Gallery Wall: How to Arrange It Without Ruining Your Wall with Nails
Practical steps to create a balanced gallery wall, from floor planning to final hanging.
Plan on the Floor First
Before you pick up a hammer, arrange the frames on the floor in front of the wall and try several layouts. Photograph each arrangement with your phone—the image reveals imbalances your eye misses in the moment.
Start with the largest piece near the center, then distribute smaller pieces around it, leaving an even gap of 5 to 8 cm between each frame.
Center Height of the Artwork
The museum rule: center the artwork at 145 – 150 cm from the floor. Above a sofa or console, place the bottom edge 20 – 25 cm above the back of the piece so the art feels connected to it rather than floating alone.
Cut Paper, Then Hang
Cut paper to the size of each frame and attach it to the wall with painter's tape. Move around the room and view the arrangement from different angles before drilling. Once you're settled on the layout, drill through the paper directly at the hook position.
- Use a small spirit level or a level app on your phone
- For drywall, use butterfly anchors
- Attach adhesive pads behind the bottom of each frame to prevent tilting