Ways To Decorate With Dough Bowls

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I love decorating with dough bowls because they are so versatile. The wood gives them an organic feel and a desired texture.

I haven’t splurged on an old dough bowl, as the cost is prohibitive. Instead, I’ve purchased reproductions for my home. I’d love to stumble across a truly old one at a thrift shop. I bought a couple of dough bowls from various Etsy shops.

Decorating My Laundry Room:

I used this dough bowl in my laundry room to showcase vintage finds I’ve collected here and there over the years.

Before I added decor to the simple shelf in my laundry room, it was just a plain and utilitarian area. Now, I enjoy walking in there and seeing all the vintage decor I have on display.

Organization:

Dough bowls are an excellent way to organize kitchen items on countertops. I’ve used one to hold a small lamp and other things for morning coffee.

Not only does it help with organization by reducing a cluttered look, but it also looks decorative.

You can use a dough bowl to showcase a centerpiece, as I did above with my green pitcher and faux red roses.

I also use a dough bowl to store reference books in my living room.

What Is A Dough Bowl?

Depending on where you live, a ” handmade wooden bowl” may be called a “dough tray,” “bread bowl,” or “dough trough.” It may also be referred to as a trencher.

Wooden bowls have always been the preferred choice for bread-making because the heat generated by the yeast is retained in the wood, giving the dough an even rise. The bowl’s high sides protect the dough from drafts.

A good dough bowl was often handed down to the oldest daughter as an heirloom and a reminder of the loving hands that prepared their daily bread.

Most bowls were made of poplar, magnolia, or Tupelo gum—all very soft/light woods easily carved into bowls. They are also light and easy to lift.

Many years ago, before the ubiquitous sliced loaves of bread you could buy at the grocery store, women stood at a table or counter and prepared bread for their families. I’ve done the same for my girls. There’s nothing like homemade bread slathered with butter.

How To Use Them To Decorate Your Home:

The simple design of dough bowls means they can be used in many styles, from rustic to modern.

As shown in the above photo, I filled this dough bowl with various succulents and then added three candles.

Decorating A Dough Bowl With A Prized Collection:

This dough bowl holds part of my beloved collection of milk glass vases. If desired, you could add stems of greenery or a flower to each vase.

I used pillar candles in the blue dough bowl and surrounded them with green pears. This is one of my favorite shades of green, and I’ve painted furniture in this color.

The second photo uses a dough bowl as a background for the wood houses, adding another layer of texture to the decor.

In this photo, I used the dough bowl in my bathroom to hold plants and candles on the back of the toilet.

In the second photo, my green cupboard displays a dough bowl with reading material.

Dough bowls are excellent for seasonal and holiday displays. In this one, I’ve gathered small pumpkins for the autumn season.

The next one is a vignette of various decor pieces on a sideboard. It holds a clock, blue and white ceramic balls, and a plant.

Dough Bowl Centerpieces:

I use dough bowls, baskets, and trays made of various materials to showcase magazines that either highlight the season or are just ones I’d like to keep for further reference.

In the next photo, a dough bowl holds some of my collection of white pitchers. A pair of brown shutters underneath indicate this is a table’s centerpiece.

This dough bowl displays some of my vintage bottle collection, which I’ve added to over the years.

This dough bowl holds amber bottles and jars on my mantel. The second one is in my kitchen, holding white pitchers filled with kitchen utensils.

When decorating for Valentine’s Day, I used the scalloped dough bowl to hold stuffed patchwork hearts.

However you choose to use dough bowls, to keep your wooden dough bowl looking its best, you should condition it regularly. Applying a thin layer of food-safe mineral oil or beeswax enhances its beauty and longevity.

Best Way To Clean Your Dough Bowl:

Before you clean your dough bowl, make sure you have the following items:

• Soft sponge or cloth
• Mild dish soap (preferably biodegradable)
• Warm water
• Baking soda (for tough stains)
• Food-safe mineral oil or beeswax for conditioning

First, hand wash with soap and water. Follow the grain of the wood as you clean it. Excessive water can warp or crack the wood, so thoroughly dry the wooden bowl before storing it.

Use baking soda to tackle stains.

Proper storage is essential for dough bowls. They should always be stored in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Don’t store them where there are temperature fluctuations, such as near ovens or heating vents.

It’s best not to keep your dough bowl in direct sunlight. Prolonged sun exposure can fade the wood. Also, never place your dough bowl in the dishwasher. The high heat and moisture can cause significant damage. Don’t soak your dough bowl in water.

These simple steps can ensure that your dough bowl remains a cherished kitchen item for years to come.

Dough Bowl Candles:

I’ve also seen smaller reproduction dough bowls used as vessels for homemade candles at various Etsy shops. Amazon also sells these candles.

The Red Barn company is an Amazon storefront that sells these dough bowl candles.

I hope my photos of how I decorate with dough bowls have inspired you.