24 Charger Plate Designs, Including Several DIY-Low Cost Options

Welcome to the 734th Tablescape Thursday! Back on June 1, 2017, I shared my entire charger plate collection in one post. Since then, I’ve added 7 new charger designs to my collection and donated two sets.

 

The two sets I decided to no longer keep are the large corn platter (top right corner) and the watermelon platter at the bottom right corner. The reason I decided to part with those is that over the years I found that I was never using them in tables. Since they are platters and quite large, they took up a lot of space and my tables just aren’t that big. I ended up keeping two of each platter to use as actual platters for summer cookouts and donated the rest. I’ve left them in this post so you can see how they looked in a previous table setting–in case it gives you ideas for how you could use a smaller platter as a charger plate.

 

So, here is my current charger collection. (Warning: This is a long post!) I managed to squeeze all the chargers together on my dining room table for a family photo. Ha! For this week’s Tablescape Thursday, I’m sharing this full collection, along with a picture and a link to a table in which they were previously used. Some have been used so many times, it was really hard to choose just one table to share. Okay, let’s go!

Charger Plate Collection, Updated 10-20-22

 

1. White Swirl Charger: This white charger is a staple in my charger collection since it goes with many dish patterns. I purchased a dozen back in early 2008 from Horchow. On the back, it’s hallmarked: Vintage Garden, Ambiance Collections.

 

Spring Easter Table Setting with Wisteria Centerpiece (Click title to view table.) I’ve used this charger many times over the years whenever I’ve needed a crisp, white charger for a table setting.

Easter Spring Table Setting Tablescape with White Bunny Rabbit and Wisteria Centerpiece 2_wm

 

2. Pierced, Filigree, Lattice Charger: This was the other charger I purchased from Horchow online back in early 2008. Again, I ordered a dozen. Back then, I always purchased twelve place settings whenever I bought new dinnerware. I had done that with my everyday pattern and with my fine china when I married, so when I purchased chargers for the first time, I purchased twelve so I’d have enough for each of the dinnerware sets that I already owned. These days I normally just purchase six or eight, but occasionally I still do purchase a dozen. It just depends on how I think I’ll be using them and the cost. I get more questions about this charger than any other charger I use in table settings for Tablescape Thursday. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have a pattern name or any markings on the back. I remember when they arrived, they were in plain boxes without a brand name or anything on the box. That makes me think that they were probably produced exclusively for Horchow and Neiman Marcus.

 

Valentine’s Day Table with DIY Heart Tree (Click title to view table.)

 

3. Straw-Colored, Woven Charger: I purchased these in Steinmart right after adding a screened porch to my home in 2008. I had purchased some beachy dishware to use on the porch and these were the chargers they had paired with that set in the store. I rarely use them since I don’t have a lot of square plates, plus they are pretty small in size so don’t work that great as chargers.

 

Beach-Nautical Table with Candlelit Centerpiece (Click title to view table.)

 

4. Gold, Glass Charger: I came across these in the clearance aisle in Hobby Lobby. They were drastically reduced to (I think) $2 or $3 a plate. They are heavy glass and work great in fall table settings. I’ve even used them in Halloween and Christmas settings.

 

Halloween Table Setting (Click title to view table.)

 

Santa Claus is Coming to Town (Click title to view table.)

 

5. Corn Platter Charger: This is actually a large platter. I found these on sale half-off in Old Time Pottery many, many years ago. I purchased six of these and six of another style thinking they would make cute chargers for a summer table. Hard to remember, but I think they were marked down to around $6 each.

 

Country Style Tablescape with Corn on the Cob and a Clever Scarecrow (Click title to view table.)

 

6. Watermelon Platter Charger: This was the other large platter that was on sale that day in Old Time Pottery. I love the watermelon pattern!

 

Summer Table with Carved Watermelon Centerpiece (Click title to view table.)

 

7. Brown, Rattan Charger: Found these on sale in Pier 1 and added them to my charger collection to work with fall place settings. I definitely recommend having a set of brown, rattan, or woven chargers to work with patterns that need that darker base or background. They are still available here: Rattan Chargers.

 

Dashing Through the Snow (Click title to view table.)

Christmas Table Setting with Better Homes and Garden Dishware

 

8. Blue, Glass Charger: There’s a story that goes with these but I’ll just share the quick version. I came across three of these blue, glass chargers in Marshalls for $1.99 each. I purchased them hoping to find more in another Marshalls but was never able to find anymore. I reluctantly returned them, then ended up coming across one in a Marshalls several weeks later in another town. I hurried back to the original Marshalls and fortunately, the three I had returned were still there. I really wanted six and mentioned that in a post when I ended up using the four that I had in a tablescape. (See that tablescape HERE.) A lovely reader spied two more in a Marshalls near her home and mailed them to me. So appreciative of the lovely Dearheart who helped me complete this set!

