The best things to hang on a wall besides artwork

When you think of an empty wall as a display waiting to happen, it gives your creativity a chance to fire up. Instead of traditional prints, posters or photos, consider hanging other things that are more custom — the piece of antique lace that once belonged to your great-grandmother, your collection of charming teapots, a giant-size version of your initials.

This new decorative element could be just what your living space needs to look refreshed. Consider these options:

Maps

Maps make a glorious graphic statement in any room, and the variety is endless. You can hang a map of the city or state where you were born, your favorite vacation spot, the country where your family originated from. If you want to hang a few maps on one wall, they should be of similar sizes and in matching frames to create a cohesive look.

Fabric

Got a beautiful piece of material that's been sitting in the back of your closet because you didn't know what to do with it? Turn it into wall art. Wrap the material around an appropriately sized canvas, staple it and add a frame.

Calendar

Instead of a traditional paper wall calendar, opt for an acrylic one that's modern and reusable. A dry-erase marker will easily wipe off when you need to update your calendar; Use it to help keep everyone organized and aware of appointments, practices and other important events.

Clocks

The look of a vintage clock on a wall gives a home loads of nostalgic charm. Be sure to install them in rooms where occupants can handle the noise like a dining room or kitchen rather than an office or guest room.

Mirrors

These shiny surfaces don't just belong on a medicine cabinet or atop a dresser. Install them wherever you want reflection and light, such as a dark entryway. Try hanging a large mirror in a powder room and small mirrors in groupings of three along a hallway.

Collections

Why hide your treasured objects in boxes in the basement? Show them off on an empty wall where they can be seen and appreciated by visitors. Use shelves or hooks to hold these special objects, whether toy cars, vintage cameras or baseball cards.

Mugs

What you hang on a wall doesn't always have to just be decorative — it can be practical, too. If you're short on storage space in your kitchen, for example, take your coffee mugs out of the cabinet and display them on a pretty metal or rattan shelf that matches the room's style.

Oversize letters

Make a personal statement in a living room or den when you hang giant letters that represent your initials or those that send a message (“LOVE IS LOVE”).