How to Hang Plates on the Wall (Easy DIY Plate Wall)

How to Hang Plates on the Wall is just what you need to know when you’re wanting to give your home a little facelift. Decorative plates are a great way to create a focal point in any room, displaying family heirlooms and treasured finds.

How to Curate and Install an Antique Plate Wall (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Plates!)

Antique plate walls are back—and they’re not just for your grandma’s dining room anymore.

Whether you’re going for a grandmillennial moment or a touch of timeless charm, hanging vintage plates is an easy, affordable way to add personality to your walls.

The one I installed in my home brings me so much joy on a daily basis! I’ve loved adding to it, or changing out plates to fit the season.

Here’s how to curate and install a beautiful plate wall without hammering your way into regret.

Step 1: Curate Your Collection

Start small. You don’t need 30 plates on day one. Look for:

Variety in size and shape – mix dinner, salad, and bread plates.
A color story – think all blue and white, or florals in soft pastels.
Texture and detail – scalloped edges, gold rims, or hand-painted designs add interest.

Where to shop: Thrift stores, estate sales, antique malls, Etsy, or even your grandma’s china cabinet (with permission!).

Most of my plates were gifted to me by my grandmother, friends, or people who know I love “old things!” I also love picking up a plate or two in a thrift store! It’s so fun when I’m in an antique store while traveling and get to bring home a plate from that area.

Step 2: Plan the Layout

Before you hang anything, lay your plates out on the floor or a big table.
Tips:

Start with the largest plate as your anchor. It doesn’t have to be a plate, either! You can hang a big serving platter or tray!
Work outward, keeping spacing about 2–3 inches between each plate.
Snap a photo of your layout to reference later.

Optional but helpful: Trace plates onto paper, cut them out, and tape them to your wall for a preview.

If you’re unsure how you’ll feel about the layout, create fake ones with kraft paper, tape them up on the wall and let it hang out a few days. Walk by and see if you need to adjust any, etc.

I did not do this. First, I let my friend install the wall! She and I have the same thoughts; put it up and see what happens! You can always move things around.

Step 3: Pick Your Hanging Method

You’ve got options!

1. Wire Plate Hangers

Best for heavier or valuable plates.
Spring-loaded, easy to use, and secure.
Bonus: they’re reusable and don’t damage the plate.
I love this option because I can still use the plate if needed.
Using spring-loaded hangers allows you to change out your plates with the season.

2. Adhesive Plate Discs (like Disc Hangers)

Invisible once hung.
Great for a clean look without metal showing.
Make sure the surface is clean, and let it cure for 24 hours before hanging.
These adhesive discs have been used for years, and people still rave about them!

3. Invisible Adhesive Plate Hanger

These Invisible Adhesive Plate Hangers are my favorite hanging options. They instantly stick, and you just hang them on a nail.
If you have different sizes of plates, this one size will fit on the back of the plate. Even my tiny coasters fit the sticker!

Step 4: Hang It Up

Use a small nail or wall hook for wire hangers, or follow instructions for discs or strips.
Pro Tip: Start with the center plate and work outward to keep your spacing on track.

I love having an assorted nail kit in my tool drawer. I carry it with me when I’m hanging things, and always have what I need right at my fingertips!

Bonus Tips

Use a level or laser guide for straight lines if you’re going for symmetry.
Mix in art or small mirrors for a gallery wall feel.
Keep it flexible—swapping out plates seasonally is easy and fun.

Whether you’re creating a curated corner in the kitchen or a full dining room feature wall, antique plates add charm, character, and a story to your space. Start with what you love, hang with confidence, and let your wall tell the tale.