What Can I Put in a China Cabinet Besides Plates?

Accents

• If you want to display your china in the cabinet but want additional decoration, add accent pieces into the cabinet. Decorative lace that hangs down slightly in front of the shelf is a classic option that matches well with traditional china. Incorporate framed photos along with your plates for a personalized display. If the china is a family heirloom, include pictures of other generations who used the china. Silk flowers add a complementary touch to the plates while keeping a classic feel. If you're looking for contemporary accents, try river rocks, colored marbles or strands of lights weaving among the plates.

Mix and Match

• If you don't want to display your china in the cabinet, mix and match various display pieces. Gather your favorite decorative pieces from around the house to create a custom display that reflects your tastes. Choose pieces that have personal meaning or bring back positive memories for you. An eclectic combination of items makes the display visually interesting. Examples of items include framed photos, candles, mementos, souvenirs from vacations and family heirlooms. Arrange items of varying heights together so all items are visible.

Artwork

• A china cabinet provides a showcase option for small pieces of art, especially if the cabinet includes lighting that will highlight the art. Small framed paintings or other two-dimensional pieces of art work well when propped against the back or set up in a plate holder-style stand. Sculptures and other three-dimensional forms of art offer a freestanding option to include in your art display. Choose local artists, famous artists or young artists in the family to display.

Seasonal

• For a changing display, use the china cabinet for seasonal items. If you have holiday or seasonal china, add those items as the main components. Fill in other items that match the theme to vary the display. For example, in a Christmas display you might include Christmas china, a miniature Christmas tree, pine boughs along the shelves, strands of Christmas lights, ball ornaments and tinsel. If you don't have china for the specific holiday or season, simply fill the case with holiday decor or accent your regular china with the holiday decorations.