I get asked often about how to hang plates on the wall, and since I keep collecting and displaying more, here’s an updated, practical guide on my preferred method.
Over the years I’ve tried several approaches, and the best solution I’ve found for most plates and shallow bowls are adhesive plate hangers paired with small picture hangers or nails.
These adhesive hangers come in multiple sizes, so check the weight and size of the piece you’re hanging and pick the appropriate option.
They are simple to apply and have been reliable when used according to the manufacturer’s directions. The adhesive needs time to cure—typically overnight—so the hanger bonds securely to the plate before you hang it.
I also keep small picture hangers on hand for art and lightweight items; the smaller styles work well for plates and are visually neater than exposed hooks or bulky wire hangers. On plaster walls, these picture hangers are often gentler and less likely to cause damage.
Why I prefer adhesive hangers: they are mostly invisible from the front, they don’t touch or scratch the plate’s rim, and they avoid the gap from the wall that many wire hangers create. Wire clamps often reveal themselves around the edge and can be awkward to fit, increasing the risk of chipping a plate.
Applied correctly, these adhesive hangers are discreet and won’t be visible when you view the plate head-on.
To ensure a flat, stable mount, I position the adhesive pad or disc on the back of the plate where it will support the center of gravity and let the glue cure fully before lifting the plate to the wall. This helps the piece sit flush and prevents it from tilting.
Plates on a wall feel charming—small, framed artworks that are affordable to collect. Thrift stores, antique shops, and secondhand markets are great places to find interesting plates that add personality to a space.
Mixing plates into a gallery wall can soften all the rectangular frames; a single special plate or bowl can also act as a focal point. You can create a cohesive look with a matched set, or embrace an eclectic display of mismatched pieces. Using what you already have—whether inherited china or found objects—turns them into a personal, decorative statement.
Have you tried hanging plates on the wall?
