There’s something magical about giving old things a new life—especially when it comes to plants and flowers. Instead of reaching for a standard planter or vase, why not get creative with secondhand finds? Whether it’s a quirky flea market score or a dusty attic gem, thrifted pieces can make your plant styling feel one-of-a-kind.
Here are 10 unexpected and totally Thrift Rich ways to display your blooms and greenery:
1. Tiffany-Style Lamp Shade as a Planter
That stained-glass lamp base missing its shade? Instant character-filled planter. Add a trailing plant like ivy or pothos and let the leaves spill over the edge for a dreamy, whimsical look.
credit: Southern Crush at Home
2. Vintage Oil Lamp Turned Vase
Remove the top of an old oil lamp and use the glass base to hold fresh or dried flowers. The curves and patina make it feel like a curated antique, not just a vessel.
3. Tea Tins and Coffee Cans
Thrifted tins—especially vintage ones—are perfect for small plants or mini bouquets. The colorful labels and retro graphics add so much charm to shelves or windowsills.
4. Wicker Baskets
Line a thrifted basket with plastic or a waterproof tray, and it becomes the perfect rustic home for a mix of potted plants. Use it as a centerpiece or to style an entryway bench.
5. Crystal or Cut Glass Candy Dishes
These sparkly beauties make elegant vessels for succulents or short floral arrangements. Try grouping a few on a tray for a glam-meets-garden vibe.
6. Ironstone or Transferware Pitchers
A staple of any good thrifting trip, ceramic pitchers make classic vases. Fill one with branches in spring, sunflowers in summer, or dried florals year-round.
7. Vintage Trophies
Thrifted metal trophies (especially silver or brass) are statement-makers when repurposed as vases. They’re perfect for tall flowers or dried arrangements with height and drama.
8. Colanders or Bundt Pans
For a more playful, kitchen-inspired twist, use a vintage colander or bundt pan as a planter. Just be sure to add a liner or tray to catch any drips!
9. Chamber Pots, Crocks, and Enamelware
Once utilitarian, now delightfully quirky—chamber pots and old crocks are excellent for larger houseplants. They bring that old-world cottagecore energy in the best way.
10. Champagne Buckets
Vintage silver or crystal ice and champagne buckets add so much European charm and look lovely with a fresh arrangement of florals or even a plant like this lavender topiary.
HERE’S A BONUS IDEA!
Pro Tip: Always check for drainage or add a plastic liner if needed—especially if your thrifted vessel wasn’t originally meant for plants.
The next time you’re thrifting, look at items through a green-thumbed lens. With a little imagination, nearly anything can become a planter or vase. It’s sustainable, it’s beautiful, and it tells a story—just like the rest of your home.
Other Unique Planter Ideas
Don’t miss out on these easy DIY planter upcycles from the archives!
How to Turn a Floor Lamp into a Planter
The Look for Less: Anthropologie Planters on a Budget
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xoxo, L