 

Nautical Table Setting (Click title to view table.)

 

9. Kim Parker Emma’s Garden Floral Charger: Came across these in Marshalls one year and it was love at first site. They were only $2-3 each and I bought all that they had, which I think was six. Later I found three more in another store and bought those, as well. I didn’t realize what an amazing deal that was until later when I saw them on sale someplace online for drastically more than what I had paid. They are one of my absolute favorite chargers. The colors just make my heart sing!

 

A Romantic Dinner in the Garden (Click title to view table.)

 

10. Grapevine Charger: I think I purchased these from William-Sonoma. I remember they were on sale, greatly reduced. The price was so good I posted about it on the BNOTP Facebook page so anyone who was interested could get a set. As I recall, they were on sale for just a few dollars each.

 

Halloween in Pumpkin Hollow (Click title to view table.)

 

Woodland Themed Valentine’s Day Table Setting

Venetian Glass Mirror reflecting chandelier

 

11. Green & Red Plaid Charger: Found these on sale online at Williams-Sonoma one Christmas. I love plaid dishware and had purchased dinner plates in the exact same pattern the year before, so I was thrilled to add the chargers to my collection.

 

Christmas Table Setting, Toy’s Delight (Click title to view table.)

 

When Williams-Sonoma does a theme, they go all out, often making table and bed linens in the same pattern. I love red and green together, so I also purchased the bedding to use as my winter bedding. I had the bed skirt custom-made from the heavy-weight tablecloths since they didn’t make a bed skirt in this pattern. The tablecloths were the exact same fabric as the comforter and shams, so it all worked out well. Read more about this project here: Tartan Bedding for Winter.

Updating Bedroom with New Drapes, Tartan Bedding

 

12. DIY Shell Charger: I came across shell chargers on eBay one year and loved them. They were originally from Pottery Barn. The auction sky-rocketed to over $200 for six chargers. Ugh.

 

I decided to make my own using inexpensive plastic chargers that I already had as the base. The majority of the shells were collected during a family trip to Sanibel and Captiva Islands back in 1983. I had kept the shells all those years, never knowing exactly what to do with them. I filled in the tiny gaps with little shells found in Marshalls and purchased online. Tutorial for making these shell chargers can be found here: Shell Chargers.

 

Lobster & Crab Fest: Beach Party Table Setting (Click title to view table.)

 

13. DIY Shell and Sea Glass Charger: I had always wondered how the shell chargers I made would look with a bit of sea glass mixed in. When I spotted this “sea glass” in Marshalls one summer, I decided to make six more shell chargers, this time incorporating in the pretty blue glass.

 

Surf’s Up! Beach Vacation Time! (Click title to view table.)

 

14. Giraffe Charger: After bringing back six giraffe wine glasses from the gift shop during my visit to Giraffe Manor, I came across these giraffe chargers on sale online and knew they would be perfect in an “African Safari” table setting. I think I purchased these in Bed, Bath and Beyond.

 

On Safari: An African Safari-Themed Tablescape (Click title to view table.)

 

15. Green and Gold Braided Glass Charger: These green and gold braided charger plates were a find in Williams Sonoma a few years back. Initially, I purchased them in red and gold but you guys convinced me to go back for the green and gold, too. I’m so glad you did since I’ve never used the red and gold–yet, but I’ve used the green and gold several times.

 

Daffodils, Daisies, and 4-Leaf Clover for St. Patrick’s Day (Click title to view table.)

Saint Patrick's Day Table Setting

 

Christmas Table Setting with Magnolia Centerpiece (Click title to view table.) I couldn’t resist sharing two tables where the green and gold were used because they are so versatile for my holidays/occasions than I initially anticipated.

Magnolia Centerpiece, Christmas or Thanksgiving Table Setting

 

16. Red and Gold Braided Glass Chargers: Here’s the red and gold version I initially purchased before going back for the green.

 

Though I haven’t used them in a table setting yet, you can see how beautifully they pair with Lenox Holiday. These would be beautiful in a Valentine’s Day table setting, as well.

Red Chargers, Perfect with Lenox Holiday

 

17. Pumpkin Charger: These cute hand-painted, pumpkin chargers were a find in Pier 1 many years ago. Love using them in Halloween tables although I wish they were a tad larger.

Pumpkin Charger Plates, Great for Halloween

 

Celebrating October with a Colorful Halloween Table Setting (Click title to view table.)

Halloween Table Setting, Porch Dining

 

18. Pinecone and Berries Charger: This beautiful charger is one of my absolute favorites. They are just so pretty and so beautifully made! They must have been a huge hit because I just noticed they are available again this year! That so rarely happens, so I’m happy to see they are back. You’ll find them available here: Pine and Berry Charger.

