I love a kitchen project that solves a real countertop problem and still looks warm and intentional, and this olive oil caddy does exactly that. We’re turning a small ceramic bread loaf pan into a tidy holder for glass oil bottles by lining it with burlap, then nestling the bottles inside so everything stays together and looks styled instead of scattered.
This is a good beginner DIY because there’s no cutting wood, no power tools, and no complicated measuring beyond fitting the liner neatly into the pan. The finished piece is practical for anyone who cooks often, especially if you like keeping olive oil within arm’s reach of the stove the way I do when I’m making a quick pasta sauce or roasting vegetables on a weeknight.
Materials
1 small white ceramic bread loaf pan, about 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches
Instructions
1. Wash and dry the ceramic loaf pan and the glass oil bottles so the finished caddy starts clean and dust-free.
2. Measure the inside bottom and side walls of the loaf pan, then add enough extra burlap to wrap up and over the rim slightly for a soft, finished look.
3. Cut the burlap to size, then trim small squares from each corner so the fabric can fold into the pan without bulky bunching.
4. Test-fit the burlap inside the loaf pan, pressing it into the corners and adjusting the folds until the liner sits smoothly and evenly all around.
5. Add short strips of double-sided tape to the outside faces of the inner side walls near the top edge, then press the burlap in place to hold the liner without making the pan look stiff.
6. If any corner wants to pop up, add a tiny dot of hot glue under the fold and press it down carefully so the liner stays tucked and tidy.
7. Fold the top edge of the burlap neatly over the rim in the front and back, keeping the fold even so the caddy looks intentional rather than makeshift.
8. Slide the two amber glass oil bottles into the lined loaf pan, placing them side by side with a little breathing room so they’re secure but easy to lift out.
9. Adjust the bottle spacing and gently fluff any visible burlap at the sides so the liner frames the bottles instead of collapsing behind them.
10. Tie the ribbon around one end of the loaf pan in a simple knot or bow if you want a softer decorative finish, then set the caddy near the stove or on a prep counter.
Variations & Tips
Add a third bottle: If your loaf pan is a bit longer, use 3 slimmer 8- to 12-ounce glass bottles instead of 2 larger ones for olive oil, vinegar, and a finishing oil.
Use washable lining: Burlap gives wonderful texture, but if you want easier cleanup, place a cut piece of neutral cotton or linen over the burlap so oil drips can be washed out more easily.
Keep it heat-safe: I like this beside the stove, but not directly against a burner. Set it in a warm, dry spot where the bottles are handy but not exposed to direct flame or heavy splatter.
Make it giftable: Tuck in a small sprig of rosemary and pair the caddy with filled bottles for a housewarming or hostess gift. It has that lovely “I actually use this” quality that I always appreciate in kitchen presents.
Choose the right bottle height: Bottles should rise above the rim of the loaf pan by at least 4 to 5 inches so they’re easy to grasp and the caddy doesn’t feel cramped.
Try a softer finish: A frayed burlap edge can look charming in a rustic kitchen, while a clean folded edge feels a little more polished. I usually choose based on the rest of the room and whether the countertop style leans farmhouse or classic.