Hey friend,

Do your walls make you smile? If you’re anything like me, COVID has seen you taking on some home improvement projects. If you’ve noticed your walls asking for a little TLC, let me suggest creating (drumroll please)... a gallery wall!

Need help with framing and hanging? Ask me about custom framing options. Images from one of my mini portrait session

My background in social work has taught me how crucial it is for us (and our children) to be surrounded by symbols of family, love, and belonging, especially in chaotic times. Whether we’re facing pandemics or homework and hectic schedules, having visual reminders of those we love can calm and recenter us.

This is why I love gallery walls: they allow you to display what matters most to you- from pictures of family to art to special mementos- in a way that matches your taste and aesthetic. Gallery walls are fun, but it can be hard to know where to start when creating your own. Luckily for you, I’ve simplified the process.

Here are 4 tips anyone can use to assemble a gorgeous gallery wall.

Evaluate your space. Do you have a large, open wall, or are you trying to fill a smaller space, like between windows or in a hallway? Do you want a polished, sleek look? If so, consider hanging 3-12 pieces of the same size in a column or grid. Going for a more eclectic vibe? Mix and match frames and sizes for a more artistic approach. Consider if you want to fill your wall from floor to ceiling, or if you’d prefer something more minimalistic.
Get inspired. I have a Pinterest board dedicated to gallery walls that you can check out to get your wheels turning- click here to take a peek. Look for arrangements on walls similar to the spaces you’d like to fill.

3. Dry run. Before you start pounding nails into the wall, cut sheets of newsprint or butcher paper the same size as the photos or art you plan to hang. Tape them to your wall and see what arrangements call to you. Consider leaving them up a while to make sure you like the layout before you commit.

4. Jump in! Once you’ve found that perfect arrangement, it’s time to hang your photos and art. At this stage, it’s helpful to bring in a second pair of eyes (and hands) to help you line everything up. It’s also a good idea to remove only one piece of butcher paper at a time, so you can see where your frame will be in relation to the others you’re about to hang. Tip: Rather than aiming for perfect alignment and spacing between each frame, just go with what looks good. No one will know if you’re off-center by three centimeters!

And that’s it! Creating a gallery wall doesn’t have to be stressful. Have confidence in your taste, choose art and photos that make you happy, and then go for it! Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Happy decorating,

Bobbi Jo