Vintage teacups don’t need to stay tucked away waiting for tea time. They can add charm to everyday life in multiple ways. Whether you have inherited a set or scored a few treasures at an antique shop, there are so many creative ways to repurpose vintage teacups.
Why Repurpose Vintage Teacups?
Vintage teacups often end up tucked away in cupboards, waiting for the rare occasion when tea is served in “the good china.” But, giving them a second life outside of tea time has plenty of benefits.
If your teacups are still in great shape but not often used for tea, give them a new role in your everyday routine. Repurposing vintage teacups is a great way to:
- Display sentimental pieces you don’t want to stash away.
- Give it new life especially if it may no longer be functional for tea (ie. cracks or crazing)
- Add charm to your home with delicate, unexpected details.
- Create conversation starters when guests visit.
How to Repurpose Vintage Teacups
Let’s explore some fun, easy and functional ways to use your vintage teacups outside of sipping your favourite tea.
1. Jewellery Holder
Keep your rings, earrings and other treasures together in a vintage teacup on your bedroom dresser or nightstand. For extra cushion to protect your jewelry and teacup, add a soft padding inside the teacup first.
2. Mini Planters
Flowers, succulents or herbs can thrive in a teacup with a bit of potting soil. Place in a spot that gets enough sunshine. For drainage, add a layer of pebbles before the soil to help prevent overwatering since teacups do not have holes on the bottom (unless you want to add one, the saucer is great to catch water, too!)
3. Charcuterie Cups
Vintage teacups are the perfect size for a personal charcuterie treat. Plus, they are way prettier than paper cups and 100% reusable. Layer cured meats, cheeses, olives, grapes and crackers for an elegant twist on snack time. Perfect for parties, picnics or a cozy night in. Learn more on how to make charcuterie teacups here.
4. Bird Feeder
Tie some twine or wire around the handle and base of a sturdy teacup and saucer, fill it with birdseed and hang it from a tree branch or garden hook. Support your feathered friends and add charm to your outdoor space. A win-win! Check out this DIY Bird Feeder.
5. Pin Cushion
Turn a teacup into a functional and decorative pin cushion. Simply fill with a tight ball of fabric or felt, secure it, and voilà! A pretty addition to your sewing kit. Check out this DIY Teacup Pin Cushion.
6. Desk Organizer
Tidy your desk space and bring some tea time charm to your workday by organizing your office supplies in teacups. Paperclips, rubber bands, page markers, pens and anything else that is small enough to fit.
7. Mini Potpourri Dish
Add potpourri to a teacup and set out for a lovely smelling addition to your home. You can also make your own potpourri with dried rose petals, citrus peels, herbs and a few drops of essential oil.
8. Loose Change Holder
Loose change can be a tedious thing to keep track of and organize. Try adding a teacup in your entry way or on your dresser that you can drop coins into instead of scattering them all over the house or leaving them in your pockets.
9. Teacup Terrarium
Build a miniature terrarium in a teacup using moss, tiny plants, and decorative stones or figurines. This is great for gifts or unique shelf decor.
10. Bathroom Vanity Display
Use a vintage teacup to hold cotton balls, Q-tips, hair ties or clips on your bathroom vanity. It adds a romantic, organized touch to your daily routine and looks much nicer than plastic containers!
11. Teacup Candle or Candle Holder
Create your own soy wax candles using vintage teacups as containers or simply place a tealight inside for cozy ambiance. These make lovely gifts and look magical glowing in your home. Check out this DIY Teacup Candles.
Where to Find Vintage Teacups
If you’re inspired but need to start your collection, here are a few great spots to look:
- Thrift shops or antique shops
- Online marketplaces like Etsy or eBay
- Estate sales or flea markets
- You can also learn more about where and how to shop for vintage teacups on my blog post here.
Do you have a favourite way to use your teacups beyond tea? Share it in the comments. I’d love to hear how you style yours!