My DIY Gallery Wall

My first project of the new year was the creation of a gallery wall in my upstairs hallway. Inspired by the simplicity of minimalist art, I embarked on a creative process that involved experimenting with watercolors, customizing frames, and strategically arranging each piece to achieve a harmonious look.

The Inspiration

Minimalist art has always captivated me with its clean lines, muted colors, and a focus on simplicity. I envisioned a gallery wall that would embody this aesthetic, using large mats to enhance the impact of each piece.

Artwork + Frames

To bring my vision to life, I began experimenting with watercolors, exploring different techniques until I achieved a set of five pieces that resonated with the soft, minimalist tone I set out to achieve. With my watercolor pieces ready, the next step was finding the perfect frames in the right size to complement the artwork. After a little searching, I stumbled upon affordable light wood frames from Amazon that came in a pack of 6. Before purchasing, I double checked that the size would be a good scale for my wall by physically taping it out. This was a little bit of a tedious process, but I didn’t want to have to deal with any potential returns. The size I ultimately landed on was 16″x20″.

Custom Matboard

Determined to elevate the look further, I opted to purchase un-cut matboard, also from Amazon. This allowed me to cut the artwork opening to exact specifications to achieve a customized, high-end look that perfectly framed each piece. Armed with a ruler and a heavy-duty box cutter, I carefully measured and cut all 5 pieces of matboard. The customized matboard became an integral part of the overall composition.

Hanging the Artwork

The final success of any gallery wall lies in the placement of each piece. Following the rule of thumb, I hung each frame centered at eye-level height, approximately 60 inches from the floor. This not only created visual balance but also made the gallery wall accessible and inviting to anyone walking through the hallway. The final result not only transformed a once plain space but also brought a sense of artistic fulfillment to my home.

The Finishing Touch

Left with one extra frame from the set of six, I decided to get creative with the remaining watercolor samples. Instead of letting them go to waste, I cut them into 3-inch squares and arranged them in a pattern. This final piece became the unexpected star, finding a place in my home office.