Houston – We love a good DIY project on Houston Life! Repurposing old dishware into elegant tiered stands is an eco-friendly and creative way to preserve memories while adding flair to your home. If you have a collection of old plates gathering dust on a shelf, you can turn them into something useful, perfect for parties, displays, or a beautiful addition to your decor.
Mariseli Cruzado, founder of Tiers of Joy, showed Derrick Shore and Tessa Barrera how to turn vintage plates into these stunning tiered stands. Cruzado explained that her inspiration came when a friend of hers was planning her daughter’s wedding. The friend asked if she knew of any affordable tiered stands, with her love for plates and DIY projects, she had an idea to make one herself.
Cruzado and her husband juggle full-time jobs—while also being parents to two young children. Yet, in the evenings, they dedicate time to her passion project, working from 6 p.m. to midnight, sourcing plates and learning about different patterns and techniques.
She emphasized the importance of being intentional with her time. Cruz shared that having a strong support network has been instrumental in helping her succeed—especially the moms of Fulshear.
Another love for the hobby includes how some of the plates she uses have rich histories, with one piece originating from a Houston department store, that operated in the early 1900s. This history adds sentimental value to the tiered stands she creates, making them even more special Many of the plates come from thrift stores, which is a great way to find quality china at an affordable price. She shared how she loves finding unique vintage plates that still hold value, especially pieces that are part of a certain era or signed by a particular maker. Cruz’s work has become more than just about upcycling—it’s about connecting to the past and honoring history while creating something new. She emphasized that these tiered stands are perfect for elevating special occasions, adding a touch of class to any gathering.
To learn more or buy a piece of Tiers of Joy for yourself, visit here.