Looking for ideas on how to create your own Chic Gallery Wall with Thrifted Finds? This post is a step-by-step guide plus gorgeous inspiration just for you.
Creating a gallery wall is a fantastic way to add personality and style to your home. The best part? You don't need to break the bank to achieve a sophisticated and cohesive look. Thrift stores are treasure troves for unique and budget-friendly art pieces. Here's how you can create an eye-catching gallery wall with thrifted finds.
Related Reading: Take a look at my living room thrifted gallery wall
Step 1: Define Your Style and Color Palette
Before you start hunting for thrifted treasures, it’s important to have a clear vision of your desired aesthetic. Are you drawn to minimalist black-and-white photography, vintage botanical prints, or eclectic and colorful artwork? Choose a color palette that complements your existing decor. Having a cohesive theme or color scheme will help your gallery wall look intentional and stylish.
Step 2: Hunt for Thrifted Treasures
Visit local thrift stores, flea markets, and antique shops to find unique pieces. Here’s what to look for:
- Frames: Don't worry if the art itself doesn't appeal to you; the frame might be perfect.
- Artwork: Keep an eye out for paintings, prints, photographs, and even textiles.
- Interesting Objects: Plates, mirrors, and sculptural items can add dimension and interest.
Step 3: Mix and Match Frames
One of the joys of thrifting is the variety of frames you can find. Embrace the diversity but maintain some consistency to avoid a chaotic look.
You can:
- Paint frames in coordinating colors.
- Choose frames of the same material (e.g., all wood or all metal).
- Ensure all frames have a similar finish (e.g., all matte or all glossy).
Step 4: Curate Your Collection
Before you hang you might want to lay out your finds on the floor to start curating your gallery wall. Play around with the arrangement until you find a layout you love.
Consider:
- Balance: Distribute colors, sizes, and types of art evenly across the wall.
- Variety: Mix different shapes, sizes, and types of art to keep the eye moving.
- Focal Point: Choose one piece to be the focal point and build around it.
Step 5: Plan Your Layout
Once you're satisfied with your arrangement on the floor, take measurements and create a guide for hanging.
A few things that might help:
- Use painter's tape to outline the frames on the wall.
- Cut out paper templates in the size of your frames and tape them to the wall.
- Use a measuring tape and level to ensure even spacing and alignment.
Step 6: Hang Your Gallery Wall
Start with the central piece and work outward. Use picture-hanging hardware appropriate for your wall type (drywall, plaster, etc.). Ensure each piece is securely fastened. Step back frequently to check your progress and adjust as needed.
Step 7: Add Finishing Touches
To make your gallery wall truly chic, consider adding:
- Lighting: Picture lights or strategically placed lamps can highlight your artwork.
- Decorative Elements: Small shelves or hooks can display three-dimensional items like vases or plants.
Tips for Gallery Wall Thrifting Success:
- Visit Regularly: Thrift store inventory changes frequently.
- Think Creatively: An old book might have pages you can frame, or a piece of fabric can become art.
- Don't Rush: Building a gallery wall with thrifted finds is a process.
p.s. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I'll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I am so grateful for your support.
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23 Absolutely Stunning Thrifted Gallery Wall Ideas You Will Want To Copy
01 | Hang a collection of thrifted / collected mirrors to make a room feel bigger
Get the look:
02 | Hang a photo ledge in an empty corner and fill it with floral thrifted art
Get the look:
03 | Paint a focal point wall black and fill it with thrifted finds
Get this look:
04 | Opt for a moody theme with florals, landscapes and gold frames
Get this look:
05 | Double gallery walls
You don’t have to limit yourself to one wall, why not try two.
06 | Take a small empty fall and fill it with your thrifted treasures
07 | Hang frames very closely, don’t be afraid to layer for an impact
Get this look:
08 | Create a small grouping in the bath above your towel hangers
Get the look:
09 | Feminine art portrait art gallery
10 | Hang shelves instead of art and display your pieces
11 | Mix mirrors & artwork
12 | Hang your thrifted collection on the wall over the bathtub
Get the look:
13 | Hang a collection of feminine sketches in the powder room
14 | Surround your tv with a gallery wall by adding a tv frame
Get the look:
15 | Vintage painting and gold frame whimsical wall gallery
16 | Modern abstract art gallery collection
17 | Eclectic pink room collected art gallery
18 | Cottage core gallery wall with painted pastel frames
19 | Fill the entire wall with art
20 | Modern mirror with modern art
21 | Hang a Summer straw hat to complete the look
22 | Black and white photo collection
23 | A beautiful wall full of landscape paintings
Real Homes Image credit: Anne Nyblaeus
I love the idea of even collecting paintings from all of your travels and putting them on your living room wall for a great memory wall.
Creating a gallery wall with thrifted finds is an affordable way to personalize your space and showcase your unique style. By mixing and matching frames, curating a cohesive collection, and thoughtfully arranging your pieces, you can transform thrifted art into a chic focal point for your home. Happy thrifting!
Related Reading: The best thrift stores for home decor in Houston, Tx.
