Thursday, April 16, 2009

Summertime's coming! Patio Caddy



One of my favourite things to do in the summer is have dinner outdoors on the patio. There's something very luxurious about sitting in the warmth of an evening sun around a table with my husband, and sometimes our children and friends. I think I savour it so much because those days don't come around very often here. It's usually too cold. So when they do come, I want to be prepared!


A few months ago I found this wire and wicker basket at the thrift store. I brought it home, thinking it would make a good caddy for taking things to the patio from the kitchen. The above picture is the "before" state.

I painted it white and then antiqued it a little with brown shoe polish. I just used a cloth and rubbed it on. It didn't take much.



I lined the bottom with a cloth napkin - I might get my husband to cut a piece of thin wood to give it more stability, but this works fine for now.

Then I altered three tin cans with pieces of old linen, buttons and lace. I stamped labels onto twill tape - knives, forks, spoons. The basket is ready for the patio! It also holds napkins and a vase of flowers. I think this will sit on my kitchen counter in a few months, reminding me that eating outdoors is food for the soul as well as for the body.


I also made a little tag for the basket using a quotation glued to a sample chip for formica countertop. A bit of seam binding for ribbon and an old millinery flower top off the handle. This was fun and quick. Bring on the sunshine!

Although this isn't exactly a table setting, I've included it in the Tablescape Thursday lineup over at Between Naps on the Porch. There are so many creative tablescapes so be sure to visit the link.

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10 comments:

  1. Your caddy turned out great. I know it will save you many steps back and forth as you enjoy your patio.

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  2. This is an incredible idea! Your caddy turned out so pretty. You did a great job painting it and antiquing it! I love the colors you chose, they are so uplifting!

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  3. Really cute and functional. Thanks for giving me another idea...keeping my eyes open for possibilities that will suit my style.

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  4. You have some great ideas. That metal basket make over is fabulous.
    Come visit, it's a blue blog party put on by Etsy Cottage style.
    Have a great day!
    The weather is finally getting warmer here too.
    later...
    Darlene

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  5. Very nice. Now you are ready for summer in style!

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  6. Lorrie, what a hoot -- I have the same basket! You inspire me to use it for patio toting!

    No sitting out there just yet in our neighbourhood, but soon and very soon!

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  7. Cute idea....
    I have always used trays to take food and table ware out. I shall have to go in search of a basket. :-)
    Thank you for sharing...
    Have a beautiful day

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  8. Lorrie,
    Your caddy is just darling - you always come up with such great ideas.
    I wanted to thank you for coming by to visit my blog - now that I have a comment - I feel like i have finally arrived. Thanks again

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  9. I think I have that very basket hidden in the back of a closet!! I love what you did with it! Great idea! I just wanted to stop by and say THANK YOU for coming to visit my blog during my "Celebrating Marie Antoinette" event. I appreciated your comments and it's so nice to meet others who are also interested in our dear Antoinette! Have a beautiful day ~ xo Joy

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  10. Hi Lorrie,
    You are so creative! It makes a simple outdoor table suddenly seem elegant. I am very impressed!
    Thanks for sharing your great ideas with us.
    Blessings,
    Kymber

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Thank you for your comment. I read and value each one, cherishing the connections we can make although far apart. Usually, I visit your blog in return, although if you ask a question I try to contact you directly.

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