Seven easy steps to creating the perfect gallery wall

A gallery wall is a collection of items hung on the wall “gallery” style.  This simply means that they are not all the same size, shape or color but are hung in an order that is similar to what you find in an art gallery; hence the term gallery wall.  But did you ever wonder how they get the pictures in just the right place or how they choose the subject matter?  There is no secret and there are no rules.  Whatever arrangement is pleasing to your eye will work. But there are some guidelines that might make the job a bit easier.

1. The first thing you must do is choose the items to be framed and/or hung.  For the best effect, these should be a mix and match collection of odd-numbered items such as prints, unframed items such as plaques, plates or small shelves and items of different sizes and shapes.
2. For a uniform look, the items should be framed and matted in the same color and frame.  For example, all black frames with white mats, or all gold-tone frames with beige mats, or colored mats in red metal frames.  You get the idea.
3. The next step is to measure the wall area to be used and cut out a template on a large piece of butcher paper that is the same size as the area of the wall you want to cover.
4. Place the butcher paper template on the floor and arrange your artwork in a manner that is pleasing to you.  For best results, keep the spacing between items even. Take a picture so you have a reference when it is time to hang the items.
5. Mark the paper with a spot where each nail is to be driven.  Tape the template to the wall and drive a nail through each of the spots marked.
6. Remove the template and begin hanging your items based on the photograph you took.
7. Stand back and admire your work.

A gallery wall works best in a long hallway, above a sofa or headboard or up a stairway wall.  In a playroom, it is fun to create a gallery wall of the kid’s artwork that can be changed out easily.  In the dining room, you can incorporate treasured plates with a grouping of botanicals or use generations of family photos up the stairway.  If you are just starting out, use inexpensive frames and “artwork” from calendars or art books.  Remember, there are no rules. If you like it…it works.