Bottlemania: How to Collect Antique Bottles
Antique bottles have been a popular collectible for decades. Whether you are an avid collector or a “just for fun” hobbyist, the choices are endless. Glass bottles date back thousands of years storing a large variety of items such as wine, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food items, cosmetics, perfumes and much more.
You might be drawn to a particular color, theme or label that attracts your interest and encourages you to creatively showcase your bottles throughout your home. Here are some examples of ways to style with antique bottles.
A dreamy, aqua color is the common denominator for this grouping of antique bottles.
A variety of topics embossed on the aged bottles include Edelweiss Brewery, Dr Caldwell’s Laxative and Pond’s Extract. Fresh cut Hydrangeas nested in the bottles peek at each other on either side of the window. A few of the aqua jars transition to candleholders with flickering light that welcomes dusk.
An unexpected use of vintage milk and baby bottles creates a delightful Baby Shower celebration. Red themed milk bottles with an eclectic variety of painted labels showcase cut flowers. Nostalgic baby bottles that once held milk for babies now serve a sparkling beverage for guests. Lemon drops in a vintage pint milk bottle add a splash of yellow to the vignette. Lemon cookies are a perfect choice to complete the celebration.
Antique Bottles with original paper labels can be difficult to find. The paper labels are often damaged or missing due to their fragile nature. The large and sample size pharmacy and chemical bottles create visual interest while nursing new propagation cuttings. A tiny watchmaker’s repair cabinet sets the stage for the propagation station.
Two hand carved house shutters showcase a gallon sized Royal Salad Dressing bottle. Filled with fresh flowers from the garden, the lattice embossed bottle has a slight purple color. Manganese dioxide was used to make glass clearer over 100 years ago but exposed to sunlight over time turns a clear bottle light purple. The timeworn wood handle is an unexpected plus as it was often broken long ago.
“CAUTION” Antique Bottles can be highly addictive. Each bottle has a unique story that will pique your interest. They can be found at flea markets, yard sales, antique stores and online marketplaces.
To see more of Dawn Hutta’s work, see Vintage Shed Love and Fun Wall Paneling Ideas to Try. Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest for your daily dose of farmhouse inspiration!
