Maybe the recent shift from shop-girl to stay-at-home-mom has given me an excess of pent-up creative energy. Or it could be that the construction in the backyard has re-birthed an enthusiasm toward our home. Likely it's the time I have been spending on various design blogs that is responsible for my feelings of domestic inadequacy and my urgent need for an interior overhaul. Problem is, it is very difficult to accomplish even the little projects, while tending to an active 8-month old. But yesterday, I just went for it and started multiple projects. Most of my walls (where photographs and miscellaneous art once hung) are now bare. With the current state of the economy and the expense of our garage addition, I need not spend frivolously on new decor. So I am attempting to move things around and revamp the place with what I already have. Here is a photo of a wall of bold, graphic plates in an interesting arrangement. I am going to try to achieve this look in my kitchen:
I am not new to the art of plate-hanging. In fact, my mom practically invented it. She is coming over today to see Willa, and I have a fool-proof plan will suck her right in. I will lay out all of my plates, leaving no room to play, work, or breathe. And I will cleverly direct her attention to my pathetically naked wall. She will be putty in my hands! Watch for the results tomorrow...
Well, here it is. I'm a day late to post, but did you really expect any different? When my mom came over, she was totally in, just as I predicted. But between the two of us, we decided that I needed a few more plates. So yesterday, I hit the antique mall and found 3 new ones to add to the mix. Once I laid them all out, I got really excited about it and just couldn't wait for my mom. She was with me in spirit, definitely, as I remembered and followed her no-fail tips for plate-hanging. #1 Lay out your design prior to hanging to avoid putting unneccesary nail holes in your wall...I wanted an arching pattern that would draw the eye up and emphasize the back door and it's sunny view of the yard. #2 Keep your spacing consistent...I went with about a 3 inch gap between all of my plates to give it a clean and airy feel. #3 Avoid placing plates of similar shape (with the exception of round ones,) size, pattern, and color next to one another. I tried to spread out the solids and mix up the styles, but kept with a set color palette. And #4 It's not permanent, so don't overthink it. I had to keep repeating this one like a mantra. I have a habit of overthinking (everything.) I am thoroughly pleased with the results and I love my kitchen again!
