Current mood: watching Haunted History and noshing on a bag of crunchy Cheetos. That about sums up a good Monday evening, don’t you think? We made the mistake of buying a box of assorted chips from Costco and I’ve been on a Cheeto binge for daaaaaaays (I’ve even had cheesy dreams, guys). Anyway, my love of ghost stories and cheesy snacks has little to do with this post, so, we move on (let me just go grab a refill on the Cheetos, though…..). I’ve recently pieced together a moody vintage-inspired focal piece in our living room and I’m going to share sources and tips on how to create a gallery wall with Art to Frames – let’s do this thang!
You Need a Gallery Wall – Let me Tell You Why
I used to think gallery walls were over-the-top – maybe meant for homes in the Hamptons but certainly not my simple, small-ish walls. I was wrong. Surrounding myself with beauty and sharing it with anyone I welcome into our home is what I do – and I’ve discovered that vintage artwork in ornate, antiqued gold frames cultivates the moody vibe I crave. So, whether your space is small or you catch yourself wondering what to place on that large, open void above the stairs – a gallery wall is a great option for any space.
How to Create a Gallery Wall in Your Home (enter Art to Frames)
First step, find your space. In my case, I had a couple botanical pieces on this wall – they were lovely – but I felt like it needed something *more*. I’ve been slowly adding moody, eclectic touches to the living room and knew a few aged gold frames would do the trick.
Once I’ve selected the location for my attack (design attack, that is), I begin to visualize placement and I do that in a number of ways. I have to be honest, I rarely measure. I have a good eye for space and am *usually* able to look at a wall and visualize what will/will not work. However – I’ve also used apps to help create mood boards (these are helpful if you’re trying to choose between works/frames/colors). Canva is my go-to app to help realize the vision in my head. I use Canva to upload photos of various pieces and color swatches – this makes it easier to see how a room will actually look. When I think about placement – I try to maintain balance. I find that an odd number of frames works well when using frames of different shapes/sizes (3, 5, 7, etc.). I enjoy selecting a variety of frames for a single gallery wall because I think it adds visual interest.
Selecting Frames
Now, on to the best part – selecting frames. I’ve used Art to Frames for several framing projects over the years and have always been particularly impressed with their quality and selection. There are frames for every style ranging from minimalist-lovers to the ornate-enthusiast. Another unique offering from Art to Frames is the ability to upload your portraits/artwork. Your prints will be printed and secured in the frame – all you have to do is unpack and hang. Of course, you can purchase framed on their own as well – but I love having the option to print and frame. If you’re looking to create a gallery wall but feel stuck about what might work (size and placement wise), Art to Frames has a section specifically dedicated to gallery wall framing that streamlines the process.
For this project, I used the following, custom frames and I love them!
Gold Foil on Pine Picture Frame
Let’s Talk About Vintage Reproduction Prints
“Where do you find so many vintage prints?!” …it’s a question I’m often asked and for good reason – vintage prints instantly create a timeworn, archaic atmosphere. I often mix my real vintage finds with my reproduction prints and no one would know (unless you have an eye for that sort of thing). So, where do I nab a majority of these prints (take a guess, I’ll wait…..)?
Did I hear Etsy?? Yes, indeed. There are several vintage reproduction print shops on Etsy and I’ve had excellent experiences with them all. In most cases, you purchase a digital file of the print – from there, you’re able to upload the file to your device of choice and print. I typically use Walgreens Photo and take advantage of their affordable poster prints with same day pick up. If there is a print that I know I’ll display for years, I love ordering from Heirloom Print Shop on Etsy. They mail prints on high quality paper with an options for premium, textured paper as well. If you do purchase digital file prints, remember that Art to Frames will also print and frame for you!
Clearly, Lucy McGillicuddy approves of this view and can you blame her? Art to Frames made it so easy to bring my vision to life. If you have questions about specific frames or the process in general, shoot me a message! I’m always happy to talk pretty frame goodness, friends. As always, peace, love, & light (after coffee)!
