This one was my friend Kristi’s idea. While window shopping one day last spring, we saw a glass cake stand in a jewelry store window. She said, “You could make one of those.” I spent the next couple weeks scouring thrift stores for plates, candlesticks, vases—anything I could find to make a cake stand. As you can see, I couldn’t stop with just one. But I did stop at just one cupcake—I swear.

Repurposed cake stands

Supplies & tools

  • plate
  • vase, pedestal bowl, candlestick, etc. (look for a wide base and a flat top)
  • epoxy (I used Elmer’s epoxy cement)
  • craft sticks or Q-tips with the cotton removed from the ends
  • scrap cardboard or paper plate
  • paper towel or rag
  • nail polish remover

1. Clean and dry both dishes well. Find the center of the plate. Mark the spot if you need to. Mix the epoxy according to the package directions, then apply a thin coat to the top of your base using a craft stick. Don’t touch the epoxy with your bare hands.

2. Turn the base upside down, and place in the center of the bottom of the plate. Work quickly but carefully because the epoxy dries fast. While the glue is still tacky, remove any excess with a paper towel and nail polish remover.

3. This is where Harry Potter comes in handy. Place a heavy book on top to hold the base down. Let dry overnight. These cake stands are not dishwasher safe, so gently wash them by hand.

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