Answering Reader Questions: How to Create a Gallery Wall, What I Like, Where to Start, and Other Tips

One recent question from a reader was how to create a gallery wall. I am posting on this one because it can be useful to a lot of readers, but also, because I have very clear thoughts about what I like and don't like. Your ideas may be totally different, and that's fine - please do what you like! - but I'm going to tell you what I like and don't like.
I like symmetry:

I also prefer not too much color:


Unless there is not a lot else going on in the room, in which case I do like some color (and even some asymmetry), like in this one:

And the color in this one:

Here are the two most recent ones I've done - the first in my house (black and white floral prints ordered from Etsy) and the second in my Dad's house (canvases):

This next one feels really young, and I think I'd love it for a college dorm or first apartment, but without the photo of Kate Moss smoking - I hate that photo. But I don't think I'd use an arrangement like this in my home:

These are both asymmetrical and the images vary a lot, but for some reason I like them:


 Here are some other pretty popular ones that I like:



I also like the shelves here:















So I know this was really confusing because there are so many ways to go, so let me sum up how I think you should start. First, make some decisions:
Decide if you like symmetry or not. Decide if you like all the same color frames or not. Do you want a lot of color, or more uniform?
Once you've made these decisions, my only other tip is to hang the frames equal distances from each other.  The general rule is 2 times the width of the frame. So, if your frames are all 2 inches, hang everything 4 inches from each other.
Finally, do yourself a favor and  search for "gallery wall layout" on Pinterest or Google. There are so many thousands to choose from that it doesn't make sense for me to post them all. It's better for you to find one you like and that will fit on your wall. Instead of recreating the wheel, I'd use one of the many templates available:
Images
I hope this helps. As always, I'm a big believer in two things: doing what you like without regard to rules, and if you find one you love, copy it!
___________________________
This is my favorite sale today, because it has the scarf I cut and used as art in Ellie's room. I SO want to do another one!

Follow on Pinterest:
View My Hand Picked Daily Deals:
Subscribe by Email: Enter your email address: