If you’re hunting for gallery wall ideas, you’ve come to the right place. I know it can feel overwhelming, staring at blank walls and wondering what on earth to hang, but trust me—it’s not as hard as it looks. In fact, you probably have more gallery wall material lying around your house than you realize. Let’s take a deep dive into some gallery wall inspiration that will have you saying, “Why didn’t I think of that?”
In this post, you’ll see how easy it can be to design a gallery wall using items you already have or making a small investment in unconventional items. I’ll share some of my favorite gallery wall ideas to inspire you and spark your creativity, helping you create a unique gallery wall that reflects your style.
Gallery Wall Ideas Line-up
#1. Empty Frames
Yes, you heard me—empty frames. No glass, no backing, just the frame itself. Sounds crazy, but empty frames are one of my favorite ways to add a bit of drama to a wall. You can usually find them at thrift stores for next to nothing, or if you’re lucky, on clearance at craft stores. Bigger frames? Even better. If you happen to find a frame with questionable art inside (you know the ones), ditch the print and keep the frame.
Ornate frames can make simple things look special, like the one photo you actually like from your cousin Vinny’s wedding. And chunky, vintage frames? They are gorgeous arranged in different sizes inside of one another for a very dimensional look.
#2. Vintage Prints
You can’t go wrong with vintage prints—they bring instant character. Thrift stores are my go-to here. And who knows, you might stumble upon something already framed and ready to go. It’s like a treasure hunt, but with better odds and no scary pitch to investors.
#3. Wallpaper and Scrapbook Paper
Got leftover wallpaper? It doesn’t have to mold in the garage or attic. I once framed leftover wallpaper from a bathroom project, and BOOM! (As Paw Paw Edgar likes to say). Instant art. Scrapbook paper works just as well, and it’s a fun, inexpensive way to add some personality to your gallery wall. You’ll thank me later when you see how good it looks. (Wallpaper in the center and scrapbook paper on the left and right).
#4. Digital Art
Digital prints are a lifesaver when it comes to gallery wall ideas. You can find endless of online, print it in whatever size you need, and swap it out when the mood strikes. Low commitment, high reward. It’s like the fast food of the art world—but classier.
#5. Letters and Book Pages
This one’s for my fellow sentimental types. If you’ve got a love letter from your grandparents or a page from your favorite book, frame it up! And don’t worry about wrecking the original—copies work just fine. If you’re willing to get crafty, buy a secondhand copy of the book and frame a few different pages for a cohesive, meaningful display.
#6. Mirrors
Mirrors in a gallery wall? Absolutely. They bounce light around the room and add dimension. Whether you’re going for a formal or casual look, mirrors fit in anywhere. And if you want to take it up a notch, try creating a gallery wall entirely out of mirrors. I’m not saying you’ll accidentally fall in love with your reflection every time you pass by, but… you might.
#7. Fabric and Lace
You’ve probably got some fabric or lace stashed somewhere. I’m here to tell you—it can absolutely be framed and it is a great gallery wall idea. Not only does it add texture, but it also brings a softness that traditional art can’t. If you’ve been holding on to a scrap of fabric from grandma’s old quilt, this is the moment to finally do something with it. Or maybe you’ve been hoarding some dreamy textiles, lovingly display them in a frame – you won’t regret it.
#8. Plates and Trays
I’m guilty of collecting many, many things, plates and trays being one of them, but instead of letting them gather dust in a cabinet, why not hang them up? That wedding china you’ve never used? It’s time for its debut. It’s a gallery wall idea that’ll make your guests stop and stare and bring fond memories out of the dark.
#9. Vases and Flower Pots
Now, if you’re feeling adventurous, let’s talk about non-framed items. Ever thought of hanging a vase or flower pot? I’m serious. If it’s got a hole in the bottom, you can probably rig it up to hang on your wall. I once turned a flower pot into a gallery wall feature by looping wire through the drain hole. It’s quirky, it works—and it’s a great conversation starter.
Gallery walls are all about personality, so don’t limit yourself to what traditionally goes on the wall. Odds are, you already have everything you need—just look around! And if anyone asks where you got your ideas, you can just tell them you’ve always been this clever.
Now that you have gathered your gallery wall ideas and items, but aren’t sure just how to tackle getting them arranged on the wall? Check out this post that will guide you through the process in 5 quick and easy steps.
If you’ve created your own gallery wall, share it with us in the comments below! Need more gallery wall ideas? Sign up for my newsletter for more inspiration.
