DIY Vintage Bucket Labels

We’re sharing how to create DIY vintage bucket labels today!

Mother’s Day is one of those holidays that can either be delightfully exciting or bittersweet.

While I have been infinitely blessed to have an amazing Mom, there is no denying the holiday can be a tough one for many.

Sometimes it’s hard to know exactly what to say to help a loved one through a hard time and when I don’t know what to say, I try to show up in small ways to let them know I care.

As with our Spring basket ideas, you can use these DIY vintage bucket label ideas in a variety of different ways so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on things.  

This is meant to be a simple make-and-take gift you can customize any way you like.

Here’s a look at how to create DIY vintage bucket labels…

DIY Vintage Bucket Label Supplies:

• Home Computer
• Printer Paper
• Black Coffee
• Baking/Broiler Sheet
• Scissors
• Decoupage Glue (We used an outdoor finish)
• Glue Application Brush
• Metal Bucket (without embossing or branding)

DIY Vintage Bucket Label Steps:

Gather your supplies and make sure your metal bucket is free from dirt and debris.

Using your home computer print out the label of your choice. We used this free French Flower label from the Graphics Fairy.

Once you have the graphic printed out, use caution and care to cut around the image if needed.

Remember you don’t want it to be too perfect.

I crumpled mine up so it would have some extra lines and “aging” on it.

Adding Patina and Drying the Label…

Set the oven to the lowest temperature (ours was set around 200 degrees F).

While the oven is warming, pour cold black coffee into a deep baking sheet or broiler pan.  

Then carefully ease your graphic into the coffee bath.

Allow the graphic to soak for several minutes or until you have the color you desire.

Keep in mind the longer the paper stays in the coffee bath, the more it will be prone to tearing.

Next, transfer the graphic from the coffee bath onto another baking sheet or broiler pan.

Using caution and care as the oven will be hot, carefully place the pan onto the rack.

Using Caution and Care…

Do not walk away from the oven.

The drying process is fairly quick. So, make sure you are frequently checking on the label as the paper can become flammable.

Once the DIY vintage bucket label has completely dried, again, using caution and care remove it from the oven.

Ours took around 7-10 minutes but every oven performs differently.

Allow the label to cool completely.

Using Decoupage Glue…

Use a brush to apply decoupage glue directly onto your metal bucket.

Then carefully place the DIY vintage bucket label graphic on top of the glue. Smooth out any wrinkles and air pockets if desired.

Add additional coats of decoupage glue to the outside of the DIY vintage bucket label.

Allow the label to dry completely.

A Little Aging Tip…

If you want to add some extra “patina” you can rub a bit of dirt into the nooks and crannies, so the “aging” looks more authentic.

Fill with flowers or greenery and you’re good to go!

While we’ll probably use this DIY vintage bucket indoors, it would be fun to leave one on the porch of family and friends to surprise them.

Especially, those that struggle this time of year with Mother’s Day.

Of course, you don’t have to just make this for Mother’s Day. You can customize DIY vintage bucket labels like these for any recipient or special occasion throughout the year.

Let us know what you’ve been crafting lately in the comments section below!

Other French Country-Inspired Posts to Enjoy:

French Country Mantel Art

Painted French Country Bookends

French Country Bedroom Makeover Reveal

Until next time, I’ll see you on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest.

Many blessings,

CoCo