With Easter just a week away, here’s an easy DIY decorating trick I use for entertaining that’s perfect for spring gatherings. This monochromatic approach creates a bold, coordinated statement that’s foolproof—whether you’re an experienced crafter or a complete beginner, you can do this.
The concept is straightforward: collect items from around your home in a single color family (all yellows, all blues, etc.) and arrange them into a striking tablescape or an entryway welcome tray for guests. If you don’t own many items in the same shade, no problem—one can of paint will solve that. Painting mismatched pieces the same color quickly turns them into a cohesive collection.
I partnered with Valspar to bring this idea to life, using a bright spring hue called Oopsy Daisy. This cheerful yellow is Valspar’s Color of the Day and works beautifully for an eye-catching spring display.
Materials
- One quart of Valspar Optimus paint (I used Oopsy Daisy in a flat finish)*
- Paint brush
- Old vases, jars, containers, recycled soup cans, and small decorative objects
- A decorative tray that can be painted
*I recommend Valspar Optimus for its OptiColor Pigment Technology, which delivers vivid color and a smooth finish on a variety of surfaces. I bought a gallon but found a quart was actually enough—most pieces needed only one coat since the paint includes primer.
Instructions
1. Gather and arrange. Collect old or inexpensive vases, jars, containers, and small decorative items, plus a tray. Place them on the tray in a rough arrangement. This helps you decide which pieces work best together before you start painting. Keep the tallest items in the back and vary heights for visual interest. Leave space for snacks and beverages if you plan to include them.
2. Photograph the layout. Take a quick photo of the setup so you can recreate the arrangement exactly after painting.
3. Paint the pieces. Apply 1–2 coats of paint depending on the surface. Most of my items required only one coat, but some stubborn surfaces needed a second. Allow paint to dry fully between coats as directed on the can.
4. Reassemble. Once dry, use the photo from step 2 to quickly place each item back in the tray as you planned.
5. Add fresh accents and refreshments. Fill vases and containers with fresh flowers or wheatgrass for a lively spring touch. Add bite-size treats like macarons or cookies and bottles of water or other beverages so guests can help themselves.
Tip: You can do this project without a tray, but a tray makes it easy to move the entire display from an entryway to a table or another location. Don’t let its absence stop you—arrange the pieces directly on a table or mantle if you prefer.
Photography Amelia Tatnall and Rachel Brewer
Styling Brittni Mehlhoff
What I love about this idea is how customizable it is. A different paint color or a fresh selection of objects instantly changes the mood. Try soft pastels for a subtle spring vibe, vivid jewel tones for drama, or tonal neutrals for a modern look.
Which color would you choose? What objects would you include to make the display your own?
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This post is in partnership with Valspar. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper & Stitch running.