Woodland Berry Charger Plate for Christmas Table

 

Snowy Winter Table in Tartan

Winter or Christmas Table in Red, Green Tartan

 

19. Driftwood Chargers: I loved the summery vibe of these driftwood chargers when I spotted them one summer while shopping in a Pier 1 in Ohio. I bought a set that summer for my son and DIL, and loved how they looked in a summer table so much, I purchased a set for myself once I was back home.

Driftwood Charger Plate for Beach Nautical Table Setting

 

Outdoor Dining: Child-Friendly Beachy Table Setting (Click title to view table.)

Pagoda Umbrella for Outdoor Table, Outdoor Dining 2

 

20. Bark-Edged Charger: If you’ve been following BNOTP for a while, you know I use these bark-edged chargers in tables a lot. I’ve been surprised by how much I use them, never dreamed they would work for so many different tables. Target no longer has them but they are still available here: Bark Edged Charger Plate.

Wood bark-edged charger for table setting

Autumn Table Setting with Blue Willow (Click title to view table.)

Fall Table, Blue Willow, Bark Edge Chargers

 

Christmas Table for Cat Lovers (Click title to view table.)

 

21. Square Rattan Charger: I just purchased these square, rattan chargers a couple of weeks ago to go with a fun, beachy dinnerware pattern I’ve had for many years. I probably won’t be using these in a table until next summer–but decided to get them while the getting was good. I doubt they’ll still be around by next summer.  (You’ll find them available here: Rattan Charger Plates.)

Square Rattan Charger

 

Here’s the dinnerware I plan to pair them with for next summer. Love how they look with this beachy pattern!

Square Rattan Charger Plates

 

Update: Ended up using them in this setting for a late summer/early autumn table setting.

Square Rattan Charger Plates, Late Summer Table

 

22. Magnolia Leaf Chargers (Click title to view table.) Sometimes it’s fun to improvise and create your own chargers from whatever is handy in the garden at that moment.

 

23. Queen-of-Hearts Card Chargers (Click title to view table.) Playing cards from the dollar store worked great as whimsical chargers for this Alice in Wonderland table setting. They were 2 packs for $1 and the cards were the only ones I needed from each pack for this “Queen of Hearts” table setting.

 

24. Clay Saucers (Click title to view table) Clay saucers from your local garden center are perfect for a garden party table setting. Just measure your dinner plates first so you’ll know what size saucer to purchase.

 

Hope you enjoyed seeing how I use the charger plates I’ve collected over the past 14 years. I have to really, really love a charger plate to add it to my collection since my current collection fits my needs pretty well. If you’re curious to see my flatware collection, check out this post: Flatware for All Seasons and Holidays. I think I’ve only added one set of flatware since that post was written, but I may need to update it sometime soon.

 

Looking forward to all the beautiful table settings linked for this week’s Tablescape Thursday!

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Comments

  1. I’ve been collecting as long as you have, but I don’t have nearly the supplies that you do, and I think I’m relieved by that. Even though I use charger plates all of the time, I don’t have all that many. I’m going to have to read your flatware post, because I LOVE flatware. I am particularly in love with your flatware that looks like fish. You really have some interesting items. Enjoyed this post.

    • Thanks, Pattie! Not sure if I’ll buy many more charger plates since I have a collection that meets most of my needs. I’m also a lover of pretty flatware. Hope you enjoy that post where I share those.
      XXX

      • I enjoyed it very much, not only for the flatware, but for your mentioning Wayfair as a source. That never would have occurred to me. Sadly, the shark flatware is no longer available anywhere.

  2. Out of all of the chargers you displayed, my favorite is the one you made with sea shells and sea glass. They are whimsical and very pleasing to the eye!

  3. You are very creative in using the chargers in a table setting. I love the corn and watermelon platters and you were wise to keep a couple as serving pieces. They are perfect for summer cookouts.

    • Thanks so much, Sherry! I had to think long and hard about parting with them, but I just wasn’t ever using them. I saved a couple for my daughter-in-law, also…they do a lot of cookouts in the summertime.

  4. You do have a stunning collection of chargers Susan. I love each one and the table settings you have done with them. So gorgeous! I really love the tips about using what you have, like the magnolia leaves, playing cards or the saucers. Great ideas! I am really glad you kept one of the corn and watermelon platters, they are awesome! Hugs, Brenda

  5. Wonderful post appreciating the abundance. I like how you enjoy everything you own in those very organized cabinets.

  6. Sharyn Kimbrough says

    Susan, love your blog and have for years-such practical advice! Please keep on keeping on.

    I do have a question on ‘chargers.’ When I have dined in fine hotel restaurants, the chargers are removed before food is served. When dining at home, leave the chargers on the table or remove them before food is served?? Please and thank you for the proper home etiquette.

