In this post I’ll share with you some tips and tricks for planning a gallery wall. I’ll also share how I created mine! These hacks will help any level of DIY-er create a beautiful wall that can transform any space!
This was one of the easiest DIYs I’ve tackled! It requires almost no tools, electrical wiring, and can be done in any space- even a rental! It completely transformed our hallway and took no time at all!
Easy. Fast. Budget-friendly.
I also want to add that you can display whatever you’d like. I chose family photos but you can display art, prints, photos, anything! I also added some wall decor.
This project can be customized to fit any style- not just farmhouse. I stuck with a black and white theme but you can use more modern fixtures and decor to make the design more modern. You can also use brightly colors frames, photos, and decor to make the space bright and colorful.
It really is one of those projects that can fit any home!
Start by coming up with a basic design idea
I knew I wanted a gallery wall and I wanted light fixtures. I had a general idea of what I wanted based on inspiration from Instagram. The inspiration photo I found had more frames and more light fixtures.
I had the wall signs that are on either end that I wanted to tie into the design so I opted for less frames to balance it out.
I also originally planned on 3 sconces over the frames but felt that it didn’t balance the space well. After hanging up the frames, I decided on putting the sconces over the wall signs which worked out much better.
Want to save this tutorial for later? Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board!
Choosing the frames
At the time, I ordered my frames (size is 20×20 with a mat) from IKEA. Unfortunately, IKEA no longer has these exact frames available.
I did find this option on Amazon, they look identical and for a pack of 3, brings the price of each individual frame down to about the same price as the ones I purchased from IKEA minus the shipping (for prime members) so that’s a win!!
Regardless of the frame you buy, make note of what size you’ll need to have your prints or photos printed at. I chose to display family photos and got them printed at Walmart.
You can get as fancy as you want with this! I liked the black and white but here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Paint the mats
- Paint the frames
- Rub and buff the frames
- Mix and match personal photos with art prints
- All black and white pictures
- All color pictures
Hanging your frames
Hanging frames in a gallery wall doesn’t have to be complicated. To plan my space, I simply used the paper that came with the frame and hung each piece up on my wall with a small piece of painters tape.
I folded the paper in half so I knew where the half mark was for my nail. I measured how far down each frame was from the ceiling and then double checked with my level to ensure it was straight.
If you wanted to make it even easier on yourself, you could use a laser level like this one. I didn’t have one so I just used old school math and a regular level.
After living with the frames for awhile, and seeing that they never stayed straight, I picked up some of this tacky mounting putty and added a small piece to the bottom corners of each frame. My frames have stayed straight ever since!!
Decide on any additional art to your gallery wall
As mentioned, I had a wall sign that I had purchase from Hobby Lobby at the time. While I searched and it doesn’t look like they sell it anymore, I did find some similar ones like this one on Amazon.
You can add whatever wall art you’d like, if you choose to, or you can simply exclude wall art or add another row of photo frames.
The wall sconces + magic light trick
Let me start out by saying I did not hardwire these sconces nor did I invent this magic light trick. This trick is from Nesting With Grace!
I found this pack of wall sconces from Amazon, which I thought was an amazing deal for a pack of 3!
Then, I purchased these puck lights and super glued them into the sconces with Rapid Fuse super glue.
The lights can be turned on manually by pushing on them or by using the remote. I can still change the batteries in them, they simply twist off. The bottom of the light stays in the sconce (it’s super glued) and the rest of the light pops off. The batteries are changed and then you just twist it back on.
To install these, I simply used screws to attach the base plate of the sconces to the wall. I tucked the wires in and then fit the sconces over the plate. You’ll secure the sconce over the base plate with the screws provided. Super easy!
I’ve had them for over a year and still love them. If you change your mind or need to move, you can simply take them down, patch the two small holes from where you screwed in the base plate, and you’ll be all set!
Easy and fast gallery wall for any space
I absolutely love my gallery wall and I love how easily it can be done! It’s a perfect quick DIY that can transform any wall or hallway in your home!
Here’s a look at the before and after:
And another look at just the hallway!
