How to Display Items on a Shelf

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By Kerry Fletcher ASID
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Display Items on a Shelf

Would you like to display decorative items on a shelf or in a cabinet? If so, this article will provide tips and tricks for getting the best arrangement.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

If you already have items on your display shelf, remove all of them before starting to arrange. It is best to start with an empty space. This would be a great time to make sure the shelf is really clean and all your accessories are dusted.
Step 2

Be aware of the back of your display area. If it is a light color, you will want to display darker items. If it is darker, you will want to display lighter items. If it is light and everything you want to display is light, consider painting the back of the display area so your light display items will be more visible. The same goes if your back wall is a certain color and everything you want to display is that same color.
Step 3

Add items to your display that are your most treasured or the ones you like the most. Fill in with items of lesser importance. You do not have to display everything that you receive as a gift.
Step 4

Make sure to fill the height of the display space. If your decorative items are not tall enough, consider setting them on hardback books or a decorative box.
Step 5

Make sure to leave some empty space on your display shelf. You will need to leave a bit of empty space else your shelf will look like an accessory store.
Step 6

Don't overcrowd your display. The more you have in your display the less important each piece seems.
Step 7

When displaying items on a shelf, a few larger items usually looks better than several smaller items.
Step 8

Try to bring the colors of your room into your display. Pick 3 colors in the room and repeat the same 3 colors throughout your display.
Step 9

Traditional spaces typically have decorative items arranged symmetrically. This does not require exactly the same items spread evenly, but rather the items should have the same visual "weight" (appear to be similar weight, but are actually a different shape or size). Asymmetrical displays look nice in contemporary spaces.