Don't Skip Odd Shaped Thrift Store Baskets: The Clever Way To Style Them

Being a regular at your local thrift store can sometimes mean that you come across an item which is simply baffling. What was it originally designed for? What might it be used for now? One great example is wicker baskets. These can come in various shapes and sizes, some of which are so unusual or strange-looking that it is virtually impossible to work out what they were made to do.

But, just because you can't tell what an odd basket was made for doesn't mean you have to leave it behind. If you stumble across a thrift store basket in a novel shape, it could actually be perfect for repurposing into an eye-catching vase. Now, you may be thinking, how can a wicker basket full of holes work as a vase? All you need to do is locate a simple, watertight container — such as a tall glass or bowl, depending on the shape of the basket — that fits well in the middle. This will allow you to fill the inside of the basket with water and flowers while still capitalizing on the fascinating structure of the original basket. If the oddly-shaped basket isn't in the right color for your current design scheme, but you think it has great potential to make a stunning centerpiece as a flower holder, you could always consider painting it. This simply requires a bit of time and some spray paint. Then, you will be ready to style your thrifted basket around your garden or home. Let's check out some tips on how to arrange an oddly-shaped basket to add fresh or faux flowers to your decor.

Repurposing an oddly-shaped basket as a vase

Repurposing a wicker basket is a great way to create a floral arrangement that looks high end. However, it is important to consider the elements of your basket — such as its size, shape, and colors — when thinking about how to style flowers inside it. For example, if the basket comes in a lot of fun colors, you may want to balance that out by using flowers in a monochromatic color scheme. This will ensure that the basket and flowers aren't fighting for attention. Or, if the basket you want to use is unusually long, wide, or shallow, you could consider placing multiple glass containers inside it. This will allow you to spread the flowers out and avoid clumping them together in one section.

You should also think about where the floral display is going to be situated. If you pick a basket that is impressively tall, for example, you will likely need to place it somewhere that has enough head room to allow for the added height of the flowers. Or, if you plan to place the basket in a location where it will frequently need to be moved — such as on a dining table or bedside table — then it could be a good idea to look for a basket that has a handle to make it easier to move around without disturbing the flowers inside. And remember not to skip florals in the one room that needs them most. The bathroom is a great place for an unusual basket full of flowers because it can add luxury to a room that may otherwise feel flat.

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