Grid Art How To.

The grass cloth in our master bathroom has been crying out for some art.

I wanted to keep it inexpensive but not skimp on size. A collection of images hung in a grid pattern did the trick!



The frames were $6 each at Michaels. I bought a Birds of the Wetlands book at a local discount store for $4. (Sidenote: loving the graphic quality of the flocks of birds!!) Any coffee table book should be full of images great for framing. So for around $40 I got six pieces of art, that combined take up a substantial amount of wall space. How great would it be to double the amount of frames and hang this over a sofa?! The book has so many more beautiful images I didn't use. Huge impact for under $100!

Now for the tedious task of getting them from this...

to this.

I tried a new method for hanging a grid collection.

Basically I laid out the grouping of frames the way I wanted them to look on the wall (only image side face down on the ground).

Then I laid a piece of clear plastic larger than the collection over the grouping and traced the frames and marked where nails needed to be placed based on hook location.

Then I hung the plastic on the wall and hammered in nails where the marks suggested.

That being said, this method wasn't perfect. I think part of this is to blame on the fact that the plastic I used was crinkly. If you use a fresh piece of wax paper I think you'd get better results. Since this method wasn't perfect, I used one of my favorite apps for some additional help. Have you guys heard of the GyroLeveler? I don't even carry a leveler with me anymore. This free app works so well I was even able to use it when I installed subway tile in the half bath.

Even prettier when you get a double dose reflected in the mirror!

New Years Resolution Three: Display More Photographs in my Home.

My camera is basically like a member of my family. I take it everywhere, use it constantly, and cherish the millions of photos I take. Yet for some crazy bizarre reason, I raaaareellyy obtain a hard copy of the prized possessions. So as both a decorating as well as personal goal for 2011, I will print and frame more photos showcasing the great people in my life and all the exciting adventures I'm fortunate enough to go on.

And look at all the amazing ways to do just that:


(West Elm)


(Kristen Buckingham)


(Tori Mellot created this uber stylish and popular gallery wall that has made its way around the blogosphere a time or two)


(Elle Decor. Pick a hallway and a color for your frames and go all out!)


(Australian Vogue Living. For those of us with lots of life lived and the photos to prove it.)


(Coastal Living)


(Cookie Magazine)


(Lona de Anna)


(Kate and Andy Spade's home as seen in The Selby)

And for a very easy way to make sure your gallery wall is perfect, read here.