How to Create a Beautiful Gallery Wall
A step by step guide to creating a gallery wall…
well-designed gallery wall has the power to transform any space into a visually stunning focal point. It is an opportunity to showcase your personal style, display cherished artwork, family photos, and can transform any blank wall! In our guide, we will walk you through the process of creating a beautiful gallery wall that will bring character to any space.
I rounded up some of my favorite art prints from Juniper Print Shop, Collection Prints, and a sweet Etsy Shop with some of my favorite sketches from NelsonArtDesignCo. I love supporting small businesses that are creating beautiful work! My goal is to help you find ways to bring beautiful artwork into your home without breaking the bank! These are three of my favorite spots to shop from! You can also download the images and print on your own for a more affordable option- I love this feature that all three of these shops offer.
Click the link below to shop all of these looks!
Abstract Artwork: Click to shop
Collection Print: Click to shop
Collection Print: Click to shop
Etsy Shop: click to shop
Step 1: Gather Inspiration and define your style before taking on your gallery wall project! In my gallery wall guide I will walk you through multiple templates to help you create a gallery wall for any space! I include 5 different templates that can be customized for your space. We will include a modern/clean look that can cover a large wall, an entryway option with an affordable wall light, a simple look that will add warmth to any room, and a more fun eclectic style! Take the time to identify your personal style preferences—whether it's a minimalist, eclectic, or cohesive look—so you can curate a collection of artwork that resonates with you and creates a harmonious display. Check out these two gallery walls in my own home! A little secret- these exact templates will be included in the e-book!
gallery wall with a unique collection of photo frames
a modern gallery wall that uses sleek photo frames to create a beautiful look!
Step 2: Next up! Where should you put the gallery wall? Consider walls that are visible upon entering the room, above a sofa or console table, or any area that could benefit from an eye-catching focal point. I will provide tips on how to select the best place for a gallery wall! Keep in mind the available wall space, as it will determine the size and number of pieces you can incorporate into the arrangement.
Step 3: Select a Color Palette to achieve a cohesive gallery wall! I suggest choosing a color palette that complements your existing decor. For example, is your space more minimal- you may opt for simple black frames. I think this type of look is perfect for a hallway or entryway! Or do you have a large blank wall that could use some character? You may choose to put several different style frames together to create a a unique look! I went with this look for my office, and wanted something unique to really stand out! Additionally, consider incorporating metallic accents or natural elements like wood for added visual interest.
Step 4: This is the fun part! Let your personal style shine through! Curate Your Artwork Collection Now comes the exciting part—selecting the artwork for your gallery wall. Mix and match various types of artwork, including paintings, photographs, prints, sketches, and photos of the ones you love! I included several of my favorite sketches and artwork pieces for you to shop from! Aim for a diverse range of sizes, shapes, and textures to create visual intrigue. Don't be afraid to mix different art styles, but ensure there is a unifying element such as a common color or theme to tie everything together. Again, we will dive in to this in our e-book!
Step 5: Plan the Layout Before hanging any artwork, lay out your collection on the floor or a large table to experiment with different arrangements. Take into account the size, shape, and color of each piece to create a visually balanced composition. Consider using templates or painter's tape to mark the positions of the artwork on the wall, allowing you to visualize the final look without the commitment of hammering nails. Check out this Instagram reel that helps describe how to hang your photo frames! I love using blue painters tape to get the look of the frames, while also getting a visual of what the frames will look like!
Step 6: Create a Cohesive Display When it's time to hang the artwork, start with the center point of your gallery wall and work your way outward. Hanging the largest or most eye-catching piece in the center serves as an anchor for the entire arrangement. You can refer to my eclectic collage that I used in my office! I started by placing a large frame right in the center to draw the eye in! Maintain consistent spacing between the pieces, ensuring they are visually connected and not too cluttered or sparse. Utilize a level and measuring tape to maintain precision throughout the process.
Step 7: Add Complementary Elements To elevate your gallery wall further, consider incorporating additional design elements. Install accent lighting to highlight certain pieces or create a cozy ambiance. Check out this Instagram reel on how I elevated my gallery wall using battery powered lights! It truly gives it a designer look for less! Plus there is no hardwiring needed and installation is SO easy.