    • Thanks, Sharyn! I’ve read a few articles about that and they all pretty much say the same, which is that it’s up to you and that either is fine. I know when I’ve attended special dinners where there was staff serving the various courses, they do normally remove the chargers before the main entree is served. But after reading that it’s fine to leave them in place, that’s what I’ve chosen to do during dinner parties because I love seeing them throughout the meal. I do, of course, remove them before serving dessert.
      So really, whatever you prefer is fine, based on the information I’ve been able to find.

  7. So much fun and inspiration here! Love it. Happy Fall!

  8. I LOVE this post Susan! It’s great to see all your different chargers and what you’ve done with them. You’re right – it must have been hard to choose – they’re all gorgeous! SO much inspiration. THANKS!

  9. This was a nice post, I enjoyed looking back at them. I will be stealing your Queen of Hearts card charger idea. I have collected some Alice things to go with. I have those Santa salad plates, only each one is a different Santa. You have been so inspirational over the years. Every Christmas I think of your friend Marie whose decor is really unparalleled. I revisit those every year!

  10. This post is so entertaining; I had fun viewing all the seasons and holidays just through your tablescapes. I would love to see the red/gold braided chargers for Valentine’s Day. My fave would be the first square woven ones since I have square plates. My second fave would be all the others! So good!

  11. Tina Reynolds says

    Love, love, love all of the wonderful chargers and tables! I enjoyed the long posting and it provided me with a much-needed distraction and escape today. I enjoy all of my china and dishes, napkins and glassware for just that reason: escape. Something pretty always helps me get into a better mood. You put in so much work to make your shell chargers! I love the sea glass version, too. Those were a delicate project for sure. I have two colors (red and gold) of the inexpensive plastic chargers that Bed, Bath and Beyond sold a few years ago. My husband’s complaint is that my china is coupe shaped and slides around on the charger when he cuts meat. Is there a good idea for making the center of a plastic charger rough? sticky? ugh, no, not sticky but cause it to have some grip? Honestly, these were so, so cheap that I think I may just give them away. However, the clever ladies over at The Welcomed Guest blog often spray paint their cheapo chargers to suit their color whimsies! So, that makes the cheap chargers handy!

  12. Thanks for sharing! Just beautiful!!

  13. Susan, what a fun post! I’m ashamed to say it, but I have charger envy. So many pretty ones! It was fun to revisit the tablesettings, too.

  14. Great post Susan! I loved seeing all your chargers with all the tables you have put together over the years. You are so creative!

  15. Susan, I love looking at all your chargers, and seeing how you use them! Your tables are gorgeous! I just started a blog (I only have 4 posts on it so far – 2 tablescapes and 2 Outdoor Skeleton Scenes (the beach, and the Astros game). I was excited to join Tablescape Thursday and be a part of all this as I have so enjoyed all the tables pictured here in the last few years. As I joined, I am not sure I did a backlink, and if not – my apologies. I could not find it on my form. Any advice you can give on how to add the backlink to my submissions, would be much appreciated. Thanks, Patty

  16. Oh, Susan, this recent post is my favorite one of all your posts I’ve read! And, as you know, I’ve been a loyal follower for many years! It is a stunning compilation of your beautiful collection of chargers and the extraordinary tables that you have created with them. A true treat for fellow tablescapers who marvel at your talents and appreciate your kindness in showing us what is possible when imagination, love of dinnerware and creative inspiration all come together to make dinner guests feel like their royalty in your home. Thank you so much for sharing your talents and ideas with us!

  17. Becky Goss says

    Here’s a charger question 101……do you leave the chargers in place during the actual dinner or do you remove them before the main course?
    Thank you

  18. Susan, right from the very beginning when I started to follow you many years ago, I was and still am intrigued with your beautiful tablescapes. They are always so lovely and your tables were an inspiration for me to start tablescaping myself. Thank you. Keep on using your wonderful talent and creativity.

  19. Thank you for hosting! Have a great weekend!

  20. Fabulous collection (and true confession, good girl, lol). I also gave away platters when we moved from the condo into this house, mostly because I passed the torch for hosting so many large family gatherings. I have a lot of chargers too, but not so ready to come clean and share just how many, lol. Your use of them all is just as fabulous as the collection, so many gorgeous tablescapes.

  21. I have the same blue glass chargers. Mine were a steal at $2 each for 9 of them at Salvation Army thrift store. The original sticker said Bormioli (Italian). Then I found another single one at a thrift shop. Then found another pair that someone posted to give away. I love them!

  22. OH NO!!!!! I loved that watermelon platter/charger. It was the first of your posts that I saw and got me started. I hope they go to a good home. But I DO understand. Sooner or later you have to purge. Or you can’t keep growing.

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