The Vintage Glass Holder That Makes For Elegant Table Decor

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If you've been looking for ways to spruce up your dining table for parties or just to make it look a little more elegant, then you may have been considering large, impactful centerpieces such as vases, baskets, or candles. However, you don't necessarily need something big in order to create a striking effect. For example, using small bud vases peppered around the surface can help create a romantic, charming vibe without overwhelming the space. But before you run to the store to purchase some brand new — and sometimes pricey — bud vases, you may just want to have a look at your local thrift store first.

This is because many vintage toothpick holders actually look very similar to bud vases while adding a historic charm that often doesn't come with modern pieces. And you don't just have to settle with one style. Vintage and antique toothpick holders come in a huge range of different styles, from classic clear cut glass dating from the Victorian period and onward, to green versions from the 1930s and even bright blue ones popular in the 1960s. While each piece is likely to look different, as toothpick holders were made to stand on their own — not as part of a set – many of them have similar motifs such as florals or geometric shapes, so it's easy to style multiple together as a fun tablescape idea for any occasion. Finding and styling these items is also more straightforward than you may imagine.

Thrift stores are a great place to check for toothpick holders, as they often carry lots of different glassware people no longer want. You can also check estate sales, yard sales, or flea markets. If you don't find some you like right away, don't worry! Vintage shoppers report coming across toothpick holders relatively regularly, so you can always hold out for other ones to pop up. If you still aren't having any luck, try checking online sites such as Etsy or eBay. Toothpick holders can sometimes be lumped in with similar items such as shot glasses or candle holders, so it is worth scrolling through some broader collections to see if they have any toothpick holders mixed in. Once you have collected a few, you can then consider how to style them to elevate your tablescape on a budget.

Since these holders are small but often have beautiful detailing, it's important not to overwhelm them. By placing them around the table and adding just one or two flower stems, you can turn them into bud vases with a romantic, elegant feel. Alternatively, you could try filling these little toothpick holders with potpourri. This mix of dried, scented petals is great for adding a pop of color to your table and a pleasing aroma to the room. If you have tried styling these charming vintage holders on your dining table and still find that they are dwarfed by the size of the table, don't panic. You can also opt to style them on other tables to give any room a vintage feel, such as on a side table, coffee table, or kitchen table where their small size may fit.