Handmade Decor Staples Designers Use Again and Again
- Ali
- Feb 2
- 5 min read
Updated: Feb 12
Our content is reader supported. We may earn a commission if you buy through our links.
Design trends come and go, but certain handmade décor pieces never leave a designer’s toolkit.
These are the staples professionals return to project after project — not because they’re trendy, but because they add texture, soul, and quiet sophistication to any space. When chosen well, handmade décor doesn’t just fill a room — it anchors it.
If you’re building a timeless home, these are the handmade décor staples designers rely on again and again.
Why Designers Rely on Handmade Decor Staples
Handmade pieces offer what mass-produced décor can’t:
Subtle variation and texture
Craftsmanship that feels intentional
The ability to work across multiple styles
Designers use these staples because they:
Layer easily into neutral spaces
Add interest without overpowering
Age beautifully over time
1. Trays That Ground and Organize Spaces
Handmade decorative trays are some of the most versatile décor staples in any home.
Why designers love them:
Instantly organize surfaces
Add material contrast to flat furniture
Create intentional “moments” on tables
Decorative trays are useful in every room in the house and instantly add a functional layer.
Set of 2 Round Rattan Trays - Amazon ($26.99)
2. Handwoven Textiles That Add Warmth and Layering
Textiles are the foundation of a layered, lived-in space — especially when they’re handmade.
Designer favorites include:
Handwoven throw pillows
Artisan rugs (including vintage)
Soft throws with visible texture
Designers often mix new handmade textiles with vintage for depth. Textiles are are the key to creating a cozy, layered living space.
Etsy is the best source of handmade throw pillows. You can even buy coordinating sets like this set from HabitationBoheme. Also, check out our post on How to Style Throw Pillows
Mongolian Cashmere Throw - Quince ($129) - One word. Cashmere.
Handmade Turkish textiles, such as hand or bath towels elevate any kitchen or bathroom.
The Turkish Cotton Bath and Hand Towels. - The Loomia ($21.75+) ship from the U.S.
These Turkish bath towels from Eastern Woven can be customized as well. ($18.75+)
A handwoven Beni Ourain Rug from Morocco is the perfect soft plug rug to layer over a jute rug base. This one is from Berber Moroccan Rugs on Etsy.
Another good source for vintage Moroccan rugs is Revival Rugs.
3. Sculptural Objects That Act as Quiet Statements
Sculptural décor is how designers add interest without color.
Common sculptural staples:
Abstract ceramic forms
Stone or wood objects
Organic, asymmetrical shapes
Using handmade sculptural pieces are a great way to add interest to neutral spaces.
Woven rattan chain - Etsy ($32.39)
Designers often use books to create height to display decorative objects. Books are also used as decor themselves. These handcrafted linen covered books are a find and versatile for shelf styling.
Handcrafted Linen Book - McGee & Co. - ($42-54)
4. Statement Wall Art That Adds Depth Without Overwhelming
Designers use wall art strategically — not to fill every inch, but to anchor a room.
Handmade wall art staples:
Textile wall hangings or tapestries
Woven or fiber art
Carved wood or sculptural panels
Why handmade wall art works:
Adds texture instead of color
Feels collected rather than staged
Works across design styles
Modern Macrame Fiber Art Hanging - Etsy ($299.75)
See more ideas in our post on wall art ideas for eclectic homes.
5. Accent Furniture That Adds Function and Character
Accent furniture is where designers often introduce handcrafted details.
Go-to pieces include:
Handcrafted chairs
Side tables
Benches and ottomans
Why these pieces matter:
Add depth to seating areas
Create visual breaks in layouts
Combine form and function
This fluted ceramic side table from West Elm ($199) works indoor or outdoor.
This Danva genuine leather ottoman from Joss & Main ($399) can serve as extra lounge seating or a side table for a low profile sofa.
A rattan ottoman always adds something special to minimal and modern organic homes.
Rattan Ottoman from Birch Lane ($189)
Accent furniture is often smaller in scale, making it perfect for introducing artisan materials without overpowering a modern space.
6. Unique Vessels for Branches, Flowers, and Greenery
Vessels are one of the easiest ways designers refresh a room — season after season.
Favorite handmade vessel styles:
Large ceramic vases
Stone or clay vessels
Organic, irregular forms
Why designers reuse them:
Work year-round with branches or florals
Function as sculpture when empty
Add height and movement to rooms
Brooklyn Cannelee Floor Vase 20" by Athena Calderone ($179) is the perfect oversized vase for the floor or countertop.
The Marla White Paper Mache Vase from Crate & Barrel ($119) is a great choice for size without weight.
The Ophelia Vase from Crate &Barrel ($119) is another great option. It's handcrafted by Master potters in Portugal.
Ceramic is one of those natural materials that ages beautifully.
Check out some more of our top vase picks in this post How to Decorate with Vases Like a Designer.
How Designers Use These Staples Together
Rather than filling a space with décor, designers:
Repeat materials (wood, ceramic, textile)
Layer textures intentionally
Let negative space highlight craftsmanship
These handmade staples act as building blocks — pieces that can move from room to room as styles evolve.
Final Thoughts: Build Your Home Like a Designer
Designers don’t rely on trends — they rely on timeless handmade staples that help your home tell a story.
By investing in:
Versatile trays
Handwoven textiles
Sculptural accents
Statement wall art
Accent furniture
Unique vessels
You create a home that feels curated, personal, and enduring.
Comments