Do you love the memories of seeing doilies around your grandmother’s house? Maybe you think doilies are something of the past? Maybe you’d like to know how to incorporate them in your everyday decorating? Well, you’re in luck! Today is the Lifestyle of Love hop and I’m going to share how I use vintage doilies at the farmhouse.
If you landed here via Lora Bloomquist’s lovely post, welcome! Did your jaw drop from her collections?! She’s one of my favorite bloggers. Actually, I love everyone in this group and when they post, they have my undivided attention. Seriously.
How I Use Vintage Doilies At The Farmhouse
I remember seeing doilies at my grandmother’s house and recall that she used handkerchiefs the same way. I never thought to ask why, but remember thinking she must not want her lamps to scratch the wood. Was that the trend back in the 60’s and 70’s – to put doilies or handkerchiefs under lamps and centerpieces?
Doilies to add character
Let’s get started. Imagine what the little basket would look like without the added doily. Sure, it’s still adorable, but the doily softens the texture and takes it up a notch. All I did was lay it inside. There’s no need to tack it down.
Same with this one. The doily turns a modern hanging basket into something with more character and a farmhouse look.
Doily Coasters
I found several little round doilies at an antique store. The cashier mentioned they were probably going to be used for a blanket. Hmm. Not in my non-sewing world. I think they are the cutest coasters I’ve ever seen and you can’t go wrong with white at the farmhouse.
If you want to make an understated statement, bunch together several doilies and plop them into an antique ironstone jello mold. Similar to a floral arrangement.
Handmade Doily Tray
Did you know you could take a doily and turn it into a tray or bowl with Mod Podge Stiffy or Elmer’s School Glue-All and water? It’s a very simple process and you’ll love the outcome. Here’s the video I used when I made mine.
This basket with the handles was purchased but it has gone through the same glue process. I’ve used it to deliver goodies to neighbors, to hold plants, in a decor vignette. They are super handy!
Last but not least, I use doilies to embellish gifts. It’s like giving two gifts in one.
Remember when I mentioned my grandmother decorating with handkerchiefs? Well, last week some friends and I were at the farmhouse so I hung one up to add a little more pizzazz to the mantel.
I’ve seen many variations of these banners but just now got around to making one. It was easy and it added more white to the simple spring decor this year. Plus, everytime I look at it, I think of Grandma Dora.
Well that’s how I use vintage doilies at the farmhouse. How do you use doilies? Hop on over to DIY Beautify and see her cottagecore doily and lace ideas! I’m sure you’ll love them!
Gosh, I’m in love with those doily bowls and trays! Going on my must-make list! Loving all your inspiration!
Author
Thank you Cindy, you’ll love them. They come in super handy!
I loved the theme this month!! So many amazing uses for doilies and old lace! Great ideas, Cindy.
Author
I’m glad to hear it, Rachel! Thanks bunches.
I’m swooning over the rolled lace in the ironstone; sheer perfection! I love the idea of the doily tray; I need to give that glue thing a try, since I have a huge stash of doilies, too;) Thanks for the great inspiration!
Author
I plan to do it again with a white doily because the tray is one of my favorite pieces. It’s actually very useful. Thanks bunches Lora.
I drape them over books and store them in a jar. I use under pitchers and on shelves. I have collected quite a few but haven’t made a bowl out of them, love that idea. I do crochet and have made casters to use under cups and potted plants. Have a wonderfu day enjoyed all these ideas, thanks.
Author
Oh Marlene, I bet your doily collection looks amazing! I wish I could crochet. I need to take the time to learn. And I think placing them in a jar would be handy and adorable! Thanks for the great idea.
Such adorable ways to display your doilies.
Author
Thanks Rachel. I learned SO MUCH from your post! Makes me love doilies even more. 😉
Dear Cindy, thank you for hosting these wonderful blog hops. I LOVE your ideas for making trays and baskets from doilies, and I think the doily draped over the basket is so cute and simple!
Author
Aww, thank you so much! You made my day!
I still love doilies and, as a dealer of vintage and antique linens, I can vouch for the fact that they are getting harder and harder to find in my region. We have bought and sold so many of these cuties. Hankies are also hard to find, so if you see them grab them. Really cute ideas here, Cindy. Those soaked to make baskets are especially cute!
Author
Thank you Rita. I agree, so hard to find! I’m telling you it’s those millennials snatching everything up. But because of their age, we might see a resurgence when they move on to the newest trend. 😉 Keep your fingers crossed!