Above sofa wall art can be challenging! Discover how to hang a gallery wall over a couch solo by crafting your own gallery wall template. This simple method ensures a flawless finish with absolutely no misplaced nail holes.
To be candid,
I tend to be quite casual about wall hanging. Maybe my comfort comes from the unique walls of older homes, like dated 70s paneling or stained plywood, where a stray nail was never a big deal since any mark could be easily covered or repaired with a picture.
Truthfully, my preferred method involves a helper: one person holds the art while the other steps back, guiding placement until it's perfect, followed by a quick nail tap for completion.
Recently, though, I needed to hang a gallery wall above our sofa. It seemed simple, yet I was alone, and precise placement was crucial this time.
I recalled a useful trick from my collection, and it worked flawlessly.
Creating Your Own Gallery Wall Template
Materials required:
- a roll of substantial paper such as brown packing paper or wrapping paper
- adhesive tape (I utilized painter’s tape)
- a measuring tape
- a pen
- a hammer
- nails or picture hangers
1. Determine the area above your couch you wish to cover with artwork.
I aimed for a prominent statement area above the couch, measuring 70 inches across by 45 inches high.
2. Employ the paper roll to cut a template matching the final arrangement dimensions (as measured in step one).
Any rolled paper works; I used some discounted Christmas wrapping paper from my closet, needing to join two sections to achieve the necessary height.
3. Affix the paper to the wall to verify it matches the desired final size.
While not mandatory, I took this step to confirm my satisfaction with the size, which I was, so I continued.
4. Arrange your pieces directly onto the paper until the look is pleasing.
This is the enjoyable part! Since the surface is accessible and no actual nails are set yet, you can reposition pictures freely to your liking.
A helpful feature of using this wrapping paper was its grid markings. Because I wanted symmetry, this feature greatly assisted in maintaining straight lines.
5. Indicate the exact placement for every picture on the template.
I indicated both the upper edge of the images and the precise spot for each nail.
Since each photo has a unique hanger placement, place an “x” directly on where the hanger belongs; a ruler may be necessary for accuracy.
Next, affix the template to the wall and secure the nails at the marked “x” locations.
I began the process by centering the largest picture.
Then, I proceeded to arrange the remaining pieces around it.
It is satisfying to observe your intended design taking shape on the wall.
After all the nails are installed, take down the pictures, remove the template, and then re-hang the artwork!
And voilà~ a flawless gallery wall crafted uniquely by you!
Where to find materials:
- Verse print sign: Hobby Lobby (I secured this print using the 40% coupon during a fantastic sale!)
- Free Printable Botanical Art Prints are accessible here
- Globe decor: Hobby Lobby
- Artificial foliage: Ikea
- Display shelves: These are quite aged, possibly from Winners?
For additional inspiration regarding above sofa wall art, check here
- Consider attempting a DIY canvas with floating frame
- This christmas canvas art illuminates!
- Modern Farmhouse Printables for Fall (including a video demonstrating free printable usage)
- Simple Steps for Hanging a Gallery Wall
- Four Techniques for Gallery Wall Installation from Southern Living
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