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If you've ever stared at your blank wall, unsure of how to transform it into a captivating gallery, you're not alone. The world of wall picture groupings can be a bit like a puzzle – exciting but challenging. Fear not, because we're here to be your artful guides, sharing some fantastic tips and tricks to help you create visually stunning displays that tell your unique story.

1. Find Your Starting Point

Every masterpiece begins with a blank canvas; in this case, your blank wall is your canvas. Before hammering nails or putting up adhesive strips, step back and envision what you want to achieve. Consider the room's ambiance and your personal style. Are you going for a symmetrical, balanced look, or do you want to embrace an eclectic, free-spirited vibe? Finding your starting point is like choosing the color palette for your artistic creation.

2. The Center of Attention

Just like the focal point in a painting, the center of your artwork should grab attention. We recommend following the "At 60 inches on Center" rule, where the midpoint of your art is always at 60 inches (or around eye level). This ensures that your artwork is easily viewable and creates a harmonious balance in the room. Remember that the one big no-no is diagonal hanging, except over stairways – we want to maintain that eye-level goal.

3. Cohesion is Key

Creating a sense of cohesion in your picture grouping is like harmonizing different notes in a symphony. To achieve this, consider using similar mats and frames. This creates an overall sense of consistency and ties the pieces together, even if they vary in color, size, or subject matter. Cohesion is your secret weapon to prevent chaos and maintain a unified look.

4. Embrace Variety

While cohesion is essential, don't be afraid to embrace variety. Think of it as adding different instruments to your musical composition. Grouping pieces with common themes, typography, oil paintings, black-and-white photography, or even mixed media can add depth and interest to your display. Variety keeps things exciting and allows you to showcase your diverse tastes.

5. Playing with Size and Scale

Creating visual interest in your gallery is all about playing with size and scale. Consider using even numbers of pieces for larger rooms to achieve symmetry and balance. In contrast, uneven numbers work wonders for anchoring furniture and offering a sense of volume without overcrowding. Just remember, when displaying larger pieces, keep them within 2-3 inches of each other for that polished, Pinterest-worthy look.

6. The Gallery Look

If you're aiming for a crisp, museum-like effect, envision an imaginary line at that magical 60 inches above the floor and center your art around it. For this look, sleek, black gallery frames with large white mats work wonders. It's clean, sophisticated, and timeless. When hanging multiple sizes together, always place the larger piece on the left side of the group – it's more aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

7. Crafting Collages and Stories

Sometimes, you want your wall to do more than display art – you want it to tell a story. Enter collage picture frames. These versatile frames are like chapters in your visual narrative. You can create mini self-contained gallery walls or incorporate them into larger groupings for added depth and storytelling. Don't limit yourself to family photos; art pieces, typography, and fine art photos can also become part of your narrative.

8. Beyond the Frame

Frames aren't just for holding art; they can be art themselves! With an array of frame options, you can express your unique style and add depth and texture to your walls. Gilded, painted, rustic barnwood, or sleek and modern – frames can make a statement all on their own, whether they're holding art or not.

Image Credit: Rebecca King Art

9. Think Outside the Frame

Sometimes, one image deserves to be larger than life. Don't be afraid to think outside the frame. If a single picture can't contain the beauty of your art, spread it across multiple frames. You can work with our team to print your images in portions or frame them separately. Hanging them in a row creates a captivating triptych, becoming a focal point and a conversation piece.

Image Credit: Real Simple

10. Embrace Eclectic Chaos

For those who love the bohemian feel or want to create an informal, inviting atmosphere, embracing eclectic chaos is the way to go. This technique involves mixing and matching frames, plaques, 3D art, mirrors, and whatever sparks your imagination. From large to small, squares to circles, sculptures to sconces – if you love it, display it. Soon, you'll have a wall that's impossible to look away from.

So there you have it, our artful guide to mastering the art of wall picture groupings. Whether you're creating a symphony of frames or an eclectic collage, remember that your wall is your canvas, and you are the artist. Have fun, get creative, and let your walls tell your unique story!

