Today is especially fun because it’s our monthly Thrifting with the Gals day! \u00a0I love joining up with some of my blogging friends to offer even more home inspiration to all of you. \u00a0Plus, since half of the decor (or more) on my shelves comes from vintage markets, antique shops, flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores, it only makes sense to share today!<\/strong><\/p>\n Don’t miss what the other ladies are sharing today too:<\/p>\n Okay!!! \u00a0Ready to decorate? \u00a0We’ve got a lot to chat about today with details and action steps to help you with your decorating. \u00a0Let’s get started!<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”how do you style a shelf like a pro – list of 7 items” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Well, I can’t say I’m a pro. \u00a0However, if you consider lots of trial, error, and experimenting as experience, I’m your girl!<\/p>\n Here are 7 steps I follow when I want to decorate shelves in any room. \u00a0We will look at each step in more detail along with actionable tips for you to follow too.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Fall-transition-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Fall transition” admin_label=”IMG fall transition” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Table of Contents DRAFT” _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_text][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”BLOG TITLE” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”1. clear the space” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n To me, plain shelves are much easier to decorate than partially filled or cluttered shelves. \u00a0The first step you’ll want to take is to completely clear the shelving unit you’re working with. \u00a0I think this is the worst part of the job. \u00a0However, I promise it makes styling so much easier and all of the other steps will flow more freely!<\/p>\n As I clear the shelves, I like to put like items together<\/strong>. \u00a0This will help me with the other following steps and also make it easier to find things!<\/p>\n If there are things you know you no longer want to use or do not fit the space, go ahead and put them into donate\/sell\/toss piles!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Clear-the-space–scaled.jpg” title_text=”Clear the space” admin_label=”IMG clear the space” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”2. choose 3 inspirational items” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n This might be a little bit different concept but I find it incredibly helpful.<\/strong> \u00a0For example, in my dining room, I have a lot of smaller items on these apothecary shelves. \u00a0To help me decide the overall look I wanted for my summer decor, I chose 3 kinds of items:<\/p>\n By choosing 3 items, it helped me to decide the overall style<\/strong> as well as which items to use and which pieces to store away for another day.<\/p>\n It’s not that these are the only 3 items you see on the shelf styling (we will get to more of that later on). \u00a0However, in general, over 90% of the items used on the shelves tie into these 3 elements.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/3-inspirational-items-scaled.jpg” title_text=”3 inspirational items” admin_label=”IMG 3 inspirational items” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”3. divide shelves into sections” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If you’re staring at a large, blank bookshelf or maybe even a wall of shelves, bless you. \u00a0With Action Step 2, you hopefully now have an overall idea of how your shelf styling should go. However, getting started can feel challenging.<\/p>\n So, to help you get started, take Action Step 3:<\/p>\n My apothecary isn’t that large and the shelves are already naturally divided by how how the furniture is built. \u00a0Your shelves may have brackets or natural divisions, also, so lean into those.<\/p>\n However, if your shelves are just long and open, you may want to visually divide your shelves into sections.<\/strong> \u00a0A grid format can be really helpful. \u00a0If I’m working with a really large shelf, I will typically divide it into a 9 square grid, 3 by 3.<\/p>\n A larger shelf may need an expanded grid, however.<\/p>\n Pro Tip: Divide your shelf into odd numbers if possible.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n As I say that, I do realize that my shelves are in a 2 by 3 format. \u00a0Since I can’t really do much about that, though, I just roll with it!<\/strong><\/em> \u00a0As you can see below, I think of mine in kind of a cross-grid format, balancing the top right with the bottom left and so on.<\/p>\n Essentially, in the next steps, you are going to place decor on your shelves within that grid format. This will help you keep an organized, balanced look to your shelf styling<\/strong> that doesn’t feel cluttered or overwhelmed.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Divide-into-sections-.jpg” title_text=”Divide into sections” admin_label=”IMG divide into sections” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”4. add large items first \/ balance” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n It’s finally time to start actually decorating your shelves! \u00a0This is so exciting! \u00a0Remember, nothing is too permanent and you are just playing around and experimenting<\/strong> until you get it like you want it. \u00a0I try to not overthink (if my husband reads this, he’s going to laugh out loud at that statement!) and just go with my first instinct.<\/p>\n First, you are going to place your larger items.<\/strong> \u00a0Keep your grid in mind and space out larger items. \u00a0You likely will not want all of your large items in one row or column. \u00a0I try to think of the larger items as not being next to one another.<\/strong><\/p>\n For my 2 x 3 shelving unit, it may look something like this:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Add-larger-items-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Add larger items” admin_label=”IMG add larger items ” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”4. add large items first \/ balance” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Keep in mind that you can add smaller pieces and layers (we will chat about that too) so this isn’t the final look.