Today’s post is part of the Vintage Series of posts, which focuses on the history and modern-day decorating uses for vintage items.  Today’s item – the French Bottle Drying Rack!

 

Bottle Drying Rack

via Lovinate Finds on Etsy
Available via Lovintage Finds on Etsy

 

History

Called a “hérisson bouteilles” in France, which means “bottle hedgehogs” given their spikey appearance, these racks were originally used to dry beer and wine bottles upside down on the spikes.  Often they are found as tall, floor standing versions, but you can sometimes find smaller ones, which are more easily incorporated as decor items in homes.

There are many reproductions available that have a “cleaner” look to them, whereas a true vintage one is likely to have patina on it and often parts are a little bent or some spikes are missing.  Of course, in my opinion, the wear just adds to their charm!

 

Decorating Uses

Today’s uses are quite varied, ranging from functional to purely decorative!

You can use them to hold/display mugs, which is a great idea for parties or even everyday use.  They work no matter your style, as you can see from the images below.  They work in the kitchen as well as on a sideboard in the dining room.

Bottle Draying Rack Mug Holder 2
Image: My Sweet Savannah
Bottle Draying Rack Mug Holder
Image: Pinterest
Bottle Rack - Mug Holder
Image: Pinterest

 

 

A very creative idea is to use a rack to decoratively dry herbs and other flowers.

Bottle Rack - Herbs
Image: French Larkspur

 

Here, one has been used to hold small jars of flowers for a decorative look.

Bottle Rack - Flowers
Image: Rusty Hinge

 

Even garden supplies look decorative when stored on a Bottle Drying Rack!

Bottle Rack - Gardening
Image: HWIT BLOGG

 

This Bottle Drying Rack has been turned into an amazing chandelier!

Bottle Rack Chandelier
Image: Robert Sevilla Naudon

 

You could also use a Bottle Drying Rack to hold spools of ribbon, craft supplies, or even ornaments during the holidays.

 

This is on my MUST HAVE list for the upcoming antique faire.  Fingers crossed that I find one!

 

Coming up in the Vintage Series:

  • Bannetons
  • Tin Ceiling Tiles
  • Lavabos

 

For more information on decorating with vintage pieces, visit my other posts:

 

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6 Comments

    1. I love the old bottle drying racks! I’ve used them in my designs in the past, I have one in my personal collection I’m willing to let go of, I’ve had it for 20 years…the nice old ones are harder and harder to come by…

      1. Michelle Herrington says:

        Did you ever sell this bottle rack?

  1. Love reading the background on these beloved drying racks! What a great idea, Kim! Hope you’re having a wonderful week!
    Becky

    1. Tidbits&Twine says:

      Thank you so much, Becky!

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