A design trend I’ve seen a lot recently is the use of glass cloches or bell jars to display small collections. A cloche was originally used to cover and protect plants. (Not to be confused with a cloche hat, popular during the Roaring Twenties!) Savvy interior designers are using them indoors to showcase all sorts of items.
Cloches are very expensive and if you want more than one, the price can add up quickly. Instead, I look for “anniversary clocks” and cheese plates with domes at Goodwill. They can be found for as little as $2.99.
I remove all the clock parts and spray paint the base. Then fill them up with whatever it is you want to display. A collection of vintage pewter napkin rings looks really elegant.
Fill it with package or hair ribbons, balls of yarn, scarves or other fabrics for a colorful display.
My sister displays her silver charm bracelets under a cloche. She rarely wears them, but can look at them every day. Why hide something that brings back fond memories in a drawer?
Keep small items from getting lost. Like items have a bigger design impact when grouped together.
A bell jar keeps valuables from getting dusty and dirty like this antique watch.
Highlight something special. I bought this old bowl at les Marches aux Puces in Paris. I would hate for it to break.
You can display so many things. How about baby booties or a child’s art work? A special card or photograph. Send me a photo of your cloche display. Be sure to check back in December to see what I have in mind for Christmas!