Let Your Walls Tell a Story with a Plate Gallery

Transform your living space into a collection of memories by creating a stunning plate gallery! I have found that decorative plates are one of the best ways to infuse character into any wall, regardless of size or shape. The design, layout, and color options are virtually endless!

Gone are the days when plates were just classic decor—today’s creativity and trends allow them to fit perfectly in every style, from casual to elegant, contemporary to whimsical. There are no rules when it comes to styling your plate gallery, so let your creativity shine! A well-designed plate display can express your personality, spark conversation, and add visual interest to even the trickiest wall space.

Using plates is an affordable option for great design. I get to enjoy their beauty without the commitment of pricier art pieces. Over time, it’s easy to expand my collection, incorporate new colors, or swap pieces out whenever I crave a change!

Plates are widely available with options for every budget. Each one tells a story—whether it’s a cherished heirloom, a treasure from my travels, or a quirky thrift store find. Some of my favorites were unearthed at antique shops, inherited from my grand, or discovered on Facebook Marketplace.

To create larger displays, I start by laying the plates out on the floor or a large surface that mimics the wall space where I’ll hang them. I play with the arrangement, moving them around until it feels just right. Once satisfied, I trace each plate onto butcher paper or brown Trader Joe’s bags (a solid color that contrasts with your wall works best!). I cut out the patterns and use painter’s tape to temporarily arrange them on the wall. Stepping back for a better view often reveals any necessary adjustments. If needed, I’ll add more plates in various sizes until I find the perfect balance.

For smaller, lightweight plates, I love using Invisible Plate Hangers—just add water to activate the adhesive, press it firmly in place, and let it dry! For larger platters or plates, wire plate hangers do the job perfectly. You can mix both types on the same wall; just measure accordingly!

Check out my Pinterest board titled "Plate Gallery Wall" for some of my favorite designs or to spark your own inspiration!

What stories will your plates share? . . .

Please share your gallery inspirations with me—I’d love to see!