Have you ever stumbled upon a beautiful old plate or teacup at a flea market and wondered what you’d actually do with it? It doesn’t quite match your everyday dinnerware, or perhaps it’s too delicate for daily use. Dust off those gorgeous finds, because vintage dishes are so much more versatile than you might think! vintage plates can add a touch of unique charm and personality to your home beyond just setting the table. Let’s explore five fun and functional ways to incorporate vintage plates and dishes into your vintage home decor.
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how to use vintage plates in your home decor
Charming Catch-All Trays for Small Items
Those lovely little saucers and shallow bowls from vintage tea sets are perfect for corralling all those little bits and bobs that tend to clutter surfaces. Place a delicate floral saucer on your entryway table to hold keys and loose change. Small, elegant dishes on your nightstand can keep your jewelry safe while you sleep. These vintage dish organization ideas are not only practical but also add a touch of vintage flair to even the most mundane tasks.
Wall Art with a Story: Creating a Vintage Plate Gallery Wall
A display of mismatched vintage plates can create a stunning and eye-catching gallery wall, therefore look for plates with interesting patterns, colors, or even scenes. You can find specialized plate hangers like these, that make it easy to display them without damaging your walls or the dishes. This is a fantastic way to showcase your vintage kitchen wall decor or add a whimsical touch to any room with vintage plate wall art.
Stylish Drip Dishes for Your Green Friends
Give your beloved indoor plants a touch of vintage elegance! Instead of plain plastic saucers, use a pretty vintage plate or shallow bowl as a drip dish. Not only does it catch excess water, protecting your furniture, but it also adds a decorative element to your plant display. Imagine a vibrant fern sitting atop a delicate china plate – a truly charming vintage dish for indoor plants solution! Just make sure the dish is glazed to prevent water damage to the ceramic over time.
Unique Serving Pieces for Special Occasions
While you might not use your vintage dishes for everyday meals, they can truly shine when you’re entertaining. A beautiful antique platter is perfect for serving appetizers or desserts. A vintage teacup can be used to hold dips or sauces. These pieces add a touch of old-world charm to your gatherings and are sure to be conversation starters. Think about using a tiered cake stand made of vintage plates for your next afternoon tea – a truly vintage serving ware statement!
Decorative Displays and Centerpieces
Vintage dishes can also be used simply for their aesthetic appeal. Arrange a collection of colorful bowls on a shelf. You can create a unique centerpiece for your dining table with a stack of mismatched plates and a few candles or small decorative objects. A vintage compote dish can be filled with fruit or flowers for a beautiful and timeless display. These vintage dish display ideas allow you to appreciate their beauty even when they’re not being used functionally.
where to buy old dishes
- Antique Stores: Often have a wide selection of unique and high-quality vintage pieces.
- Thrift Stores: A more budget-friendly option where you can often find hidden treasures.
- Flea Markets and Vintage Fairs: Great for discovering unique finds and negotiating prices.
- Estate Sales: Can be a goldmine for complete sets or individual pieces with history.
- Online Marketplaces (like Etsy and eBay): Offer a vast selection from sellers all over the world, perfect for finding specific styles or completing sets.
The next time you spot a charming vintage dish, don’t hesitate to bring it home! With a little creativity, you can find countless ways to incorporate these beautiful pieces into your vintage inspired home decor.