Vintage or antique silverware is relatively easy to find on Etsy or eBay and shoppers can often find reasonably priced items. Vintage silverware is also versatile in craft or decorating projects.
Set a Modern Vintage Table
For decorators and designers interested in the eclectic options offered by modern vintage design, antique silverware is one way to achieve a funky, casual look while also repurposing and recycling old utensils.
Don't be afraid to mix and match silverware from different sets; the look will turn out to be more cohesive if there is a good balance of different silverware styles and finishes.
Create an Eco-Chic Windchime
Use a collection of antique silverware to add a little music to a porch, patio, or garden. Use a sturdy drill bit and clamp to drill small holes in the handle end of antique silverware. Attach with wire to a clothes hanger or other form of metal frame and hang from a porch eave.
Use Vintage Silverware as Unique Window Art
Create an original art piece in a kitchen or living room using vintage silverware:
- Choose five or six pieces and drill holes in the handles or at the top ends of spoons and knives.
- Loop varying lengths of fishing line or ribbon through the drilled holes.
- Attach to a windowsill with flat tacks or craft putty.
Make Funky Kitchen Hooks
Use a set of antique silverware to create extra storage space on kitchen walls.
- Choose silverware pieces based on the number of hooks needed. Drill holes in the handles.
- Use a pair of pliers to shape the non-drilled end of the utensils into a hooked end.
- Nail the silverware hooks to the wall. Try arranging them in a zigzag or random pattern on the wall to create visual interest.
- Use hooks for dish towels, pots and pans, or aprons. For items that won't fit over the bent end of a fork or spoon, use a metal S-hook as a simple connecting device.
DIY Christmas Decorations
The metallic glitter of vintage silverware is perfect for a silver Christmas tree, or a cooking-themed Christmas tree.
- Drill holes in the handles of several pieces of antique silverware.
- Loop lengths of ribbon or fishing line (approximately 6") through the holes. To avoid permanently changing the utensils, try simply tying ribbon around the "neck" of forks and spoons, just under the tines/bowl.
- Hang from Christmas tree branches to create a cost-saving, unique holiday decoration.
A set of vintage silverware can serve many functions for arts and crafts projects. For information on how to safely drill holes in pieces of antique silverware, see this CraftyGal article.
