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Picture-Perfect Decorating
For an eye-catching display with a modern edge, gather black-and-white photographs and matt and frame them alike. Hang picture shelves (an odd number is visually the best). Then, lean and overlap the prints to avoid blanks spaces on the wall. Fill in with a few contemporary accessories that will provide a contrast to the photos.
Your kitchen backsplash can be a great spot to display photos - just apply a cork backing. Purchase enough 12-inch-square cork tiles to cover the backsplash area. Working with one piece at a time and using a sharp utility knife, cut each tile to fit around windows, cupboards, or trim work. Seal tile front and sides with a coat or two of water-based polyurethane and let it dry. Apply thin coats of water-based contact cement to the tile and wall, and press the tile into position.
Cut and adhere the next tile in the same way, making sure not to leave gaps. For added strength, run a bead of contact cement along the edge of one tile before butting the next one up to it. Then, tack your favorite photos into place. If the cork begins to chip after a few years, seal the surface with another coat of varnish.
