How to Create a Painted Gallery Wall Frame Effect

Love the look of a curated gallery wall but want a more unique, budget-friendly twist? Try painting the frames directly onto the wall. A painted gallery wall frame effect offers all the visual interest of traditional art displays, with none of the nail holes, frame costs, or layout frustration. It’s stylish, creative, and totally customisable.

Whether you're going for minimalist outlines or bold, colourful borders, this DIY approach adds artistic flair and structure to your walls without overpowering your space. Here’s how to create the perfect painted gallery wall frame effect, step by step.

Why Choose a Painted Frame Gallery Wall?

• Budget-friendly: No need to buy or hang physical frames.

• Customisable: Adjust sizes, shapes, and colours to suit your space.

• Wall-safe: Ideal for renters or anyone avoiding wall damage.

• Low-maintenance: No dusting glass or adjusting crooked frames.

• Creative freedom: Mix colours, finishes, or even layer with real art.

  
  

What You’ll Need

• Painter's tape (or masking tape for clean lines)

• Pencil or chalk for sketching

• Ruler or level for measuring

• Acrylic wall paint in your chosen colour(s)

• Angled paintbrush or fine detailing brush

• Stencils (optional)

  
  

Step-by-Step: How to Paint Faux Frames on Your Wall

1. Plan Your Layout

Start by deciding where your gallery will go. Measure your wall and sketch out a mock layout. Use painter’s tape on the wall to map out the size and spacing of each faux frame.

Top tip: Keep consistent spacing between frames (typically 5–8cm) to make the layout feel cohesive.

2. Mark Out the Frame Shapes

Use a pencil or chalk to outline the shape of each frame. Go traditional with rectangles and squares, or mix it up with arches, ovals, or abstract shapes.

3. Tape the Borders

Apply painter’s tape along your outlines to ensure crisp, clean edges. Press the tape down firmly to prevent bleeding.

4. Start Painting

Using a small brush, paint carefully within the taped outlines. For bolder frames, you might need two coats. Remove the tape while the paint is still slightly wet for the cleanest lines.

Optional: Add inner shadow lines or double borders for a 3D effect.

5. Let It Dry and Add Your Art

Once your painted frames are dry, you can:

• Leave them as minimalist outlines

• Paint art or quotes directly inside

• Mount unframed prints, postcards or photos using tack or removable adhesive

  
  

Creative Ideas for Painted Gallery Walls

• Monochrome magic: Use one colour in varying tones for a modern look.

• Bold & bright: Use high-contrast colours to create visual drama.

• Kid-friendly version: Let children help choose shapes or draw their own mini masterpieces inside the frames.

• Vintage twist: Paint ornate frame shapes in muted gold, navy or burgundy.

  
  

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a level for straight lines

• Measure twice, tape once!

• Test your paint on a scrap surface or small wall patch first

• Try a matte or satin finish for a clean, professional look

  
  

Final Thoughts

A painted gallery wall frame effect is a clever, creative way to personalise your home while staying on budget. Whether you're filling a hallway, brightening a stairwell, or adding personality to a bedroom, this technique delivers big impact with minimal cost.

So grab your brush and your imagination—and transform your walls into a curated canvas of style and expression.