Scratched and rusted metal frying pans usually end up in the trash. However, heavy-duty cast iron and stainless steel cookware can easily take on a second life long after their cooking days are over.
On July 28, 2026, YouTuber Evrim Taşer Yılmaz demonstrated a brilliant way to rescue these worn-out kitchen staples. She transformed an old frying pan into a striking pedestal vase using a straightforward decoupage technique.
A crafter applies metallic bronze paint to the rim of a white, upcycled frying pan.
Gathering the Upcycle Supplies
This project requires basic supplies and zero advanced crafting skills. You need a retired frying pan, decoupage glue, and patterned paper napkins. Intricate floral designs, like the Menace2conformity Flower Decoupage Paper Napkins found on Etsy, work exceptionally well.
Grab white and metallic bronze acrylic paint, super glue, and an assortment of sponge brushes. You will also need a heavy-duty base to elevate the pan. A sturdy miniature cake stand or a metal pillar candle holder, such as the Hosley Aluminum model, provides excellent support.
Deconstructing and Painting
Start by removing the frying pan’s handle. Most standard handles simply unscrew or twist off. Cover the remaining hole with a piece of masking tape to create a smooth, continuous exterior surface.
Coat the entire pan in white acrylic paint using a sponge brush. Once the paint fully dries, carefully peel your decorative paper napkins apart to isolate the single patterned layer.
Brush decoupage glue over the pan’s exterior. Press the thin napkin layer flat against the wet surface, smoothing out wrinkles, and instantly seal it with a top coat of glue.
A wide, shallow vase made from an elevated frying pan holds a dense arrangement of white flowers.
Mounting and Arranging the Flowers
To unify the piece, paint the pedestal white to match the pan. Dab metallic bronze paint around the rim of the pan and the edges of the pedestal for a cohesive, weathered finish.
Apply super glue to the top of the pedestal and carefully center the bottom of the frying pan over it. Press down firmly and allow the glue to cure completely.
Because this upcycled vase is wide and shallow, standard flower stems will not stand upright on their own. Use wire cutters to aggressively snip the stems of artificial blooms, such as Blooming Paradise Hydrangea Flowers.
For the best results, secure a block of floral foam inside the pan. Press the shortened stems directly into the foam to build a dense, professional-looking centerpiece.
