An effortless way to add a little professional decorator pizzazz to your home is to create little décor arrangements or vignettes atop bare tables or shelves. Now, as we defined a couple of weeks ago, a vignette or tablescape is a “grouping or collection of bits and pieces purposefully arranged for display” – you can read the rest of our Décor Dictionary definition: here.
In all essence you are creating a scene or décor still life. A vignette gives your room a more refined appearance – it is an easy way to create a focal point and add interest to your space.
Here are six uncomplicated steps to creating a successful décor vignette…
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Stick to a style or theme:
One of the keys to a successful vignette is unity through a common theme or style. It is important to insure that the style of your tablescape does not veer too far away from your room style – a Shabby Chic-decorated space with a stark Contemporary vignette will look out of place. A vignette does not necessarily have to have a theme; however it is an excellent way to create a cohesive scene. For example: a nautical arrangement.
Vary the height, size, texture, and shape of the objects:
A successful vignette greatly depends on contrast and balance. Give your vignette height – play with a tall vase or a lamp. Mix in décor items – some small, some large; some skinny and tall, others that are short and tubby; round and square; shiny and natural – the interest is in the contradiction.
Create depth by layering:
Work from the back to the front of your table – bigger items at the back, smaller ones at the front. Use a larger object, such as a mirror or piece of art, as an anchor and arrange your collections around that. Don’t be afraid to overlap items – positioning a painting in front of a bigger mirror can be quite effective. Group items instead of placing them in linear lines – this creates the needed dimension.
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Group objects in odd numbers:
For some reason odd numbered groupings have a greater visually impact than even numbered ones. Place décor items that share a similar shape, size or colour together in odd numbers – collections of threes work particularly well.
Get personal:
Add something of yourself to the vignette – it is no good replicating a vignette you saw in a magazine or on the net if it doesn’t speak of who you are. Use family photos in a variety of frames or include little keepsakes and mementos (such as grandpa’s old pocket watch). We collect things because we find them interesting or appealing. Why not include a small grouping of what you find beautiful, whether it is pieces of antique cutlery or a couple of ceramic birdies. Add what you love.
Fiddle:
Most important of all – fiddle! Take a step back and review your newly created vignette. If it doesn’t sit well with you move items around, eliminate or add as you see fit. Playing forms a big part of decorating. Fiddle until it is just right! And remember… have fun!
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The Design Tabloid 
Ooh… these are so glamorous… and what an easy way to add or change the look of your décor!
Great article ladies. Creating vignettes are one of my favourite things to do. I definitely agree with step 6: fiddle. To me that is the secret to a great vignette, restless hands,
I agree, thanks, feeling thoughtfully inspired!
[…] arrangement or “vignette”. If you need some tips on creating a perfect vignette, see our post: here. Oh, and don’t forget to use the decorator’s organisational best friend – the […]