Use Old Wood Bowls To DIY Chic Countertop Storage

Wooden bowls are ideal for upcycling because they offer sturdy construction and earthy wood tones that work with many aesthetics. One woman even turned IKEA bowls and armrest trays into a chic coffee table. We’re keeping the idea smaller this time, courtesy of OurUpcycledLife on YouTube. Using a small and large wooden bowl, create a pedestal-style display that gives you charming, dedicated countertop storage, aligning with Martha Stewart’s countertop organizing tips for a clutter-free kitchen.

The main components you need are two wood bowls, like salad or mixing bowls. Check your stockpile, or head to the thrift store. The size and shape of the top bowl depends on your preference and how much you want to store in it, but a smaller bottom bowl creates an attractive base. If the larger bowl has a wooden rim on its base, make sure the bottom of the smaller bowl fits inside that rim for a clean look. While the original uses two wooden bowls, you could choose to work in a metal or glass bowl with the wood for varied style and texture.

To assemble your display, you’ll need a hot glue gun or E6000 glue. Then, choose embellishments to dress up the storage bowl. The original creator uses differently colored wooden beads to create detailing where the bowls meet (which also hides their bases and the seam). You can also add beads along the top and bottom rims. Or, change things up completely with gemstones, by adding handles, or by painting the bowls.

To create the basic structure of this chic countertop storage solution, you’ll glue the base of the smaller bowl to the bottom of the larger bowl. Test arrangements and orientations to see what looks the best and which way lets the bowls sit together well. You can also add beads, pads, or legs on the bottom if you want to elevate it a bit. Once you’re happy with the arrangement, glue the bowls together, being careful to align them perfectly to create a level, attractive storage container.

When the glue has dried, decorate the piece to help it coordinate with your room. If the bowls match, you might leave them in the original wood tone. If they’re mismatched, painting one or both of the bowls helps disguise that fact. Another option for changing the look is decoupaging pressed flowers or decorative napkins onto the wood bowls to create a patterned design. This option also helps cover small blemishes in the wood, particularly if they’re thrifted or well used.

Adding accents over the area where the two bowls meet can also create a more cohesive look. Wooden beads, jute, or similar embellishments hide the seams and make the ensemble even prettier. You can add more texture by gluing beads, stones, or other decorations all over the bowls. And if you want a multi-tiered option, take things a step further by transforming wooden bowls into countertop storage using candlesticks.