Using Eclectic Vintage Finds and Styling Open Shelving

I love the open shelving in my kitchen that sits on either side of our fridge. In the fall I showed you the side that is more visible (HERE), but I never shared the other side that is less visible and a bit less styled.

This side of the open shelving is where the coffee gets made and the microwave sits so it actually gets used every day. I have had fun collecting different vintage, eclectic, colorful items that I actually use.

It is definitely a mish-mash of items that all make me smile. The glass coffee jar in the corner holds instant coffee that is used every now and then to make frothy coffee. The vintage jelly bowl and spoon holds sugar for coffee. I use the wood bowls for crackers and nuts when we have company.

The bright yellow, rusty metal bowl that has been sprayed well with clear spray, holds some hot cocoa packets. The old clove spice tin and tobacco tin are decorative. The platter I use quite often. I had to come up with a way to keep it propped up on the shelf. Using small, clear command adhesive light hooks attached to the shelf was the perfect solution. 

(affiliate link) I used hooks like THESE HERE.

I wasn't sure about buying this framed, apple crate label at the thrift store. But, I like the yellow frame and the blue background and in looking at the back, I saw that it was an authentically vintage label, not a reproduction, so for $2.99 I decided, yes! The stack of plates I bought quite a few years ago at a home something, something party. We use them all of the time. The turquoise bowl is very old so I don't want to use it for food. But, it holds the coffee filters.

The square metal tin I bought at Target close to 20 years ago. We kept mail in it for a long time. Now it holds baking things that only get used a few times a year--cookie cutters, sprinkles, cupcake liners.

On the top shelf are couple copper colanders and a wood salad bowl and cake stand that get used occasionally. Under the counter there is an open space. I think the builders intended this to be a desk type are with a spot for a stool. We keep the dog food, metal container there. 

I love my eclectic, vintage finds and even better, I am happy that I use them and can display them. The hunting for treasures part is my favorite, but using what I have is fun too! LOVE and USE what you collect.