There’s something magical about a gallery wall. It’s not just décor—it’s a feeling. A showcase of moments, memories, and art that turns a blank wall into a thoughtful display. Whether it’s a small nook by the stairs or a main wall in your living room, your gallery wall should feel like a warm invitation and is often a conversation starter.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a gallery wall that feels personal and charming.
Step 1: Soak Up Some Inspiration
Before you grab your hammer, cozy up with a cup of something warm and start dreaming.
- Browse décor magazines, Pinterest, and Instagram
- Notice which layouts catch your eye – symmetrical, organic clusters, or both
- Pay attention to the spacing between frames and the overall shape of the arrangements
- Save the examples that resonate with your style to use as a reference later
Pay attention to what draws you in. Is it the perfectly imperfect charm of an eclectic mix? The balance of a symmetrical grid? A bold pop of color in an otherwise neutral space? Save anything that makes your heart do a little happy dance. This is where your story starts.
Beach theme: Patina Hanging Tuna, Coral Prints, Wooden Framed Mirror
Step 2: Gather Your Art & Materials
Here’s where you begin curating your wall. Choose pieces that mean something—whether it’s your kid’s crayon masterpiece, a vintage botanical print, or that photo from your last mountain getaway.
You’ll need:
- A mix of artwork, photos, or even textile pieces
- Frames (matching if you love cohesion, or mix-and-match for that artful charm)
- Painter’s tape, pencil, paper
- Hammer and nails, or picture hanging strips (for renters or commitment-phobes)
- A level (because crooked frames don’t add charm—just chaos)
Pro tip: Texture is your friend. Try mixing canvas, wood, or metal for that layered, lived-in look.
Step 3: Select a Theme or Connecting Element
While gallery walls should feel personal, a subtle theme brings it all together, kind of like your favorite throw that ties the whole room together.
Some ideas:
- Color palette: Neutrals with hints of forest green, terracotta, or charcoal?
- Subject matter: nature, a wall of family moments, or your favorite art.
- Frame styles: Wood tones, matte black, or brass for that touch of elegance.
- Spacing: Keeping it consistent (2-3 inches is the sweet spot) gives the whole thing a polished feel, even if the contents vary wildly.
Step 4: Lay It All Out
Trust us—planning now means fewer nail holes later (and less drywall patching down the road).
- Clear a floor space the same size as your intended gallery wall area
- Arrange and rearrange your pieces until you find a composition you love
- Take a photo of your final layout for reference
- Consider starting with a focal point (usually your largest piece) and building around it
- Step back frequently to assess the overall balance and flow
Optional but fun: Trace your frames onto kraft paper and tape them to the wall. It’s like a dress rehearsal before opening night.
Step 5: Hang With Heart (and a Level)
Now for the exciting part— hanging your gallery. The goal? A wall that feels balanced, cozy, and totally you.
- Begin with your anchor piece, usually the biggest or boldest.
- Work outward, keeping your spacing even and your level handy.
- Don’t rush. Step back often. Breathe. Sip some tea. Adjust as needed.
- Invite a friend over for an extra pair of hands and some moral support.
Botanical theme: Framed Botanical Prints, Framed Floral Print, Round Wall Display
Step 6: The Finishing Touches
- Once everything’s up, do a little polish:
- Clean off fingerprints and dust.
- Adjust frames that shifted a smidge.
- Consider adding dimensional pieces like a tiny shelf with a ceramic bud vase, a hanging planter, or a soft sconce for a glow that feels like golden hour.
When to Break the Rules
We’re fans of beautiful “imperfections.” Sometimes, the most heartwarming gallery walls come from tossing the rulebook.
- Mix in mirrors, plates, or that framed handwritten recipe from your grandma.
- Let your layout be a little off-kilter if it feels right.
- Don’t overthink it—if something brings you joy, it belongs.
Your Home, Your Story
The most beautiful gallery walls aren’t built in one day; they evolve over time. Start with what you love, and let it grow with you. Add to it when you find that perfect treasure or finally print those travel photos.
And when someone walks into your space and says, “This wall feels like you,” you’ll know you got it just right.
Have you tried creating a gallery wall before? If so, what theme did you choose for that space? Tag us or send us a photo, we’d love to see it!
