How to Hang Plates as Wall Decoration

Have you ever had that one room in the house that is hard to decorate? You can't find the right framed art or you already have enough framed art, iron, sconces, or candles. What about the hard to match fabrics or bedroom sets that cost an arm and a leg to accessorize? Plates may be the inexpensive answer to your decorating dilemma. Follow these simple suggestions to add some decor to your walls.

Things You'll Need

• Color scheme
• Wire hangers with stretchable string
• Nail
• Adhesive plate hangers

Instructions

1. Decide on a color scheme or decorating theme. Not only are decorator plates available at most department and specialty interior stores, but they also have a variety of color or motifs.

2. Determine the best method for hanging the plates you have chosen to accent your walls. Plates that measure 10 inches or less are easily hung by wire hangers with a stretchable spring. They wrap around the plate and have rubber tips so it will not damage the plate. These can be purchased at discount department stores or craft stores and they hang from a nail.

3. Purchase an adhesive plate hanger to hang a larger plate or a bowl. Check the weight it is intended to hold and follow the directions of the brand you choose. These are often soaked in water and applied to the back of the plate until completely dry.

4. Create an heirloom look by hanging delicate mirrors or smaller plates. Simply use the adhesive disc and thread a ribbon through the ring to hang from a nail in the wall.

5. Take advantage of the selection home and garden stores offer. Plates do not have to be round; they can be square, rectangular, oval, triangular or diamond shaped. There are also a variety of outdoor plates or lightweight stepping stones that could be used in the same manner.

6. Look for plates that come in a series or companion pieces. These pieces give a more elegant or classic look.

7. Hang several different plates at a time. You can mix and match colors, patterns and sizes for a more dramatic effect. You can also hang plates around other art or place on shelves or even use the conventional plate racks.

8. Have fun with your designs. Plates can go in any room to add art to otherwise bare walls.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are using several different plates, lay out the pattern on the floor to experiment with the best layout.

• Be creative. You do not have to hang plates in a straight vertical or horizontal line.

• Many of the wire hangers come in brass, white or black. Pick the color that blends best with your color or pattern of plate.

• When using an adhesive disc, be aware that it could leave residue once removed. You may reconsider using your great grandmother's heirloom platter that has been handed down.