About The Author

Brittany DeMauro is the Creative Director here at CustomPictureFrames.com. With a background in creative writing and a passion for all things DIY, you'll find her in the shop crafting content. She can always find space for a fun gallery wall and loves discovering new artists to display around her home (in custom frames, of course!) When she's not creating content for our brand, she can most likely be found binging shows on Netflix with her two cats.

Framing isn't just about making your artwork look good; it's about giving it a suit of armor to protect its beauty and value for years to come. So, think of this as your friendly guide to the art of framing photos and art prints. We'll dive into the nitty-gritty, exploring the materials, techniques, and steps that will ensure your beloved pieces stand the test of time. It's like learning the secrets to time travel for your art, and we're here to make it all easy and enjoyable!

The Importance of Proper Framing

Let's chat about the real deal: why proper framing is like a superhero cape for your photos and artwork. It's not just about making them look snazzy; it's about ensuring they stay awesome for the long run. Picture this: framing shields your beloved pieces from dust, pesky humidity, and those sneaky UV rays that love to mess with colors. It's like a protective bubble that keeps your art safe from warping, fading or any other misadventures that time might throw its way. So, think of framing as your art's bodyguard, making sure it looks stunning and holds its value, telling your unique story for generations to come.

Choosing the Right Materials

Choosing the right materials for framing your photos and art prints is like picking the best ingredients for a masterpiece. It's not just about aesthetics; it's about long-term protection. Opt for acid-free matting to prevent yellowing and deterioration over time, and consider UV-protective glass or acrylic to shield your artwork from harmful sunlight. Sturdy frames, whether wood or metal, provide structural support. These materials aren't just choices; they're your artwork's defenders against the forces of nature. In framing, selecting the right materials is the first step in ensuring your cherished pieces remain vibrant and unblemished for years, if not decades, to come.

Preparing the Artwork

Let's talk about prepping your artwork – it's like getting your canvas ready for the grand ball. Before framing, your art needs a little TLC. Start by ensuring it's clean and dry, just like you'd want to look your best for a special occasion. This step may sound like a small detail, but preventing any unwanted surprises down the road is crucial. Think of it as the foundation of your artwork's long and fabulous life in that snazzy frame you're preparing for it.

The Framing Process

Alright, picture this: you've got your shiny new frame, but now you need to bring your photo or art print into the picture. First, let's talk about the components of a frame – it's like understanding the anatomy of your favorite gadget. You've got the frame itself, the mat (if you're using one), the backing board, and the all-important glass or acrylic cover. To make your artwork last longer in this cozy setup, here's the drill: carefully attach your photo or print to the backing board, ensuring it's secure but not too tight. Then, gently slide in that protective glass or acrylic cover, which is like the superhero shield for your artwork. Think of it as a sweet, secure embrace, ensuring your art stays safe and sound within that frame for years to come.

Hanging Your Artwork

Now that you've got your artwork snuggled up in its frame let's talk about giving it the perfect spot on your wall. Hanging your artwork is like giving it a stage to shine. Choose the right location, considering factors like lighting and humidity, because just like you, art prefers some spots over others. Grab the appropriate hanging hardware to ensure it stays securely in place. And remember, when you hang your framed masterpiece, you're not just adding beauty to your space; you're making sure it stays safe and sound for the long haul. So, find that perfect spot and let your art take center stage!

Maintenance and Care

Okay, you've got your artwork framed and fabulous on your wall. But here's the thing: the journey doesn't end there. It's like adopting a pet – you must take care of it. Maintenance and care are like giving your art a little love regularly. Avoid direct sunlight; it's like sunscreen for your artwork, preventing those colors from fading. And don't forget to give that glass or acrylic cover a gentle cleaning every now and then – it's like giving your art a spa day! This TLC ensures that your framed pieces stay as vibrant and stunning as the day you hung them up, and that's what we call a win for your art-loving heart!

