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Plan a display shelf

Use spacing, height, and a clear focal point to make a small display easier to look at.

Two seasonal Eevee figures on either side of a Pikachu figure

Choose a focal point

Pick one spot to draw the eye first. Leave some open space around it and group smaller pieces to either side so they do not compete for attention.

In the figure group above, the middle piece has the largest base and the most scene detail. Put a quieter pose beside a piece like that. If two pieces both need room around them, try placing them in separate groups.

Vary the height and leave clearance

Put taller pieces toward the back where they can still be seen. Check that anything raised sits on a stable surface, and leave enough room to lift a piece out without disturbing its neighbors.

Measure the usable depth, including the space taken up by a cabinet door. Test the footprint of each base and check for details that extend beyond it, such as a tail or a prop. Leave enough room to take a piece out for dusting.

Three layouts for small spaces

Pick the layout closest to the space you already have. The diagrams show where to leave gaps and how to stagger heights.

Desk cornerKeep a clear working area. Place one taller piece against the wall and two lower pieces beside it. Check that a notebook or laptop still opens without touching the display.
Narrow bookcaseUse one small group in each compartment. Turn a scene slightly if a side prop is hidden, and bring small figures toward the front where the shelf above casts less shadow.
Single cabinet shelfUse the back row for taller shapes. Leave a gap in the front row wide enough to lift a figure by its base, and check the view with the door closed.

Look from across the room

Take a few steps back and check what you notice first. If the shelf feels crowded, move one group out and see how the composition changes. Rotate groups when you want to refresh the view.

Take a reference photo from your usual viewing angle. If you try a different arrangement, compare the two photos and note which base positions made the smaller figures easier to see.