DIY Gallery Wall Shelf Using Thrifted Frames

This DIY gallery wall shelf using thrifted frames was super easy. Especially because we used thrifted frames from OC Goodwill and created all the prints on my own. This project is cheap and easy to complete, and can modernize any space. I switch out the prints through out the year to go with my bedroom decor and seasons.

The Frames

First, head to your local Goodwill or thrift store and purchase frames. I like to pick a variety of shapes and sizes so it gives your project dimension and personality! I got all of my frames from my local OC Goodwill. They always have an amazing variety of frames to choose from. You can find my top 5 favorite OC Goodwills here.

The Shelf

I purchased the shelf from Ikea, but you could make your own by attaching a 1×2 (cut at the length of your desired shelf), attaching it to your wall, and using a 1×8 or 1×6 (also cut at the length desired), attach to the top of your 1×2 using a nail gun or screwing it to the top of your 1×2 prior to attaching it to the wall. I used this method in my bathroom project seen here.

The Prints

Write out the frame sizes and make note so you can pick/print and order prints the correct size. You can also adjust your printer to print the correct sizes.

Here are some tips when finding the right prints:

Pick a color palette. You can search color palettes on Pinterest. Here is my color palette board. You can create a board and refer back when changing out your DIY gallery wall through the seasons. Be sure to follow me to keep up with my projects. This is the color palette I am going with for Spring.

Once you have picked your color palette, search “free gallery wall printables” on Pinterest. Here is a board full of some of my favorite modern gallery wall printables. You can also buy affordable printables from Etsy, download and print them yourself.

You can also make your own. I use Canva and Picmonkey to search for images and create my own prints.

Try using a variety of prints, one with pattern, one with lots of color, one with words, and maybe one illustration. After I come up with my prints, I use a collage maker or PicMonkey to create a collage and see my images together, making sure they are cohesive.

I recommend printing your prints on card stock. You can see the difference in your gallery wall when using a good paper quality.

Next, print and put the art into frames. After the prints are framed, try a variety of layouts on your shelf. Mix the frames up, layering them by size, color and shape. You want to overlap some and layer some in front to give it dimension.