How to Hang a Gallery Wall on a Budget
Quick answer
To hang a gallery wall: collect frames in one or two finishes, plan the layout on the floor, make paper templates and tape them to the wall, then hang from the center out. Keep about 2 to 3 inches between frames, and center the whole group about 57 to 60 inches from the floor.
A gallery wall adds personality to a room and fills a large empty wall for very little money. The key is a plan, so the finished wall looks collected instead of random.
Gather your frames and art
- Thrift stores and yard sales are great for frames. Paint mismatched frames one color for a unified look.
- Mix family photos, simple prints, children’s art, postcards and small mirrors.
- Use mats to make small pictures look bigger and more polished.
Choose a layout
- Grid: same-size frames in even rows. Clean and modern.
- Salon style: different sizes grouped tightly. Relaxed and collected.
- Along a line: frames line up along one invisible horizontal line. Great above a sofa.
The paper template method
- Trace each frame on kraft paper and cut it out.
- Mark where the nail goes on each paper template.
- Tape the templates to the wall and adjust until you like the layout.
- Hammer the nails right through the paper marks, then tear off the paper and hang the frames.
Spacing rules
- Keep 2 to 3 inches between frames for a tight, unified look.
- Center the group about 57 to 60 inches from the floor, at eye level.
- Above a sofa or console, leave about 8 to 10 inches between the furniture and the lowest frame.
Simple budget
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Thrifted frames (6 – 10) | $20 – $60 |
| Spray paint for frames | $8 – $15 |
| Prints (printed at home or a photo store) | $10 – $40 |
| Picture hanging kit | $10 – $20 |
Want more ways to make a room look high-end? See high-end looks for less.
