How to Display Small Collections in Vintage Dishware

If you have a collection of small objects, you know what it is like to be drawn to unique buttons, pebbles, shells, beads, thimbles, crystals, marbles, ornaments, jewelry or even decorative soaps. Any of these small collections could be elegantly featured and given a fresh point of prominence in your home décor. Learn how to display your small collection in vintage dishware and finally give your prized items a pedestal that truly is as lovely as they are.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Collection of small objects (buttons, shells, beads, thimbles, crystals, marbles, thimbles, jewelry or decorative soaps)
• Feather duster or mild dish soap and soft towel
• Vintage dishware, such as compotes, candy dishes, sugar bowls
• Decorative ribbon (optional)

1. Examine your collection by taking the small items out of the jar, box, or other basic storage vessel you are currently keeping them. Clean the items, if needed, using a feather-duster or gently wash the collectibles in mild soap and warm water. Pat the objects dry or allow them to air dry on a towel.

2. Notice the colors, texture, clarity and sparkle of your objects. You want to display them in a way that compliments and secures their natural qualities. For instance, white buttons show up best when displayed on a darker vessel and vintage Christmas balls need a container that will protect their delicate glass from your wandering cat.

3. Look around your home or visit a local flea market or thrift shop to find elegant display holders. Think beyond the basic box or jar and look beyond the objects’ original or intended purpose. For instance, an Ironstone serving platter could be used to show off your most prized collection of bells or a cobalt blue glass sugar bowl could hold a collection of sea glass.

4. Select potential vessels and, if your collection is large enough, consider spreading it out between two or three pretty pieces of vintage dishware. You could begin to display your collection in multiple rooms within your home.

5. White glass compotes (often called milkglass) are fairly easy to find and come in a variety of heights and sizes. These are basically a candy dish with an open-weave around the bowl. This design is an ideal one for displaying many small objects and can be made even more personalized with colored ribbon. Consider weaving seasonal ribbon patterns or colors that highlight your collection or room scheme.

6. Vases come in various shapes, patterns, colors, and sizes. They make gorgeous holders for small collectibles, especially delicate ones. Vases are a more elegant and unexpected step up from the traditional canning jars. You can even add sections of sand to create layers for showcasing things such as shells or pebbles.