Flea Market Decor: Four Things to Make from China Plates

Clever DIY Ideas | HGDI ADMIN

Hunting down pretty plates and pieces of china at a flea market, attic or grandma’s attic can be a lot of fun. You never know what you might find.

Vintage wedding plates can be particularly pretty and colorful, but modern designs lend impact. Once you do discover those great plates and take them home, what do you do with them? Here are some ideas to try. 

Gallery Wall

The classic wall of plates has a new modern twist. Forget about symmetry, matching or old fashioned displays. Instead, gather plates that are a mix of sizes, and avoid placing them in a grid pattern. You can lay the plates out on the floor to find a display you like, or just start hanging for a more organic feel.

Using epoxy, attach D-ring picture frame hangers onto the back of the plates. While the glue dries, hang the plates from nails hammered into the wall. 

Wind Chime

Create a lovely wind chime or two when you hang a pretty plate from wire and beads. Using clear, sturdy fishing line attached to your main plate, dangle broken pieces of china along the length of the line in three or four strips. The pieces will jangle together in the wind and create a pretty tune. 

Bird Bath

Have a hummingbird haven when you craft a shallow birdbath from a pretty saucer or plate with a lip. Using a dremel or diamond drill, form three equidistant holes in the plate, saucer or even a bowl. Use twine or thin chain to hang the bird bath. Group several of these for major impact. 

Cake Stand

Don’t put the drill away yet. Choose three plates of descending sizes. Drill center wholes to allow for fittings. Then insert a metal dowel and secure. Consider adding a metal fitting at the top or a twist of wire for a handle. 

 

Image Source: FreeImages.com, HomeandGardenDesignIdeas: Windchime, Birdbath

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