a quiet crack or popping noise. Continue alternating between the two temperatures until the bottle's neck separates completely.
Step 3 Sand Edges
Spend several minutes sanding any rough or sharp edges on your freshly cut glass to be sure your cups are safe for drinking.
Step 4 Wash and Serve
Give your glasses a thorough wash to remove any dust from sanding. Fill your new cups with a fresh cocktail or root beer float!
Create large glasses for smoothies and shakes with 22 Ounce bottles, or use a 12 Ounce size for small juice glasses. If you want to dress up label-less cups try adding monograms or designs with glass etching creme.
Need help finding a good bottle cutter? Find the perfect brew with a groovy label? Leave questions and resources in the comments section below.