<\/strong><\/p>\n However, placing those larger items first will help you create more balance in your overall shelf decor.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Large-items-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Large items” admin_label=”IMG large items” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”5. repeat color, texture, style” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n As you start placing smaller items on the other shelves, you’ll want to use repetition.<\/strong> \u00a0Repeating color, texture, pattern, and style will give your shelves a cohesive, organized look.<\/p>\n Remember those 3 items you chose in step 2? \u00a0Those are the colors, textures, patterns, and styles that you want to repeat throughout your shelf styling.<\/p>\n Even though no two shelves are exactly the same on my apothecary, the repetition of the white mortar and pestles, glass elements, and white wood accents are easy to recognize!<\/strong><\/p>\n It is perfectly okay to add some unique elements in there too. \u00a0For example, the vintage beach sign is completely on its own and isn’t part of any of those 3 inspirational elements. \u00a0However, it is mostly white, so it does connect with color, as the wood of the sign is white.<\/p>\n Once your large pieces are in and you’ve added repeated styles of your 3 inspirational items, have some fun with those accents that really make a statement. \u00a0I’m getting ahead of myself, though!<\/p>\n Pro Tip: Even if you have a lot of decor on the shelves, the repetition will help it feel curated rather than cluttered!<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Repeat-texture-and-style–scaled.jpg” title_text=”Repeat texture and style” admin_label=”IMG repeat texture and style” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Repeat-color-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Repeat color” admin_label=”IMG repeat color” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”6. add layers” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n NOW we can chat about adding those accents!<\/p>\n You may be looking at your shelves now, and if you like a vintage style like me, you may feel like they are just a little too “average.”<\/p>\n Adding layers will elevate your shelf styling<\/strong> from that “too perfect of a house” style (yes, I think that is a style, haha!) to that of a thoughtfully curated home.<\/p>\n In these summer shelves, you can see small layering details like a piece of coral resting beside a stack of mortar and pestles. \u00a0Perhaps the larger layer of the vintage art piece tucked behind the trio of mortar and pestles caught your eye! \u00a0Adding palm branches to a grouping of vintage crocks gives extra dimension t<\/strong>o this styling as well.<\/p>\n Action step 6 is the perfect time for you to play around, move pieces around, add and take away, and experiment with some of your favorite accents that maybe don’t fit into the “3 inspirational piece” rule.<\/p>\n At the end of the day, what YOU LOVE is what is right for the space!<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Add-layers-1-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Add layers 1″ admin_label=”IMG add layers” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”7. walk away, then edit” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Rarely do I get my shelf styling just how I want it on the first try. \u00a0In fact, I found it most helpful to go with my first instincts when styling. \u00a0Then, I walk away before I have time to overthink it too much.<\/strong> \u00a0When I come back with fresh eyes a little later…even a day or two later…I am able to more easily see what works and what I want to tweak.<\/p>\n No matter what you may be decorating, this action step is really important!<\/p>\n Pro Tip: If you find you don’t love it but can’t figure out what, take a picture to look at later. \u00a0Sometimes the camera catches the detail that I’m missing when\u00a0I see it in person! \u00a0That sounds a little counterintuitive, but sometimes it is really helpful!<\/i><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Walk-away-and-then-edit-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Walk away and then edit” admin_label=”IMG walk away then edit” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_divider _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_divider][et_pb_text admin_label=”shop my storefront – idea list of shelf decor accessories” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Over on my storefront<\/a><\/strong>,<\/span> I put together a list with some of my favorite kinds of accents and accessories for styling shelves<\/span>.<\/a><\/strong> \u00a0You’ll find some seasonal accents. \u00a0However, I’ve mostly included some favorites that can be used year round and with different kinds of decor.<\/p>\n From functional and practical to just plain cute, these shelf accessories<\/a><\/strong> <\/span>can help you get your shelves styled easily!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Finished-shelves-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Finished shelves” admin_label=”IMG finished shelves” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”seasons” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Below, you can see examples of these same shelves styled for different seasons and holidays<\/strong>. \u00a0Look carefully and note how often I reuse some of the same decor pieces!<\/strong> \u00a0You don’t have to replace everything for each season; rearranging and adding key seasonal touches makes all the difference!<\/p>\n If you’re wondering how to decorate shelves for different seasons, hopefully these pictures will give you inspiration. \u00a0Make sure to pin your favorites to refer back to during that season!