When I go to an antique or thrift store, I see more silver-plated platters and trays than I can count. Which means, I’m going to encourage you to start them! I’m not saying collect them (although it’s not a bad idea), but having a few in your stash will come in handy. Let me share 7 ways to use platters when decorating your home.
Today is our bi-monthly Lifestyle of Love Hop. If you are unfamiliar with it, I have some friends that love vintage items, thrifting and repurposing things as well as antiques. We choose a theme and all share how we use that item in our homes. This month, it’s platters or your favorite dish. If you’d like to see our last post on pitchers, click here.
If you found your way here via Postcards From The Ridge, welcome! I’m extra happy you’re here. You’ll be able to see the other participants at the end of this post. Let’s get started!
7 Ways To Use Platters When Decorating Your Home
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Technically, the definition of a platter is a large, shallow dish, typically used for serving food, meat, fish, or appetizers. It’s primary use is to serve food in a more elegant or visually appealing way. Hmmm, let me see.
Okay, you have to laugh at that photo. Don’t those shriveled up grapes look more appealing? LOL! Don’t worry, I know what people are talking about. I’m just being sassy (as usual).
I can’t recall if I’ve ever used a silver platter for food. Now that I think about it, are the pieces I’m going to show you actually platters? To me, if the platter has a handle, then it’s a tray. So yes, these are platters. At least for the purpose of this post, we’re going with that.
Creating a vignette on a silver-plated platter is a lovely idea.
Platter idea #1: You can make just about anything look more important if you sit it on a platter. Kind of like a cloche. Things are more noticeable and look significant when confined. So, do the shriveled grapes look more appealing now? Hence the reason I said – just about anything. 😉
This platter is keeping the counter clear in a guest bathroom.
When you add other items that are similar, your pieces stand out even more. Like the silver pot with flowers and the baby cup with a tea light inside. Or the soap dish. If everything was on its own, it wouldn’t look as distinguished. Now it has a theme!
Using a platter to add depth to a vignette works nicely too.
I could have left the lamp and candle alone but adding the third item not only creates more interest, it adds depth. And now it’s not so boring. That’s platter idea #2 – use them to add dimension.
Platter idea #3: Use platters for practicality.
When having my lady-friends over, I tend to have everything ready before they arrive. That includes the table, the food, the drink station, and a dessert strategy. I like things prepared and easily grabable. I would have already cut the pie or cake and had it on the plates but what hostess serves dried out desserts? Not this one.
Platter idea #4: Plant saucers
Speaking of practicality, using silver-plated platters under potted plants is helpful. I’ve had this plant for a while and have failed to find a saucer for it. I’m using a vintage plate under it but why not a platter? It’s prettier and looks more substantial now. Maybe it will take away from the yellow leaves. Maybe.
Improve a centerpiece with a silver-plated platter.
Platter Idea #5: Beefing up a sad situation.
Silver platters can elevate the darndest things. Like these poor chipped, broken, and stained candles. They have certainly seen better days. Those better days were long ago, but they look rehabilitated wrapped with ribbon and placed on a platter. The leftover casserole holder and vintage doily helps too, but today it’s all about the platters. Soon I’ll share how I used my other casserole dish holders. So fun and so cute!
Give your silver platters a stage for attitude.
Platter Idea #6: You can make a wreath out of them.
It took me a little while to gather all of the platters you see in the wreath. But the minute I had enough, I built a silver platter wreath and have loved it ever since. If you’d like to see the tutorial, click here.
These plates and platter took this wall from drab to fab.
Platter idea #7: Use them for wall decor.
I realize this post has been about silver-plated platters so let’s talk about the others. Actually, it’s the others that I think are prettier. They have color, different shapes, and you can mix old with new to create beauty in the shadows.
I’ve found these wall hangers to be excellent for plates or platters. Just make sure you get the right size and go by the instructions. They are removable but I wouldn’t recommend reapplying twice. If you prefer something less permanent, try these instead. I’ve used them all for years and if you go by the instructions, they work very well.
Platters can be used for so many things!
Bonus Idea: – Stack them and use as a riser.
Platters are beautiful even when stacked and sat on a shelf. When I found this adorable lamp made from a vintage creamer, I wanted to use it in the breakfast room. The top of the etagere was the perfect spot except the lamp looked out of place and dinky up there. The cream platters work perfectly to create a magical corner.
Well I hope these 7 ways to use platters when decorating your home has given you happy vibes and inspiration. And now to see what how my friends worked the platter/dish theme into their posts. First up is Rachel from The Ponds Farmhouse. She always has something amazing up her sleeve.
