Making your bookshelf look pretty can seem like a daunting task. Sure, you’ve seen those amazing pictures on Pinterest but when you try it on your own, it just looks blah. With these expert tips, you won’t have to worry about it!
1. Update your shelf or built-ins
Before you start styling, you need to have a pretty backdrop to work with. Make sure you like the shelf you’re going to be working with. If you don’t, here are some options to check out. If you have a built-in shelf, you can update it by painting just the back of the shelf or by wallpapering it. Click here to get my free paint color guide.
2. Choose a Color Palette
I would recommend choosing a few colors that you like (I would say max 3 colors.) This will help give your shelf a cohesive look. Let what’s already in the room be your guide for this.
3. Create Groupings of Three
Objects grouped in threes are more visually appealing and flow better. If you’re having a hard time styling a shelf, try creating a group with three items and see how you like it.
4. Artwork and Family Photos
Using art and family photos help make your shelf personal and show off who and what you love.
5. Vases and Bowls
Vases and bowls can add height to your setup and make it look perfect.
6. Books
This may seem like an obvious one 🙂 You can use books you already have (and don’t use often) or you can buy decorative books on Etsy. You can use books as a standalone decor object or to add height for a smaller object. Stack them either vertically or horizontally for a pulled together look.
7. Plants
Using plants and greenery (whether faux or real) adds that little something to your shelf. Click here for the best faux plants.
8. Sculptural Objects
Sculptural objects like this knot pack a punch and look so pretty.
9. Edit
Stand back and see if you like the way the space turned out. If yes, awesome, you’re done! If not, try playing around and switching things up. Make sure you have negative space on your shelves-you don’t want it to look cluttered. Keep trying different arrangements until you love it!
With these simple tips, go decorate your shelves like a pro!
I recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