Displaying With Purpose

Now, let's talk about displaying your framed art with flair and purpose – it's like giving your home a personal touch. Think strategically about where you place your artwork; some spots are art-friendly, while others might not be so kind. Avoid spots with direct sunlight or extreme humidity – they're like kryptonite for your art. And when you hang your pieces, consider their size and the room's overall vibe. It's like curating your own mini art gallery at home! So, think of it as more than just decorating; it's telling your unique story through the art you love, adding depth to your space that everyone can appreciate.

And there you have it, the art of framing to make your cherished pieces last longer. Remember, it's not just about making them look good; it's about preserving the heart and soul of your artwork. Each step, from choosing the right materials to displaying with purpose, is like a brushstroke in the masterpiece of preserving your creative expression. So, treat your art right, whether it's a beloved family photo or a stunning art print, and it'll tell your unique story for generations to come. Happy framing, art enthusiast!

About The Author

Brittany DeMauro is the Creative Director here at CustomPictureFrames.com. With a background in creative writing and a passion for all things DIY, you'll find her in the shop crafting content. She can always find space for a fun gallery wall and loves discovering new artists to display around her home (in custom frames, of course!) When she's not creating content for our brand, she can most likely be found binging shows on Netflix with her two cats.

Etsy, a global marketplace for handmade, vintage, and unique items, offers an incredible platform for artists to share their creations with the world. Whether you're selling printable digital files, high-quality prints, or custom-framed art pieces, Etsy is the ideal place to turn your passion into profit. In this guide, we'll explore the journey of selling art on Etsy, from choosing the right product format to reaching a broader customer base using Etsy's platform features and social media.

1. Choose Your Art Format

Etsy's diverse marketplace offers a wide array of art that caters to every taste and budget. From affordable printable digital files that allow buyers to add a personal touch to their living spaces to investments in traditional physical art pieces that stand as timeless treasures, Etsy's art section has it all. You can discover intricately detailed illustrations, mesmerizing oil paintings, vibrant watercolors, and so much more.

This platform welcomes both emerging artists seeking to share their talents and seasoned professionals with established portfolios. With options ranging from wallet-friendly digital art downloads to unique, handcrafted artworks, Etsy empowers art enthusiasts to explore, express themselves, and bring a touch of creativity into their lives.

The first step in selling art on Etsy is to determine the format that best suits your creations:

Source: Pixel & Paper Prints

a. Printable Digital Files:

• Ideal for digital artists and graphic designers.
• Offer a range of digital prints, from wall art to greeting cards.
• Upload high-resolution files that buyers can download and print themselves.
• Be sure to specify usage rights and provide helpful printing tips.

Source: Custom Picture Frames Etsy

b. High-Quality Prints:

• Perfect for traditional artists and photographers.
• Invest in high-quality printing services to reproduce your art.
• Offer different sizes and finishes to cater to various preferences.
• Ensure accurate color reproduction and sharp details in your prints.

Source: Custom Picture Frames Etsy

c. Custom-Framed Art Pieces:

• A niche market for artists who want to offer a complete, ready-to-hang product.
• Collaborate with custom framers to create unique framed art pieces.
• Highlight the craftsmanship and customization options you provide.
• Communicate the materials and care used in framing to emphasize quality.

2. Crafting Your Etsy Shop

Your Etsy shop is your online storefront; make it inviting and informative. Creating a high-quality and optimized Etsy shop requires attention to detail and a strategic approach. Start by choosing a shop name that reflects your brand and resonates with your target audience. Craft an eye-catching banner and profile picture, and write a compelling shop description that tells your story and showcases your commitment to quality. Invest in professional, well-lit product photography or high-quality mockups to showcase your items effectively. Ensure your product listings are detailed, informative, and optimized with relevant keywords for search visibility. 

To summarize how to create an inviting and informative Etsy storefront:

• Choose a shop name that represents your brand.
• Create an eye-catching banner and profile picture.
• Write a compelling shop description, sharing your artistic journey and commitment to quality.
• Use high-quality images for your product listings.
• Craft engaging product descriptions that evoke emotions and provide essential details.

