How to Decorate With an IKEA Picture Ledge

The IKEA picture ledge, available in various lengths, provides a plethora of decorating options without taking up a lot of space. While originally meant for pictures, mixing in a few ornamental pieces creates a full, eye-catching look. In addition to making the ideal place for your favorite family vacation photos and decorative plates, the IKEA picture ledge also makes for a crisp spice rack in the kitchen or toiletry holder in a bathroom.



Measure up from the ground the height you want the shelf installed and mark with a pencil.


Hold a level underneath a straightedge and draw a line the length of the shelf on the wall. Hold the shelf directly above this line and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Remove the shelf.


Drill pilot holes into each mark and then tap a wall anchor into each. Place the shelf back on the wall and secure it with the provided screws directly into the wall anchors.

Decorating Ideas


Arrange larger framed pictures, prints and canvases along the back of the ledge, leaning them against the wall. Scatter smaller framed photos in front. Keep the placement somewhat haphazard for a more relaxed look rather than placing a small picture in between every larger picture. Mix your favorite paintings with family photos.


Create a long line of pictures, prints and canvases along the front of the ledge, varying the sizes of the frames for a casual look or choosing all the same sizes for a structured feel. Keep some space between each item, or overlap the edges of each picture slightly.


Maintain one similar element among each framed picture to tie them together. For example, use the same mat color when you opt for different frame styles and finishes, or use the same exact frame when mixing different paintings, pictures and shadow boxes. A common element pulls together even the most eclectic arrangement.


Install IKEA picture ledges along the height of one wall to create a decorative bookshelf, facing the books with the cover out rather than the spine. Ideal for children’s books or visually appealing covers, layer the books along each shelf, varying the height and the number of books clustered together to create constant movement along the ledge.


Mix decorative items in between books, pictures and canvases. IKEA picture ledges are typically only about 3-½ inches deep, which limits your choices. Decorate with smaller candles, stuffed animals, figurines and decorative plates. A slender vase, piece of coral, dry foliage or an antique mantel clock look stunning on their own or mixed in with photos or books.


Hang the IKEA picture ledges in a dining room or kitchen to display quality china, small collectible glasses, your favorite miniature silver serviceware or other items.


Install the picture shelf above a couch to fill the wall space, or install a continuous line of ledges around a child’s room to display old books, stuffed animals and a few toys. Hang them inside of a narrow nook to open up your decor options without jutting out into the main living space, or along a hallway.