She Upcycles Old Silverware Into The Prettiest Vintage-Style Bud Vases

Have you ever browsed a secondhand store and wondered who buys all the tarnished old silverware that seems to be around? Crafters, that's who! And while you may occasionally find a rare thrift store find worth keeping, worn pieces offer a unique opportunity to take advantage of– turning something old into something new.

In this clever DIY, thriftyandchicdecor on Instagram upcycles old knives into vintage-style bud vases that are beyond adorable. The supply list for this project is short. All you need are some thrifted silverware pieces, a Dremel with a metal disk cutter and sander, super glue, small magnets, ribbon, and flowers. While you need to know how to use a Dremel, this is generally a simple and inexpensive project.

Pieces of silverware with hollow handles are required for this project. The creator recommends knocking on them or tapping them on something to determine if they sound hollow. You can also bang them together to see if they sound solid or hollow. Hollow pieces will have a distinct sound. She uses knives, but you may find other pieces with hollow handles as well. Don't limit yourself to matching patterns either. The DIYer goes into more detail on her YouTube channel, ThriftyandChic, and shows different patterns, from plain to ornate, hanging together beautifully. So grab your favorite designs and make an assortment of magnetic bud vase upcycles.

The process of making these tiny bud vases is simple — just cut the top off the handle and sand off the rough edge. The creator cuts about 3 centimeters (almost 2 inches) below the top of the handle. Then, she glues two small magnets to the back of each piece. You can add ribbon or jute to decorate if desired, and then add dry or live flowers. The handle is completely sealed, unless there are cracks, so adding water is totally fine.

Now, consider some additional ideas for this project. For example, plain handles can be dressed up with decoupage. Press small dried flowers or leaves onto handles and cover with Mod Podge to create a botanical theme. If the silverware looks too modern, dab on some dark antiquing wax to give it an aged look. Just be sure to rough up the surface of the handle so the wax sticks. Or if you prefer the modern look, dip part of the handles into liquid enamel paint and rock the color block aesthetic.

Additional uses for your bud vases include creating a propagation station for small plant cuttings. Some roots just do better in an opaque container, as opposed to a clear one, and this project fits the bill nicely. Or tuck in some small air plants for a completely different look. Take advantage of the magnet and hang one next to your magnetic notepad as a pen holder, or use it as a handy tool holder for a small herb scissors right in your kitchen.