An easy, step-by-step guide for a gallery wall layout and tips to execute this to beautify your space.
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So I have a confession. Gallery walls have always intimidated me! If you read my post on how we did the picture ledge, you’ll have some inkling how daunting it can be to arrange photos on a wall. It can be so nerve-wracking knowing I’m going to be putting holes in my walls and I want to make sure I’m doing it right the first time around.
I bought all of the frames for this gallery wall from IKEA and they were all originally white. I sprayed painted them midnight blue and fell in love with the way they looked with the matching colors and different styles. I planned out everything I did for this gallery wall and didn’t put a single extra hole in the wall than was necessary. I’ve got the layout for you as well as some tips on how to make sure you conquer this wall without any extra holes in your wall.
Tools & Materials:
- Picture Frames:
- (2) – 16×20
- (1) – 11×14
- (2) – 8×10
- (1) – 5×7
- (2) – 4×6
- Art – that’s approx. 11×14
- Pencil
- Hammer
- Nails
- Tape measure
- Level (optional)
Steps:
1. Get all of the picture frames together
I used several sizes of picture frames and also incorporated using mats in some of them as well. I like how the mats allow you to have the same size frame but the pictures feel more varied.
2. Plan the Gallery Wall on the floor
By laying everything out on the floor, it’s easier to get an idea of what things will look like on the wall and what the total height of the gallery will look like. That way, it’s also easier to decide on where to hang your highest frame.
3. Make sure the frames are all evenly spaced
I spaced the frames about 2 inches apart, but did take some liberties to make sure the frames lined up on both the top and the bottom of the gallery.
4. Account for the hanging hardware
If the hanging hardware is 3 inches from the top of the frame, I marked where I want the top of the frame to be and where the nail hole will need to go in order to properly place the frame. It’s a small chore in the process, but it makes a world of difference in lining up the final product.
5. Hang and admire your Gallery Wall
Once I knew where the holes would go, I started from the top hanging frames on the wall. I took it frame by frame, measuring and hanging the frames until I got to the final results.
I love how this gallery wall came out! With the accents of desert art and the letter board, this wall perfectly fits in with our eclectic space. The blend of the wood tones is like eye candy and I’m glad to have more pictures and art in our space. I don’t know how many more gallery walls are in our future, but I’m more confident that I’ll be able to design one that’s gorgeous and personal.
Do you see laying out this gallery wall for your space in your future? If you do get this one hung up be sure to tag or DM me on Instagram or Pinterest @MelanatedMakerDIY
If you want more behind the scenes footage of this or any of the other projects, check out my Instagram @MelanatedMakerDIY