Mapping out your arrangement with templates will help keep holes in the walls to a minimum. There are many types of hangers to choose from. Look for ones that are sturdy but discreet, letting the plate itself do the showing off. For delicate antiques, use a V-shaped hanger instead of a spring-operating one, which can put too much pressure on the rim. You'll also need a plate, kraft paper, a hammer, scissors, a wax pencil, a ruler, blue painters' tape, and a picture hook.

Hanging Plates How-To
1. Turn each plate over onto kraft paper, and trace its edges with a wax pencil; cut out. Use templates to try different formations.

2. Tape templates to wall.

3. Carefully attach an appropriately sized plate hanger to the back of each dish. (If necessary, bend back hanger clips slightly to prevent them from scratching the plate.)

4. Place plate over template, and mark where the hook will go on the template. Hammer the hook directly through template; remove paper and hang plate.