Strictly Ornamental

Do visions of sugar-plums dance in your head the day after Halloween? We hear you! When it’s been almost a year since you’ve laid eyes on your collection of sparkly and sentimental vintage ornaments, unearthing them is as comforting as a visit with old friends. Don’t wait for a tree to show them off: Cast them in a starring role with these clever display ideas (and follow our care tips to keep them looking their best for years to come).

KEY ELEMENTS. Highlight a prized display piece, like this vintage key rack, with uniquely shaped ornaments that celebrate the season in an understated way.

A FEAST FOR THE EYES. Shapely serving pieces brimming with shiny jewels makes an easy-does-it holiday centerpiece. Be sure to vary the height and width of your holders for an effective display.

ALL ABOUT THAT BASE. Oil cans are easy to find at flea markets for as little as $5, and they clean up beautifully as ornament display stands. For the curved holder we wrapped baling wire around a drinking glass to create the crook shape, and then around a marker for the small loop.

BRANCH OUT. Secure small branches in a tall vase—spray them in red, white or metallic paint first for a more dramatic effect—and hang lightweight baubles on them. Secured in a flower frog, a vintage card heralding a new year makes the perfect accent.

SWEET NOTION. Turn a shapely old glass vessel into an oversize candy dish when you fill it with your finest. Gather a mix of small, medium and large ornaments so you’re not left with any gaps.

YOU'RE THE TOPS. Since a tree only offers one spot for the star attraction, oil cans come in handy as sturdy bases to display the rest of those striking tree toppers you couldn’t resist picking up when you spotted them.

Shiny Brites and other glass ornaments are the quintessential Christmas collectible. But the vintage beauties are also fragile, so here's how to keep them shining on.

CLEANING. Be gentle! Use a soft cloth, cosmetic brush or feather duster and always a light touch. No water or liquid—ever!

ON THE TREE. Some collectors put padding under the tree skirt for protection in case an ornament falls. Always hang special ornaments out of kids' reach.

PACKING. Remove the hangers to avoid scratches. Wrap ornaments in acid-free tissue paper, and store in their original boxes (if they're sturdy) or gently nest them in shredded acid-free tissue paper in new containers—even a padded china holder.