Plates are a just-right decorating accessory for any kitchen. Display your own favorites, or pick up plates the suit your fancy at flea markets or antiques stores. DIY Decorating & Design host Nancy Golden explains options for display. Note: Options for display include (clockwise from bottom right in photo, right) a metal plate bracket, a single decorative plate rack, a wooden plate rail, an ornamental multiplate rack and a dish shelf. A simple option for displaying plates is a metal plate bracket that clips onto the back of the plate (figure A). This kind of plate hanger allows you to arrange plates on the wall in any pattern you like, and its clean look and lack of ornamentation make it perfect for casual kitchens. Decorative plate racks for a single plate come in a variety of styles. An ornate pattern might be a good choice for highlighting a special plate such as a family heirloom. An attractive way to hang several of these would be to arrange them vertically, one above the other, on a wall. A plate rail is a narrow shelf with a groove that the edge of the plate slips into (figure B). Plate rails allow you to display several plates together at the same level and are often hung above cabinets or a window or at chair-rail height. A multiplate display unit allows you to display several similar-themed plates. Often fashioned in ornamental metal, this type of decorative unit would be a pleasing addition to a kitchen soffit (figure C). A dish shelf is a practical and attractive way to keep everyday plates close at hand. Install a keyhole bracket on the shelf, which allows it to hang flush against the wall. Make sure the mounting screws are installed in wall studs so the shelf will securely carry the heavy load of dishes.
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