How to Decorate With Bamboo Sticks

Bamboo complements modernistic décors well; it adds a lively, earthy feel, while still remaining somewhat minimalistic for a clean-cut vibe. Bamboo sticks are a low-cost complement to any contemporary space, available at many major retail outlets and, in some cases, even at dollar stores. Knowing how to incorporate bamboo sticks into a home's décor takes some forethought and stylistic insight. With the proper stylistic knowledge, bamboo decoration is relatively easy with the right know-how, adding to any space featuring modernistic clean lines.

Things You'll Need

• Pre-cut, pre-dried bamboo sticks
• Paint and paint brush
• Colorful vase

Instructions

1. Buy pre-dried bamboo sticks. While it may be tempting to buy a bamboo plant and cut your own stalks for decorating purposes, doing so is often more expensive in the long run and can lead to splitting or warped bamboo pieces due to improper drying techniques. Store-bought, pre-cut, pre-dried pieces work the best.

2. Use bamboo sparsely. Bamboo complements a minimalistic décor; if you have dozens of vases stuffed with bamboo across your house, it can feel a bit pushy. Bamboo is great for a contemporary, clean-cut look because it offers a vibrant, organic aesthetic without overly ornate, bushy leaves or blossoms. Don't contradict this clean-cut vibe by adding tons of bamboo to any given room.

3. Paint bamboo sticks to match your room's color scheme. The interesting shape of bamboo sticks creates a nice silhouette, but sometimes the pale, natural color of bamboo can be somewhat drab. Painting bamboo sticks can add a pop of color to any space. In most cases, staining is not a very feasible option since store-bought bamboo sticks are often sealed with a thin layer of thin polyurethane. If you're not sure what color to go with, a dramatic black is always a great bet; it contrasts sharply with any wall color and gives the bamboo a very contemporary look.

4. Put bamboo into a vase for easy display. Make sure to utilize vases appropriately for stark contrasts. Don't put black bamboo pieces in a black vase---use vases as an opportunity to further accent your bamboo décor. Pick vase colors that will further accentuate your bamboo color choice.

5. Place spare bamboo pieces in other, more eccentric locations. Vase bamboo displays look nice, but they can also be a bit cliché if they are not augmented with more interesting bamboo placement. Consider putting smaller bamboo pieces on shelves, coffee tables or other surfaces as a small, quirky garnish to any décor.