3. Reach a New Customer Base with Etsy's Tools

Etsy can benefit Etsy art sellers, providing them with a powerful tool to boost visibility and increase sales. With its visual appeal, art often benefits greatly from advertising, as it can capture the attention of a broader audience. Etsy has tools allowing sellers to reach potential buyers beyond the platform through various online channels, including Google, Facebook, and Instagram. This expanded exposure can attract art enthusiasts and collectors who may not have discovered your shop otherwise. Etsy's advertising tools also enable sellers to target specific demographics and interests, ensuring their art reaches the right audience. With transparent reporting and budget control, sellers can assess the effectiveness of their ad campaigns and optimize them for better results. Ultimately, Etsy empowers art sellers to showcase their creativity, connect with a wider customer base, and turn their passion into a profitable endeavor.

Source: Etsy Seller Handbook

Etsy provides several tools to help you reach a broader customer base:

a. Etsy Ads:

• Use Etsy's advertising platform to promote your listings.
• Set a daily budget and select relevant keywords.
• Monitor ad performance and adjust as needed to maximize visibility.

b. Etsy Offsite Ads:

• Extend your shop's reach beyond the Etsy platform.
• Sellers who meet the eligibility criteria are automatically enrolled.
• Sellers only pay for Offsite ads when they make a sale from a click generated by them.

c. Etsy Search Optimization (SEO):

• Optimize your product titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords.
• Research popular search terms to include in your listings.
• Regularly update your listings to keep them relevant in search results.

4. Promote Your Shop on Social Media

Etsy's Share & Save program is a new, valuable tool that encourages sellers to actively promote their Etsy shops on social media platforms. By sharing their listings through this program, sellers offer potential buyers a discount on their products, incentivizing engagement and encouraging sales. This initiative drives traffic to their Etsy shops and fosters customer loyalty. Sharing products on social media platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook is an effective strategy to increase brand awareness, connect with a broader audience, and ultimately boost sales. These platforms provide a visual and interactive space where sellers can showcase their unique products, share their artistic journey, and engage with potential customers directly. By actively participating in the Share & Save program and harnessing the power of social media, Etsy sellers can elevate their brand presence, establish a strong online community, and thrive in the competitive world of e-commerce.

Source: Etsy Seller Handbook

When sharing your products on social media, it's important to remember to:

• Share high-quality images of your art on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook.
• Use relevant hashtags and engage with your followers.
• Collaborate with other artists and influencers for cross-promotion.
• Create content that tells the story behind your art and your creative process.

5. Build Customer Trust

Etsy strongly emphasizes best practices for customer service and building customer trust. To achieve this, sellers are encouraged to respond to inquiries promptly, address any concerns or questions with professionalism and courtesy, and fulfill orders on time. Providing detailed and accurate product descriptions and high-quality images helps set clear expectations for buyers. A flexible and fair return policy can reassure customers and build trust in your shop. Encouraging satisfied buyers to leave reviews helps boost credibility and signals to potential customers that you're a trusted seller. Etsy's platform also facilitates direct communication between sellers and buyers, fostering a sense of transparency and personalized service. By adhering to these best practices, Etsy sellers can cultivate a positive shopping experience, earn customer loyalty, and establish a reputation for reliable and trustworthy service, ultimately leading to repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.

Exceptional customer service is vital for building trust and securing repeat business:

• Respond promptly to inquiries and provide clear, friendly communication.
• Offer a hassle-free return policy to reassure customers.
• Encourage satisfied buyers to leave reviews, which can boost your credibility.

6. Secure Packaging and Shipping

Delivering Etsy orders promptly and safely is a top priority for sellers. For digital files, ensuring that downloads are readily accessible and user-friendly is key. Sellers should provide clear instructions and ensure that the files are high-quality and easily downloadable to enhance the customer's experience.

