Turn Walls into Art Galleries: How to Display Decorative Plates with Style
Forget bland walls! Decorative plates are a treasure trove of color, pattern, and history, waiting to add personality and charm to your home. But how do you showcase these beauties without them looking like a cluttered garage sale? Spoiler alert: it's easier than you think! Here's your guide to transforming decorative plates into stunning wall art, complete with tips on arrangement, hanging methods, and creative inspiration.
Choosing Your Plates:
- Theme & Style: Do you have a collection of mismatched vintage plates, a set of hand-painted ones, or a specific theme like floral prints? Embrace the unique character of your collection or choose a unifying element like color or material.
- Size & Weight: Consider the size and weight of your plates when planning the layout. Larger, heavier plates might need stronger hanging methods.
Planning the Layout:
- Grid It Up: For a classic, sophisticated look, arrange plates in a grid pattern. Play with symmetrical or asymmetrical layouts depending on the plate shapes and sizes.
- Go Freeform: Unleash your inner artist with a freeform arrangement. Create a cascading effect, group plates by color or theme, or follow an organic flow.
- Mix & Match: Combine decorative plates with other wall art like framed photos, mirrors, or clocks for a dynamic and eclectic display.
Hanging Methods:
- Plate Hangers: These are the most common option, available in various styles to suit different plate sizes and weights. Choose picture hangers with foam padding for delicate plates.
- Adhesive Disc Hangers: These are perfect for lightweight plates and offer a damage-free hanging solution. Just be sure to follow the weight capacity guidelines.
- Wire & Hooks: For a DIY touch, bend sturdy wire into hooks and attach them to the back of the plates using strong glue.
- Command Strips: These are another damage-free option for lightweight plates, but make sure the strips are rated for the plate's weight.
Creative Display Ideas:
- Shadow Boxes: Frame individual plates in shadow boxes for a museum-like presentation.
- Shelves: Arrange plates on floating shelves or ledges for a layered effect.
- Plate Rack: Showcase a collection on a decorative plate rack, either freestanding or mounted on the wall.
- Gallery Wall: Create a mixed media gallery wall by incorporating plates alongside other artwork and objects.
- Tabletop Display: For a more casual touch, lean decorative plates against a wall on a shelf or sideboard.
Bonus Tip: Use decorative wall plates as the centerpiece of your display! These unique pieces often come with built-in hanging mechanisms and add instant visual interest.
Remember:
- Safety First: Ensure all plates are securely hung to avoid accidents.
- Level Up: Use a level tool to ensure your plates are hanging straight.
- Play with Lighting: Spotlight your display with accent lighting for added drama.
- Switch it Up: Don't be afraid to experiment with different arrangements and hanging methods over time.
So, unleash your creativity and transform your decorative plates into stunning wall art! With a little planning and these handy tips, you'll have a personalized and eye-catching display that reflects your unique style and tells a story through these beautiful objects.
Head over to explore our one-of-a-kind decorative wall plates:
Hand-painted decorative wall plates
Keywords: decorative plates, wall art, hanging plates, plate hangers, display ideas, gallery wall, creative decor, home decor, interior design, handpainted wall plates