I Tried the “Tape Method” to Save Hundreds on a Gallery Wall, and It Really Works
A gallery wall is a design choice that’s long been deemed controversial. It could be because they can cost a lot of money, at least that’s why I’ve avoided them. That is, until I saw this genius $7 idea. Whether you’re over them or have mastered the art of these photo displays, you’re going to want to learn more.
In the video above, viewers are shown Giverny Petitmermet and Mara Gannon’s 800-square-foot Brooklyn apartment, and what caught my eye was how Giverny came up with an affordable way to display unframed artwork and make it look intentional and elevated. I’m calling it “the tape method.”
“We don’t have very much money,” Giverny said at the time of the House Tour video. “Instead of frames, we use tape.” Her roommate, Mara, says that Giverny has a way to use objects like tape to make her walls “look awesome.”
How to Use Tape to Create a Gallery Wall
I’m not a project person by any means, and a lot of instructions or tools immediately overwhelm me and will put me off starting something. But Giverny’s idea was so cheap and literally required only one item (some black tape) that I thought it would be easy enough for me.
To start, I assembled some mementos and photos that mean a lot to me. A picture of my husband and I, baby me (I like to say positive affirmations while looking at my younger self), and a special letter from my grandpa-in-law. What made my experience easier is that the tape I have is supersoft, so when I inevitably made a few measuring mistakes and needed to remove it, it didn’t take paint off the wall or ruin the paper.
Up close, you can tell there are a few measurement errors (remember, I’m not a DIY person, I’m doing my best!), but from far away, it looks like a gallery wall. A set of tape only costs less than $7, and a framed gallery wall can cost hundreds of dollars.
The tape method is great for renters (who don’t want to ruin their walls with holes) and also for people who swap out their artwork or photos regularly. Another bonus? You don’t necessarily have to use black tape; you can use several different colored frames. Or, you can be artsy like Giverny and not even do traditional frame shapes. (I’m not there yet, but maybe one day!)
If you’re looking for an inexpensive, renter-friendly way to create a striking gallery wall, try the tape method. I can guarantee your guests won’t realize it’s tape at first glance.
There are many more beautiful tips to discover than just the tape method. Check out all the House Tours featured in this post’s video roundup.