How to Decorate Armoire Shelves

Paint the inside of the armoire a bold color. Paint it a dramatic color, like black or hot pink. Alternatively, paint stripes along the back wall or paint the shelves different colors than the inner walls are painted. These color contradictions will make a bold statement when you open the unit doors.

Choose shelf paper in a color or pattern you like. Measure the shelves and cut the paper to the appropriate size. Use a ruler or yardstick to make sure the edges are straight. Cover the shelves with the shelf paper. Contact paper and magnetic paper will hold in place without help. If your paper is not sticky or magnetic, use a double-sided tape around the edges to secure it.

Get some attractive coordinating storage containers for storage solutions, such as CD storage boxes, magazine holders or a paper tray. Choose colors that stands out on the inside color of your armoire.

Select some attractive items to go on your armoire shelves, such as photo frames or figurines. Choose items of various sizes and shapes to create interest.

Put in and hook up any electronics in your armoire first. After they are securely in place and wired, add your storage containers, spacing them evenly. Add a few homey touches with your personal decorations.

Give small items more height and prominence by placing them on top of a stack of books. The stack will serve as a pedestal that raises them, thus elevating their importance.

Arrange all items on the armiore shelves using the "rule of thirds." The rule of thirds is a decorating guideline for shelving units in which you use one-third of the space for storage, use one-third for decorations and leave one-third of the space empty. The empty space helps prevent the shelf from looking cluttered because it gives the eyes a resting spot.