Books are great for ...ummm ...reading! But guess what? They are also fabulous for decorating!
Use book stacks to add interest to bedside tables, coffee tables, kitchens, and of course, book shelves! Books are great for adding color, texture, and different height levels for items on display.
There are a few different ways you can arrange them.
1) By theme - In my kitchen I have vintage cook books and entertaining books. I use them to prop up collectables, and add interest. Since my kitchen has a red cherry theme, I try and find books with a touch of red on the title or cover graphics.
2) By color - Collect a stack of books that are in a color scheme of your decor. I used a stack of bright orange books in my hallway, and a stack of neutral books in my guest room.
3) By title or subject matter - I helped my husband decorate his boring office shelves with some books and knick-knacks. He is a chemical engineer, so I used a variety of books about geology, math, science, and minerals. All of his actual work related materials are cold and new looking. So adding worn in, canvas covered vintage books helps warm up the place a bit, and adds a homey feel.
You can also arrange books by the title... which really makes the book hunting fun! I have a stack of books that all have the word "Love" in the title written down the spine. Another stack I have is a little more tongue and cheek - all titles about murder and death.
As you can see, the possibilities are endless. Here are a couple more pics of books stacks in my home.
This weekend's sale is the perfect place to start. Remember, part of the fun is the hunt! Mix and match books to create the look you are after. Remember to look under book jackets, sometimes a beautiful binding is hiding under a paper jacket.
