As we continue our list of ideas to dabble in decor, I hope you take time to try some of these ideas — the choices I’m listing today can add newness to your home.

Add wow

Place an item, or an entire collection, in front of a mirror, on a fireplace mantel or on top of a bureau. See how they become more significant? Mirrored trays are also good places to gather collections for maximum impact.

Kitchen accessory

Make a pot rack from an old ladder, the kind with the dowel rungs. Use S hooks, chain and bolts to secure as this is a weighty accessory. A great look for French country.

Frame fabric

Look for high-quality pieces at low prices and while collecting, create a theme and vary frame styles for interest.

Backgrounds matter

If you display collectibles in a glass cabinet, why not attach wallpaper or fabric? Just choose a pattern that complements the contents and cabinet style.

Display items on easels

Made from wrought iron, wood or bamboo and show everything from watercolours, magazines or books.

Focus on frames

Paint wooden frames white and hang them on a coloured wall for graphic effect.

Lean things against walls

Use art or mirrors and you have your own exhibit. (No nails so you can change it up often.)

Ordinary things in extraordinary containers

Everyday items like pencils, make up brushes, or towels can be put in baskets, pitchers, and decanters to make our things look special.

Spa like touches to the bath

Roll towels and washcloths to place in a large basket or copper firewood tub, or fill an old watering can with posies and perch on the floor near the tub.

Control ambience

Have dimmer switches installed. They provide an instant mood change for any room.

Skirt sinks/tables

Hide your makeshift storage under sinks with vintage or tulle fabric. Attach with Velcro strips.

Table accessory

Use sparkle buckles for your napkin rings. (Shiny is eye catching!)

Trick the eye

If windows are narrow, make them look wider by hanging floor-length curtains on a rod that allows the curtain to expose the moulding, or make windows appear taller by installing rods closer to the ceiling.

Store books in interesting ways

Stack books on wooden benches or side chairs.

Repurpose furniture

Turn a collection of vintage suitcases into a novel side table.

Remove rugs

When warmer weather comes, a polished floor will change the mood and feel of any room.

Five things to remember

Some of these ideas are simple and some will take more work, but whatever idea you decide to try, keep these five things in mind:

1. Group similar objects
2. Have at least one unifying element colour, shape or material;
3. Create a focal point Let the colour of the pieces guide your decorating scheme;
4. Find interesting ways to display and use the items in the collection.
5. Remember, finding the good stuff to decorate with is “the thrill of the find,” so have fun!