That empty vase does not have to sit around waiting for flowers. Flip it upside down and it turns into an instant pedestal, giving a plant, candle, or dessert stand some height on a shelf or table without buying a single new thing. Pick a vase with a flat, sturdy bottom so it will not wobble, rinse and dry it completely, then set it upside down wherever you want extra height, a shelf, table, or counter, and place a small plant, candle, or dessert stand right on the flat base.
Turn It Upside Down (Trust Me)
Hello Neighbor! A friend gave me a beautiful glass vase for my birthday (I still can't believe I turned 64 on September 1st), then confessed she has no idea what flowers I actually like.
It sat empty on my table for a couple of weeks until I flipped it upside down one afternoon and set a small potted fern right on top.
Suddenly that empty vase had a job again. Below is how I put mine to work.
Be Well,
Anisa
Turn an Empty Vase Into a Pedestal
More Ways to Use It
Keep a clean mason jar or an old drinking glass in a junk drawer to corral bobby pins, rubber bands, and paper clips, so everything stays upright and easy to see. Flip a second vase to use as a mini side table for a candle on the porch or patio.
Ask the Genius: Which Vases Work
Look for a vase with a flat, stable base when flipped. A wobbly one is not worth the risk with anything breakable sitting on top.
Got a handy tip of your own?
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →