The Altered Egos of Dishware: Functional, Smashing & Transformative

Transforming a vintage dish into a new and functional item not only revives fresh life into forgotten pieces but also adds romantic charm to your space. Dishfunctional’s vintage treasures offer a world of possibilities for creative upcycling projects. Here are eight inspiring ideas to turn those vintage dishes into unique creations:

Design a Wall Decoration:

Arrange a collection of vintage dishes in an artful display on your wall. Mix and match patterns, colors, and sizes to create an eye-catching collage. This eclectic wall decoration adds character and a touch of nostalgia to any room.

Vintage dishes arranged in the shape of a heart

WALL DECORATION Photo by: Sunrise Valley Farm Co. Tap Here to explore wall collage ideas on Pinterest

Create a Colorful Message:

Paint the centers of a group of vintage dishes and stencil letters or words on them or use foil to create a message. This creative method of expression is suitable for any room, entrance or hallway.

Dishes stenciled with the word LOVE

WALL MESSAGE Photo by: Emi Rigby. Tap Here for Pinterest Pin on foil lettering

Craft a Mosaic:

Break vintage dishes into smaller pieces and use them to create a stunning mosaic tabletop or stepping stones for a garden path. Whether adorning a side table or revamping an old piece of furniture, this smashing DIY project infuses a sense of history and personality into your living space.

Mosaic garden stone made from broken dishes

MOSAICS Photo by: Over The Big Moon. Tap Here for mosaic tutorial

Make Candles:

Transform vintage teacups or small dishes into charming candles. Melt down wax, add your preferred fragrance, and pour it into the vintage containers. Once set, you’ll have unique candles that not only illuminate your space but also serve as decorative pieces.

Tea cup candles

TEA CUP CANDLE Photo by: Martha Stewart. Tap Here for candle tutorial

Build a Cake Stand:

Stack vintage plates and cups to craft your own one-of-a-kind cake stand. This elegant and practical creation not only showcases your culinary delights but also becomes a conversation piece for any gathering.

Cake stand made with dishes and tea cup

CAKE AND SNACK STAND Photo by: Ricci Snyder. Tap Here for other dish ideas on Networx

Make a Mirror:

Turn a vintage serving platter or plate into a distinctive mirror. Attach a mirror to the center of the dish, or create a mirrored mosaic using broken pieces of vintage glassware. The result is a statement piece that reflects both style and history.

Mirror made with a white dish

DISH MIRROR Photo by: Crafty Nest. Tap Here for mirror instructions

Create Garden Art:

Enhance your outdoor space by repurposing vintage dishes into unique garden art. Stake vintage plates and bowls into the soil to create a vibrant mosaic or hang them on fences and walls for a whimsical touch to your garden.

Vintage dish garden art

GARDEN DISH ART Photo by: Fancys Garden on Etsy. Tap Here for instructions on how to create a dish flower

Make a Bird Feeder:

Craft a charming bird feeder using vintage dishes. Glue plates to cups or bowls, providing perches for feathered friends. Hang your creation from a tree branch or porch, adding a touch of vintage elegance to your outdoor space.

Cup and saucer bird feeder

TEA CUP BIRD FEEDER Photo by: Color Me Thrifty. Tap Here for Bird House Instructions

Upcycling vintage dishes allows you to infuse your home and garden with a touch of history and creativity. So, next time you explore the treasures at Dishfunctional, envision the endless possibilities of transforming these vintage gems into functional and decorative pieces that bring you joy and tell a unique story in your home.