Creating A Gallery Wall: Tips & Tricks

I just love the way a gallery wall can immediately add personality to a space.  Although I know from experience that creating one in your home can be a little intimidating.  Staring at a blank wall and a pile of frames on the floor can be a bit overwhelming.  I’ve learned a few things through trial and error that will hopefully help you to get over the fear of “messing up” and will give you the confidence to create a beautiful gallery wall in your home.  Truly – it’s not rocket science!

1.  Arrange your layout on the floor first.

I always do that first just to give myself an idea of how it will look on the wall.  There are a number of designers that recommend  making frame templates out of butcher paper or newspaper and arranging them on the wall before nailing anything.  However, I’ve personally found that the floor arranging method is much easier and less time consuming.  (I believe decorating should be fun i.e. it shouldn’t feel like a chore.)  This floor arranging method also gives me more freedom to make any tweaks along the way once I start putting things on the wall.

2.  Think outside the frame.

A gallery wall doesn’t have to be a wall of frames.  Don’t be afraid to mix in other elements.  Those unframed elements bring in an eclectic feel to a collection and are a great way to display special things like your favorite vintage handbags.

3.  Frames themselves are art.

Don’t think you have enough prints or pictures to create a gallery wall?  Empty frames are just as beautiful and can often be found for a steal at second hand stores and flea markets!

4.  Every wall is a winner.

A gallery wall can be created in any space or on any wall, powder rooms included.  There are no rules.

Whether you want to disguise an oddly placed thermostat or light switch……..

… or you want to make the big black entertainment thing a.k.a the television blend in nicely with your decor, a gallery wall will do the trick.

5. Command strips are your friend.

I have been known to suffer from fear-of-the-nail-hole-itis.  I always tell myself  – don’t worry it’s nothing a little spackle can’t fix, but I still can’t help but worry about making too many nail holes in the wall.  This is why command strips are my bff.  There’s no fear of making any mistakes, and I can easily rearrange my frames.

Do you have any tips or tricks you’d like to share on creating a gallery wall?  We’d love to hear them.  Share with us on Facebook or Instagram with hashtag #TheChic.

For more gallery wall inspiration follow our Pinterest board – Gallery Greatness!