what should I use to bond sand/shells/bark etc to decorate a glass candle container?

Answer 1

Use an industrial grade instant adhesive, such as Loctite.
You could also use a two part epoxy-resin such as Aroldite.
These should both be available at your local hardware, and remember you get what you pay for so don't buy the cheap gear 'cos it won't hold.

Answer 2

As number 1 states an epoxy would work best, though it is glass and I wouldn't think of this as a forever thing.

The epoxy can be applied thick enough to press the items into it, and should be done in stages (small areas at a time)

It's likely clear enough to not be a discoloration issue, and sets pretty rapidly.

I like the idea, and it brought back a memory.

I painted a womans house in Washington state. She was an artist and writer, widowed for many years. She was also a beach comber and especially collected beach glass.

On the front face of her house was a large picture window, on which, over the course of time, she created a mural, of a seascape/beach scene, using the chips of glass and epoxy glue.

Anyway good luck with your project.

Steven Wolf

Answer 3

I would try good ol' Elmer's glue for the sand and a hot melt glue gun for the rest.

Answer 4

5-minute epoxy in one of those squeeze syringes will work well for you. You can pick it up at an hardware store or Walmart.

Answer 5

Check out www.thistothat.com. It will let you know what kind of glue to use to adhere different things together. Very helpful site.
Hope this helps..