In the case of physical art, packaging is paramount. Sellers should invest in sturdy and protective packaging materials to safeguard the artwork during transit, including options like archival sleeves and sturdy boxes. Properly securing the artwork with protective layers can prevent damage and ensure that the customer receives their order in pristine condition. Timely shipping and clear communication on estimated delivery times further contribute to a positive customer experience, fostering trust and satisfaction that can lead to repeat business and positive reviews on Etsy.

Protect your art during transit by investing in secure packaging materials:

• Use appropriate packaging for your chosen art format.
• For prints, consider adding protective layers, such as glassine paper or archival sleeves.
• Be transparent about shipping times and provide tracking information to buyers.

Selling art on Etsy is an exciting journey that allows artists to share their creativity with a global audience. By choosing the right art format, crafting an appealing Etsy shop, utilizing Etsy's tools like ads and SEO, and promoting your shop on social media, you can expand your reach and find success in the art market. Whether you offer printable digital files, high-quality prints, or custom-framed art pieces, Etsy provides the platform to turn your passion into a thriving business. Embrace the artistic possibilities, and watch your artistry flourish on Etsy!

About The Author

Brittany DeMauro is the Creative Director here at CustomPictureFrames.com. With a background in creative writing and a passion for all things DIY, you'll find her in the shop crafting content. She can always find space for a fun gallery wall and loves discovering new artists to display around her home (in custom frames, of course!) When she's not creating content for our brand, she can most likely be found binging shows on Netflix with her two cats.

Canvas art has a unique ability to transform any space. Its texture and depth bring life to your favorite memories and artistic expressions. One way to enhance the presentation of canvas art is by framing it in a floater frame. This not only adds a professional touch but also protects the canvas. In this guide, we'll walk you through installing your canvas art into a floater frame using countersink pilot holes, spacers, and screws for a flawless finish.

Watch our video tutorial or follow the step-by-step instructions below to frame your canvas art in a floater frame like a pro!

Supplies

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials ready:

1. Canvas Art
2. Floater Frame
3. Drill
4. Countersink Drill Bit
5. Screwdriver Drill Bit
6. Spacers (plastic or cardboard)
7. Screws

Step 1: Measure and Mark

Start by measuring your canvas art and the floater frame to ensure a perfect fit. Use a measuring tape and a pencil to mark where the screws will go along the back of your floater frame. Maintaining uniform spacing around the frame is essential for a balanced look. The larger your canvas art and frame is, the more screws you'll want to use to secure your art into the frame. 

Step 2: Create Countersink Pilot Holes

To make sure the screws sit flush with the frame, you'll need to create countersink pilot holes. Attach a countersink drill bit to your drill. Position it over each marked spot and drill gently. Be cautious not to drill too deep; the goal is to create a slight indentation for the screw heads. While this isn't necessary, it does create a more professional finish and keeps the screws from damaging the wall behind your frame. 

Step 3: Insert Spacers

Turn your frame over and insert your canvas into the frame. Place spacers along the inner edge of the floater frame, ensuring they're evenly distributed. These spacers create a gap between the canvas and the frame, giving it that 'floating' effect. You can use plastic or cardboard spacers; the choice is yours.

Step 4: Screw It In

Now, it's time to secure your canvas in the floater frame. Slide your frame to the edge of your workspace to make the pilot holes accessible. From one corner, insert screws into the countersink pilot holes in the frame from underneath. Be gentle and use enough pressure to tighten the screws without damaging the canvas. Continue this process for all marked spots around the frame.

Step 5: Hang Your Masterpiece

With your canvas securely installed in the floater frame, it's now ready to be hung on your wall. Remove the spacers and use appropriate hardware to ensure it's level to showcase your artwork beautifully.

Framing your canvas art in a floater frame is a fantastic way to elevate its presentation and protect it for years. By following this step-by-step guide, including creating countersink pilot holes, using spacers, and carefully screwing the canvas into the frame from underneath, you'll have a professionally framed masterpiece that will impress anyone who sees it. Enjoy your art in all its glory, proudly displayed for all to admire!