<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Fall-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Fall” admin_label=”IMG fall” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Thanksgiving-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Thanksgiving” admin_label=”IMG Thanksgiving” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Christmas–scaled.jpg” title_text=”Christmas” admin_label=”IMG Christmas” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Spring-scaled.jpg” title_text=”Spring” admin_label=”IMG spring” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Easter–scaled.jpg” title_text=”Easter” admin_label=”IMG Easter” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Simple Decor Series posts – ADD LINK FOR SHELVES POST” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I have a growing library of what I call my “Simple Decor Series.” \u00a0These are tips and action steps to help you with some of my most requested decor areas. \u00a0I hope you find fresh ideas, decor help, and enjoyment from these posts also:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”wrap up” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n If you follow these action steps, give yourself lots of grace and patience, and just have fun with it, you are going to be able to create shelf styling that adds so much character and interest to your home decor!<\/p>\n Thanks for joining me for another Simple Decor Series post! \u00a0I’d love for you to share it with a friend if you found this to be helpful!<\/strong><\/p>\n Don’t forget to click on over to the other Thrifting with the Gals posts to see the DIY ideas, thrift store finds, makeovers, and decor inspiration today!<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”D&D” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Ann from Dabbling and Decorating<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Dabbling-_-Decorating.jpg” title_text=”Dabbling _ Decorating” url=”https:\/\/www.dabblinganddecorating.com\/old-fashioned-bargains-and-3-summer-vintage-markets\/” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”Dabblgin & Decoratgin img” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Rachel” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Rachel from The Pond’s Farmhouse<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/The-Ponds-Farmhouse-30-thrift-store-.jpg” title_text=”The Ponds Farmhouse – 30 thrift store” url=”https:\/\/www.thepondsfarmhouse.com\/30-mind-blowing-upcycled-thrift-store-decor-transformations\/” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”Rachels’ Pond img” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”White Arrows” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Kristin from White Arrows Home<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Kristin-_-White-Arrows-Home-_-Thermos.jpg” title_text=”Kristin _ White Arrows Home _ Thermos” url=”https:\/\/whitearrowshome.com\/thermos-thursday-on-instagram-inspires-collecting-and-decor” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”White Arrows img” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”Black & White” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Bree from My Little Black and White House<\/a><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/robynsfrenchnest.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Bree-Tetz-My-Little-Black-and-White-House-JUly.jpg” title_text=”Bree Tetz -My Little Black and White House JUly” url=”https:\/\/www.mylittleblackandwhitehouse.com\/creative-uses-for-an-antique-quilt-rack” url_new_window=”on” admin_label=”Black & White House img” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” width=”70%” module_alignment=”center” max_height=”750px” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=”other posts to enjoy” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Follow Me” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n I’d love for you to follow me on social media! \u00a0You can find my home decor inspiration on Instagram<\/strong><\/a>, Pinterest<\/a>,\u00a0<\/strong>and\u00a0Facebook<\/a>! \u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”Closing” _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Blessings,<\/strong><\/p>\n\n
How do you style a shelf like a pro?<\/em><\/h3>\n
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How to Decorate Shelves in 7 Easy Steps: Simple Decor Series<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Step #1 How to Decorate Shelves: Clear the shelves completely.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How do you decorate plain shelves?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Action Step 1: Completely clear the shelves and group like items together as you take them off the shelves.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Step #2 How to Decorate Shelves: Choose 3 items to inspire your styling.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Action Step 2: Choose 3 items that determine the overall color, style, and\/or pattern that you’ll use in your shelf styling. \u00a0This will help guide your decorating more easily.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Step #3 How to Decorate Shelves: Divide the shelves into sections.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How do you decorate a lot of shelves?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Action Step 3: Divide the shelving into smaller sections.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Step #4 How to Decorate Shelves: Place large items first.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Action Step 4: Place larger items, intentionally spacing them out so they are balanced.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Step #5 How to Decorate Shelves: Repetition<\/strong><\/h3>\n
How do I make my shelves look organized?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Action Step 5: Begin placing smaller items on the shelves, repeating color, texture, pattern, and style.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Step #6 How to Decorate Shelves: Add layers.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Action Step 6: Add unique accent pieces layered in front of and behind your decor. \u00a0Vintage art, mirrors, greenery, and small seasonal object are great layering pieces.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Step #7 How to Decorate Shelves: Walk away, then\u00a0come come back and edit.<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Action Step 7: Walk away and don’t overthink. \u00a0After a couple of hours or even a couple of days have passed, take a look at your space with fresh eyes.<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Need more shelf styling inspiration?<\/em><\/h3>\n
How to decorate between seasons?<\/em><\/h3>\n
Check out my\u00a0<\/em>Simple Decor Series:<\/i><\/h3>\n
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Now you know how to decorate shelves!<\/em><\/h3>\n
You may also enjoy these posts:<\/em><\/h3>\n
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