When I’m headed to a flea market, chances are I’m bringing home a vintage step stool. For this week’s post on thrifting, let’s talk about collecting vintage step stools with lots of patina.
The vintage step stool, milk stool, or even bar stool has become such an iconic piece for all vintage lovers. For enthusiasts and dealers alike, it is so useful. You can check Instagram and chances are, there will be vintage stools in just about any vignette photo sellers are showing.
They are found in abundance and in a variety of styles and colors. From primitive to metal versions with the flip-up seat, they have graced kitchen and storage rooms for decades, if not longer.
A variety of choices in step stools
Nothing could be more useful and full of variety as the vintage stool. They are made in a million different sizes, and a variety of ways. You will find a wide array of stools for anything you may need them for.
The best part is, vintage stools are soooo useful! The primitive details of them is always fun to see because of the differences in how they were constructed. Once you begin to notice them, they are very addicting to collect.
The different uses of vintage step stools
I love to give these little vintage stools new life in my home decor. I use them to stack towels, and create displays. They are great to place a plant on top of the stool, as a foot stool, and many more ways.
They also look super cute just stacked up in varying sizes, waiting for a time that they might be needed. I have two in my primary bathroom. One larger one holds folded towels, while the other smaller awaits holding my drink and reading material while I’m using the tub.
As an Amazon affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. My blog may also contain other affiliate links for your convenience.
What to look for
If you plan to use your vintage step stool as just that, a step stool, make sure it is still sturdy and in good condition. I have several that are in use that way, but many times they are collected as risers for display.
This blue one gets lots of action in our mudroom/snack room. The grandkids use it to reach all their favorite treats, and it gets a lot of use!
If you are looking for them for decorative reasons primarily, look for some with great patina or a splash of bold color. Whatever speaks to you and matches your personal style in decorating, you can find useful sizes for what you need.
How they were made
I love the primitive nature of an old stool. Most are of simple designs and were handmade. Take a peak at the side the stool. It’s easy to see how the legs were cut, the crossbar (for stability) was added, and the top was secured. Any of the patterns are easy to recreate for today’s hobby woodworker.
I even like the ones with the old vinyl upholstery, that can easily be stripped away and made new. They can be recovered with a staple gun and a bit of fabric. This makes them a great candidate to repurpose vintage linens.
I’m so glad you’re here
If you love to decorate your home, and create a unique space full of personal style OR if you are interested in learning how, then you are in the right place!
Let’s talk about home decor, vintage, how-to’s, and all the home inspiration to help you make your space a true reflection of YOU and your personal style!
We can solve design problems together. I’ll be sharing resources, tips, inspiration, and some ways I’ve learned to navigate thru the homemaking life.
Hey, Jill here. I’m excited to share my passion for design, vintage, and all things home. I look forward to hearing your questions and comments.
Ways to display vintage step stools
Although I have many that are used daily, some are set up as display, waiting for their turn to shine. At Christmas time I use them to help show off several collections throughout the house. They are great for doubling the surface of a side table or shelf.
The classic combo is the stack from small to larger that are a feature in and of itself. But they can be super useful where space is tight. I keep vintage step stools in many rooms of our home to be used when needed.
SHOP THE POST
An extra little vintage patina
One of the reasons I love these little vintage stools is because of the patina. Finding an original finish from decades gone by, is so interesting to me. One of my favorite old patinas that I love is on a counter height chair.
Obvi not a step stool, but I am assuming it was a high chair at some point. I love the crackle on this and the colors are just what I like. It’s the only one I have, and I use it for display, like I do my step stools, so I just wanted to show it off.
With anything old and chippy, chances are that it could be lead paint. So be careful and take great care if you have small children or small animals that would chew on the pieces. If your piece is peeling, carefully rub away any loose flakes and seal it with a clear top coat.
if you like collecting vintage
Check out these posts
New step stools with vintage flair
The most popular (most used) in my house is the kitchen step stool I bought about 10 years ago from IKEA. I painted it with our chalk and clay paint, creating crusty areas, so it would look old.
Of course, over the years, it was used in many instances where it gained more wear and tear, splatters of paint, and nicks and scratches as I wallpapered, and DIYed my way around the house.
If you love the look of old vintage step stools, and want to paint one to match your kitchen, it is an easy DIY project. For more inspiration on home projects and decorating, follow me on these platforms.
Pinterest | Amazon | Facebook | Instagram | LTK
Thanks, me too! They are so fun to collect and very useful.
These are too cute! I love the patina!