Creating a Thrifted Gallery Wall for Family Photos on a Budget
Are you looking to create a beautiful family gallery wall without breaking the bank? Look no further! A thrifted gallery wall is a great way to display your favorite family photos while being mindful of your budget. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a unique and personalized gallery wall using free or inexpensive frames.
The Inspiration Behind the Project
As a self-proclaimed creative project enthusiast, I was drawn to the idea of a gallery wall, but I wanted to do it on a budget. I came across Reese’s tutorial on creating a thrifted gallery wall with secondhand frames, and it gave me the confidence to give it a try. I decided to go with a family travel theme, which tied in perfectly with a thrifted map canvas I had scored at Goodwill.
Materials Needed for a Thrifted Gallery Wall
To get started, you’ll need the following materials:
- Thrifted picture frames (number and design of your choice)
- Printed family photos (in sizes to fit your frames)
- Photo mats (optional)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil
- Drill or screwdriver
- Nails or picture hooks
- Anchors (optional, if pieces are heavy)
- Tape
- Razor blade (optional)
- Level
- Cardboard
- Screwdriver or strong tool to pry out frames
- Scissors
Part 1: Replacing Photos and Art with Printed Family Photos
Many thrift store frames come with photos or art already in them. To replace these with your own printed family photos, follow these steps:
- Lay the frame flat on the ground, front side facing down.
- Carefully open the back of the frame by cutting the brown paper with a razor blade or scissors.
- Lift any metal tabs around the edges of the frame that hold the back support behind the photo.
- Remove the existing art and recycle or repurpose it if possible.
- Measure the glass inside the frame and cut/crop your photo to fit inside the frame.
- Add a photo mat, if desired.
- Lay the photo mat and the photo on top of the pane of glass.
- If needed, add a piece of cardboard on top of the photo to help keep it tightly held up to the glass inside the frame.
- Replace the back of the frame or fold the metal tabs back over the photo/cardboard.
- Tape the brown paper back over the frame.
Part 2: Determining a Layout for the Gallery Wall
There are many ways to design a photo gallery, and you can look online for inspiration. I used a combination of thrifted frames and unique elements like dried flowers, antique plates, and a map on a canvas. Here’s a list of other ideas for thrifted items you can find for your gallery wall:
- Vintage windows
- Mirrors
- Clocks
- Other decorative objects
To plan your layout, follow these steps:
- Lay out all your frames with their photos inside on the floor.
- Arrange them as you’d like to see them on the wall.
- Draw the layout of your gallery wall on a piece of paper or tablet.
- Measure the space on the wall and the space that will be in between each of the frames.
Part 3: Hanging Your Framed Photos
The best way to hang each of your frames and items will depend on their unique size, shape, and weight. Here are some general tips:
- Start from the center and hang the larger pictures first.
- Measure the widths between frames as you hang to ensure they match your drawing.
- Use a level to ensure that each frame is straight.
- If you’re not sure, consult online resources for advice on hanging frames and other items in your specific setting.
Additional Tips for a Thrifted Gallery Wall
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind:
- Not everything has to match – a mix of frame styles can add character to your gallery wall.
- Consider painting frames that don’t fit your aesthetic perfectly.
- Start by hanging just one or two frames at a time and assess the overall vision.
- Be patient finding frames, and you’ll save tons of money.
- Incorporate some items that are different shapes and textures to add interest.
Benefits of a Thrifted Gallery Wall
Creating a thrifted gallery wall has many benefits:
- Saves money: by using secondhand frames, you can save a significant amount of money.
- Environmentally friendly: repurposing old frames reduces waste and is a sustainable way to decorate.
- Unique: a thrifted gallery wall is one-of-a-kind and reflects your personal style.
Conclusion
Creating a thrifted gallery wall for family photos is a fun and budget-friendly project that can add a personal touch to your home. By repurposing old frames and using printed family photos, you can create a unique and beautiful display that reflects your family’s personality. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different layouts and frame styles. With a little patience and imagination, you can create a stunning gallery wall that you’ll cherish for years to come.
About the Author
Jen Panaro is a self-proclaimed composting nerd and advocate for sustainable living for modern families. As the founder and editor-in-chief of Honestly Modern, she shares her passion for eco-friendly living and sustainable parenting. In her spare time, she’s a serial library book borrower, a messy gardener, and a mom of two boys who spends a lot of time in hockey rinks and on baseball fields. You can find more of her work at Raising Global Kidizens, an online space to help parents and caregivers raise the next generation of responsible global citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a thrifted gallery wall?
A thrifted gallery wall is a unique display of family photos or artwork using secondhand frames.
What materials are needed to create a thrifted gallery wall?
Thrifted picture frames, printed family photos, photo mats, measuring tape, pencil, drill, nails, and level.
How do I replace photos in thrifted frames?
Open the back of the frame, remove the existing art, measure the glass, cut your photo to fit, and reassemble the frame.
How do I plan the layout of my gallery wall?
Lay out frames on the floor, arrange them as desired, draw the layout on paper, and measure the space.
What is the best way to hang framed photos?
Start from the center, hang larger pictures first, measure widths between frames, and use a level to ensure straightness.
Can I mix different frame styles?
Yes, a mix of frame styles can add character to your gallery wall.
Is creating a thrifted gallery wall environmentally friendly?
Yes, repurposing old frames reduces waste and is a sustainable way to decorate.
How can I make my gallery wall unique?
Incorporate different shapes, textures, and items like vintage windows, mirrors, or decorative objects.
