1. Using your screwdriver, unscrew the
long, threaded metal rod holding the metal top onto the gumball
machine. Remove the threaded rod completely.
2. Remove the metal lid, and carefully
lift off the glass globe.
3. Remove the inner workings of the
gumball machine. This may require the additional removal of
screws, depending on the type of gumball machine you're working
with.
4. Once you have your gumball machine
disassembled, you will keep the metal base, the glass globe, and
the metal lid. The rest (the inner workings, threaded rod,
etc.) can be discarded.
5. Take the metal base and the glass
globe to your local glass supplier, and have them cut a circle of
glass that fits over the bottom opening of the glass globe.
You will also need to ensure that this glass circle fits inside
the metal base. There should be a narrow lip just inside the
top of the metal base that the glass sits on.
6. Turn the glass globe upside down.
Place a steady bead of silicone aquarium sealant along the top
edge of the opening. Try to get the bead of silicone as even
all the way around as possible.
7. Gently place the glass circle on
the silicone. Press down firmly and evenly to ensure that
contact is made all the way around, and to be sure that there are
no bubbles in the silicone. However, do not press too hard!!
A layer of silicone MUST remain between the glass globe edge and
the glass circle.
8. Set aside and let the silicone dry
completely (about 24 hours).
9. When it's completely dry, fill with
water and check for leaks.
10. Use the razor blade to remove any excess
buildup of silicone, and to remove any silicone that may have
gotten on the glass globe.
11. Set the glass globe onto the metal base, and
place the plastic plant and glass marbles inside the glass globe.
12. Add water and fish (in that order!),
replace metal top on gumball machine, and enjoy!
