How to Decorate with Vintage Christmas Plates (No China Cabinet Required)
There’s something so nostalgic about vintage Christmas plates. Each one tells a little story — a snowy village, a jolly Santa, a scene that feels pulled straight from a Hallmark movie. But instead of tucking them away in a cabinet, I love using them as art.
Whether you’ve collected them for years or just stumbled on a few while thrifting, these festive plates can bring instant warmth to your home. Here’s how to turn them into the most charming wall décor this holiday season.
Step 1: Choose Your Hanging Method
Option 1: Adhesive Plate Hangers (no holes!)
If you’re renting or just don’t want to damage the walls, disc adhesive plate hangers are your best friend.
Wipe the back of the plate with rubbing alcohol.
Apply the adhesive disc and let it dry overnight.
Hang using a small nail or command hook.
Click here to purchase the adhesive hangers.
Option 2: Wire Plate Hangers (classic + secure)
Perfect for heavier collector’s plates. Look for spring-loaded ones with rubber tips to protect your pieces. Click here to buy on Amazon - super cheap but my favorite way to hang plates!
Option 3: Invisible Hook Hack
For inexpensive plates, glue a small sawtooth picture hanger to the back using E6000. Once dry, it’s completely hidden. Click here to purchase the hooks.
Step 2: Create Your Layout
Think of your wall as a gallery. Odd numbers always feel most natural — groups of 3, 5, or 7 work beautifully.
Start with your largest plate in the center.
Add smaller plates diagonally around it.
Mix in subtle holiday greenery, ribbon, or even a vintage bow for texture.
Pro tip: Lay everything out on the floor first before committing to the wall — it saves a lot of nail holes and second-guessing!
Step 3: Play with Color & Style
Coordinate plates that share similar tones — reds and greens for a traditional Christmas look, or mix icy blues and whites for a cozy winter feel. You can even layer plates from different decades for that perfectly collected-over-time charm.
If your home leans neutral, let the plates be your pop of color. They instantly make any space feel warm and intentional.
Step 4: Pick the Perfect Spot
You don’t need a full dining room wall to make this work! Try:
Above your coffee bar or sideboard for an instant festive vignette.
In your kitchen nook around a window or shelf.
In an entryway or hallway to greet guests with a touch of nostalgia.
I even love hanging a single statement plate above a wreath for a layered look that feels timeless and unique.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to start your own collection (or expand one!), I’ve curated a set of vintage Christmas plates that ship fast and arrive gift-ready — perfect for styling or gifting this season.
➤ Follow me on Pinterest for daily inspiration, and check out the latest vintage finds in my Etsy shop before they’re gone!
Happy decorating, friends!
