Creating a gallery wall out of thrifted frames is one of the most effortless, inexpensive ways to provide any room with charm and personality and tell a story. Whether you are showcasing art, family photos, travel memories, or some quirky vintage finds, this DIY project is making a previously unloved wall into something of a curated masterpiece.
Stars: Thrifts frames?
Cheap: Thrift shops sell frames for less than a brand-new one.
One and Only: There are no ready-made, cheap frames; all frames tell a tale of their own.
Eco-Friendly: The act of reusing and upcycling is a great way to cut down on waste.
Mixing Everything: An array of shapes, sizes, and colors make for a rich display.
🛠️What You’ll Need:
A host of thrifted frames in assorted sizes and styles
Photos, prints, artworks, or DIY pieces for their interiors
Paper, painter’s tape, and a pencil for planning
The picture-hanging kit (hooks, nails, hammer, level)
Optional: Spray paint or chalk paint for a revamped look
Optional: Mats or backing boards for a clean presentation of your prints.
🎨 Step 1: Curate Your Content
Choose what you want to put on display: Family pictures, polaroids, or memories from a childhood Art prints, DIY drawings, or Etsy downloads Pressed blooms, vintage postcards, or abstract art Quotes, typography, or travel maps Differentiate personal things from aesthetic ones.
🖌️ Step 2: The Frame Makeover (Optional but Fun)
Want to maintain a particular style? Overhaul your thrift-shop frames: Lightly sand if needed. Spray paint in matte black, gold, white, or with some palette to fit your decor. Leave some untouched for that rustic, eclectic look.
📐 Step 3: Choose the Layout (Without Hammering Yet!)
Trace each frame onto the kraft paper or newspaper and cut out these shapes. Tape them on your wall with painter’s tape, moving them around until you’re content with the layout. Keep a close eye on spacing (roughly 1.5-3 inches between frames is perfect). Here are some layout themes worth trying out: Grid: Clean-in-symmetrical Organic Cluster: Mixed sizes, more playful Linear: All frames aligned by top or center
🔨 Step 4: Hang Like a Pro
Start with your center or anchor piece and work outward. Always use a level and measuring tape to ensure your frames are aligned. If they are light, adhesive hooks or Command strips will work great. For heavy frames, use nails or wall anchors.
💡 Pro Tips:
Vary texture and shape: A mix of rectangular, square, oval, and circular frames will work wonders. Build depth: A small wall shelf holds mini plants, trinkets, or candles. Use mats: This elevates art, even if it’s small, making it feel important and polished. Include mirrors or empty frames: Adds sparkle and breathing space.
🛋️ Where to Hang Your Gallery Wall
Above a couch, bed, or an entryway console
On the wall next to the staircase.
In a hallway, home office, or reading nook.
Come around the TV for a blended media wall look.
✨ Final Touch:
Your gallery wall should feel collected, not perfect. It mirrors you, your story, your aesthetic. Continue to let it evolve. As the seasons change, add some art or new finds. Mix: that’s where the magic is.
Are you ready to tackle that blank wall? Grab those thrifted gems, have a personal touch, and start working some magic-framing one wall at a time?