So I recently had two different clients who needed help filling up a large blank wall. While there are lots of ideas for such a space, in both cases I suggested different forms of a Gallery Wall. Now, this idea has been around for awhile and all you need to do is type in the very words into Pinterest or Google and you will get millions of photos.
But I thought today I would share some basic tips on a Gallery Wall and even some ideas to jazz it up from the standard family photos.
First step: You got to find your layout.
On trick to remember, you want to keep as equal of spacing as possible between your frames. I also suggest only spacing them 2-3″ apart.
If you really need step-by-step instructions, here are some actual diagrams (including what size frame to buy!). Just copy the photo and you are done!
P.S. I know a lot of people will tell you to cut out pieces of kraft paper and tack them up to the wall. You can certainly do that, but it seems like a lot of work to me. I simply lay out the pattern I want on the floor and then hang on the wall in the same pattern. Perfection not neccessary.
But if you are one of those perfectionists, check out this website to give you more details (kraft paper and all!):
Second Step: Choose Your Color Scheme
I’m a fan of the black frame with chunky white matte. This tried-and-true option is choosing all of the same colored frame. This shows a pretty gold palette that lets the bright colors of the artwork shine:
If you want a bit more eclectic look, feel free to mix up the frame finish, but you will want to be sure to keep some sort of color scheme to keep from going chaotic. Try no more than three different colors of frames:
Third Step: You can add in a few “non-picture” items.
I wouldn’t go too crazy with this one, but a couple of well placed items (1-3 items) can add a personal touch to the space:
I’m a fan of the black and white family photos hanging in the Gallery Wall. My husband jokes our house has become a shrine to our three kiddos (I can’t help it, they are like super cute), BUT I do like to switch it out a bit too.
For a recent client I gave her three alternative ideas that are all customized for them.
ONE. Frame a piece of sheet music. Choose your first dance song, the song you first learned to play on the piano, or a favorite childhood lullaby.
TWO. Frame a vintage looking map of a significant place. Try your hometown, your college town, heck-your favorite vacation spot. Make it personal.
THREE. Anchor your gallery wall with a piece of furniture. A standard console table or bench adds extra seating and storage. But for this couple, her dad is a pastor and she grew up in the church, so I suggested a pew bench for their home. A piece of furniture will help anchor a wall so it doesn’t just “float”.
If you want to see more of their farmhouse style room, check it out HERE!
Fourth Step: Don’t spend a fortune.
So with all of those frames to fill up….where do you go? I’m a big fan of the free printable!
So to get you started, from Little Gold Pixel:
Have fun with it! The beauty of a Gallery Wall is the pictures can constantly be switched around for a whole new look. But minimal labor.
Ahhh, my kind of design….
Happy Hanging!
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