About The Author

Brittany DeMauro is the Creative Director here at CustomPictureFrames.com. With a background in creative writing and a passion for all things DIY, you'll find her in the shop crafting content. She can always find space for a fun gallery wall and loves discovering new artists to display around her home (in custom frames, of course!) When she's not creating content for our brand, she can most likely be found binging shows on Netflix with her two cats.

Decorating your living space with picture frames is a wonderful way to add personality and warmth to your home. However, if you're renting, the thought of putting holes in the walls might make you hesitate. The good news is that there are plenty of innovative alternatives to hanging picture frames without nails (or at least fewer nails), allowing you to enjoy a beautifully decorated space without any lasting damage. In this blog post, we'll explore some creative and renter-friendly options for displaying your cherished memories on the walls. 

*NOTE: Be sure to follow instructions on the packaging to ensure proper use and installation to minimize accidents and damages. These methods may still cause damage to your walls, so use caution. When in doubt, talk to your landlord.*

1. Adhesive Hooks and Strips

Adhesive hooks and strips are a renter's best friend when it comes to hanging picture frames without nails. They come in various weight capacities and are designed to hold firmly to the wall without leaving any residue when removed. Simply attach the adhesive hook to the wall and hang your picture frame using the attached wire or sawtooth hanger. When you're ready to move, just peel off the adhesive strip without a trace.

2. Command Hooks

Command Hooks, a brand of adhesive hooks, are specifically designed to offer damage-free hanging solutions. They come in various sizes and styles, making them suitable for various frame weights and designs. Command Hooks are easy to apply and remove, making them an excellent choice for renters who want to personalize their space without making permanent changes.

Source: Spot Of Tea Designs

3. Picture Ledges

Picture ledges are versatile and stylish options for displaying multiple picture frames without needing nails to display each picture frame. These narrow shelves are installed close to the wall and provide a platform for arranging frames artfully and dynamically with just a few holes in your wall. You can easily change the layout of your frames and swap out pictures as you wish, making picture ledges perfect for showcasing seasonal or rotating displays.

Source: Porch And Peony

4. Picture Rails

Picture rails are a unique way to display art while minimizing the amount of holes in your walls. You can even use tension rods for a no-hole recreation if your space permits. Tension rods are typically used for curtains, but they can also be a creative way to hang picture frames. Install a rod on your walls, and then hang your frames from the rod using hooks or clips. This method works well for creating a gallery wall without making holes for each picture frame and offers flexibility in arranging your frames.

Source: Honestly WTF

5. Decorative Washi Tape

If you want a playful and temporary solution, decorative washi tape can do the trick. Use washi tape to create a visually appealing border around your pictures to act as frames. This works particularly well for smaller images and adds a touch of color and whimsy to your wall decor. 

6. Easel Stands

When in doubt, use your table space. If you have tabletop picture frames, use easel stands to display them on shelves, mantels, or countertops. Easel stands come in various styles and sizes, allowing you to create charming vignettes throughout your space. While this is the most renter-friendly option for displaying picture frames, your tabletop space might be limited, so it's important to weigh your options.

Decorating your rented space with picture frames doesn't have to involve nails and wall damage. By exploring these renter-friendly options, you can personalize your home, add a touch of your own style, and showcase your cherished memories without compromising your lease agreement. From adhesive solutions to creative alternatives, the possibilities for displaying your frames are virtually endless.

Remember, the key is to choose the method that suits your frames' weight and your preferences while keeping in mind the rules and guidelines set by your landlord. With a little creativity and some renter-friendly tools, you can transform your walls into a gallery of memories that truly reflect your personality and style.

Decorating is about making a space feel uniquely yours, and these alternatives to traditional nails ensure that even renters can enjoy a personalized and beautifully adorned living environment.

About The Author

Brittany DeMauro is the Creative Director here at CustomPictureFrames.com. With a background in creative writing and a passion for all things DIY, you'll find her in the shop crafting content. She can always find space for a fun gallery wall and loves discovering new artists to display around her home (in custom frames, of course!) When she's not creating content for our brand, she can most likely be found binging shows on Netflix with her two cats.