Chris Zonta is a coverup artist. Her work begins with what she calls “scrounging,” looking high and low for plates and cups with interesting patterns and for tiles in outlet and retail stores.

Heather Peterson makes it look easy. Effortless. Laid-back and layered, with cherished knickknacks, retro mosaics, quilted tablecloths à la Grandma and a rosette print that dates to the dawn of ...