Looking to give your outdoor spaces a touch of creativity this summer? Incorporate some vintage finds to create a stunning flea market patio. Flea market style marries wonderfully with outdoor gathering places thanks to the casual and laid-back appeal of worn and weathered finishes.

In Gardenista author Michelle Slatalla sings the praises of decorating your outdoor spaces with a mix of old things. Gardens are also a great place to get creative–vintage finds are inexpensive and you won’t worry about weatherproofing or sun damage because chances are, the elements will only add to the aged patina! How to get started? Consider these five elements when creating your flea market patio.

1. A Sturdy Table

The focal point of any gathering area is the table, and an outdoor patio is no exception. Your table will help determine the style and feel of the space, so get this piece first. If you’re budgeting for your flea market patio, spend the most money here. Before you shop, determine how many people will comfortably fit in the space; then search the flea market for a table that will fit the bill.

2. The Right Seats

Seating comes next. Once you have your table, decide whether you want the seats to fit the same style or create variety. Also, consider space. If your patio is cramped, you don’t want bulky chairs—stools might be best. You might even be able to get them for free—these wood stools were cut from an old ceiling beam.

3. Lights

Besides the practicality of lighting, lights will help set the mood of your flea market patio. If you want to go all vintage, find a few old lanterns—you could even convert kerosene lanterns to hold candles. If you can’t hang the lanterns, stand them on the ground along the edge of your space. If you do have a roof or cover, you could also look for strings of lights, which would provide more light and a modern look.

Read More: 10 Vintage Garden Décor Ideas

4. Recovered Pillows

Let’s face it—most outdoor seating isn’t very comfortable. It has to withstand the elements, so it’s usually bare plastic, wood or metal. Add pillows and cushions to your seats to make them more comfortable. Get creative with a variety of fabrics from the flea market. Everything from old aprons and curtains and burlap sacks tablecloths can be sewed into a simple pillow cover. Just remember to store the pillows inside, or they’ll be ruined quickly.

5. Creative Pots

Anything can be the perfect vase to fill with cuts from your garden or bouquets from the farmer’s market. Pot your plants in creative containers like vintage metal tins or zinc buckets. You can also turn almost anything into hanging baskets– think colanders, rattan handbags or old storage baskets.

Gardenista is filled with easy and approach ideas full of creativity and style. We couldn’t’ recommend it more.

Gardenista: The Definitive Guide to Stylish Outdoor Spaces by Michelle Slatalla, published by Artisan Publishing, © 2016; artisanbooks.com.

Hunting for more garden décor ideas? How about expert tips from landscape-designer-to-the-stars, Teryl Ciarlo.

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