1) The easiest way to create a vignette is to use what decorator’s call the Rule of Three. In its simplest terms the Rule of Three means using 3 of something. That’s because 3 is the most effective and appealing to the senses. For example, using 3 colors in a room. So when you are first creating a vignette, begin with 3 items.
If you want to use more than 3 objects in your vignette, then use groupings of odd numbers because they are more appealing to the senses than even numbers. A word of caution – don’t crowd your vignette with too many objects or it could lose its visual appeal.
2) Choose objects that relate to each other in some way – by theme, color, type or shape.
3) Start with the larger objects first and fill in with smaller items. If your table is against the wall, stagger your items, with the larger items in the back. If your table is visible from all sides, then place the largest items in the center of the table.
4) Think in terms of layers and levels. Don’t display everything on your table at one height. It will appear flat and boring. Choose objects that already vary in height or elevate a few items at different levels using pedestals or a small stack of books.
5) Intermix textures and finishes within your display. For example a rough texture next to a smooth texture and a polished surface next to a dull surface.
Consider the following vignettes:
- Items for a beach theme: a book about lighthouses, a glass bowl filled with seashells and a colorful wood carving of a sailboat.
- Items for a garden theme: a miniature wheelbarrow, a bunny figurine and a large majolica bowl full of dried rose petals.
- Items of the same type: a collection of vintage clocks of various sizes.
- Items of the same color and type: a collection of white ironstone.
