When you see mismatched cups and plates at Goodwill, do you ever think some of them would be great if only they came in a set?  Or, maybe they are too boring and could use a little more decoration?  Today’s the day to put those thoughts aside because this week I’ll show you how to spice up mismatched plates for fun table settings that can coordinate, but don’t have to be matching sets.  Also see some good ideas for decorating your bare house or apartment walls.

http://apopofpretty.com/ decorative-plates-diy-wall-art/

There are several products designed for writing on ceramics, but I have only found one which is food safe (click here to see more). They are $17.95 for a pack of four, which might sound a little pricey to some.

But, if you aren’t worried about food safety (if you want to use your plates for wall art or if you are decorating the parts of your dishes that won’t come into contact with food) you can use porcelain paints, or common Sharpie markers. If using the paints follow their instructions for heating. If you are using Sharpies, simply heat your finished pieces in the oven at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.  When they are cool, your designs will be permanent.  Pretty great, right?

Take a look at some of the designs other people have tried (also remember that you don’t have to start with a white dish, you might even have more fun working off of something that already has designs on it).

Click here for more ideas.

You might also consider drawing on glass jars or making vases for a nice table centerpiece.  

Get a few friends together and spend a few minutes picking out your favorite dishes from the housewares section of Goodwill.  Then take them home and try the Sharpie or paint pen methods and see what you can come up with.  I bet you’ll be surprised by the variety of styles you’ll create.