3 Simple Steps to Upcycle an Old Auction Find: Bundt Pan to Fall Décor

Guest blogging Upcycling idea and work courtesy of Petal My Pretties

If you love finding hidden gems at flea markets and auctions, then you know the thrill of taking something old and giving it new life. Upcycling is a fantastic way to transform vintage finds into beautiful home décor that’s both unique and sustainable.

In this blog, I’ll show you how I turned an old bundt pan, which I purchased at Glick’s in the Flea Market (seasonally May-September) this summer, into a charming fall centerpiece in just three simple steps.

1:  Prep Your Auction or Flea Market Find

Before starting any upcycling project, it's best to clean your item. For this bundt pan, I gave it a good wash with warm water and dish soap to remove dirt and dust. Auctions and flea markets are the perfect places to find items with lots of character, but they do often need a little elbow grease before you can work your magic.

2:  Add Flair with a DIY Patina Finish

Once the bundt pan was cleaned and dried, I added some color to give it a rustic, patina look that fits right into the fall season. Using a mix of orange, brown, teal, and metallic gold paint, I lightly brushed the surface to create a weathered, vintage effect. This is where you can really let your creativity shine.

I also saved a pumpkin stem from last season and gave it a fresh coat of the same colors to match the bundt pan. To add structure, I cut a circle from a recycled cardboard box and inserted it into the center of the mold, giving the stem a sturdy base to rest on. A delicate doily was layered on top for some added texture and charm.

3:  The Finishing Touches

While you could have stopped with the step above, I always love adding extra decorative touches to make it truly unique. I arranged some floral accents, baby’s breath, greenery, and miniature apples around the stem to complete the look. These small details make the piece pop and bring it to life a truly unique fall centerpiece.

Inside Tips

1. When picking great finds, look for pieces with a solid structure—whether it’s metal, wood, or glass. Cleaning up an old item is the first step to revealing its potential.
2. When bidding at an auction, think about how a simple coat of paint or small embellishments can really take a piece of junk and turn it into something with more spunk!
3. Auctions are perfect for sourcing unique, vintage items that can be repurposed with just a little bit of imagination. Keep an eye out for doilies, florals, and other embellishments that can be easily added to your DIY projects.

Why Auctions Are Perfect for Upcycling Enthusiasts

One of the best things about shopping at an auction is the thrill of finding one-of-a-kind items with history and character. You never know what you’ll come across—from vintage kitchenware, like this bundt pan, to antique furniture, and quirky collectibles.

Upcycling gives you the opportunity to take these finds and turn them into something truly special. Whether you’re crafting seasonal décor, creating unique gifts, or refreshing your home’s style, auctions are a treasure trove of inspiration.