How to Create an Entryway Gallery Wall

First impressions make a big difference. The entryway is the room that not only greets your friends and guests but also provides a glimpse into your design philosophy, personal style and how organized you are as an individual. Here is an entryway idea that will leave a big visual impact. Follow the how-to instructions below to get started.

Supplies for This Project

  • Pencil
  • Straight edge
  • Measuring tape
  • Moulding for frame
  • Miter saw
  • Level
  • Safety goggles
  • Construction adhesive

1. Prep

Wash surface of area where entryway gallery wall would be placed.

Scuff sand the wall and patch holes as needed.

2. Plan

Plan the design you would like to create, keeping in mind objects you would like to feature within your gallery and measurements.

Use a tape measure and pencil to mark the corners of your gallery wall at your desired lengths.

Tape off desired area of gallery.

Tip: Cut pieces of paper the size of all the picture frames you want to use. Tape them to your wall to map out the layout of your gallery wall.

Tip: Use a level to ensure your horizontal and verticals borders are true.

3. Paint

Paint with paint roller within desired area using a W stroke, being careful not paint outside of the tape.

Let dry for 4 hours.

Note: We used Alabaster SW 7008 for the base of our gallery.

4. Prep Moulding

Use desired moulding to frame out gallery wall; we used wood moulding.

While you are waiting for the paint on the wall to dry, use a miter saw to cut moulding at 45 degree angles to desired measurement. It is important to note that the longest edge is on the outside and matches height or width of gallery wall.

Paint moulding and let dry for 1 hour.

Note: Bare wood moulding should be primed before painting.

Tip: Some hardware stores sell pre-primed moulding and are willing to make a few cuts for you.

5. Apply Moulding

If your moulding is lightweight you can use construction adhesive on the back of moulding.

Adhere mouldings to form gallery wall to the edge of the painted gallery wall area.

Allow to dry for about 2 hours to make sure that mouldings are adhered to wall.

Note: Heavier moulding may need to be nailed to the wall.

6. Hang Artwork

Hang any photos, painting, or artwork you would like to display.

7. Enjoy!

WARNING! Removal of old paint by sanding, scraping or other means may generate dust or fumes that contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. Controlling exposure to lead or other hazardous substances requires the use of proper protective equipment, such as a properly fitted respirator (NIOSH approved) and proper containment and cleanup. For more information, call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (in US) or contact your local health authority.

Colors We Used

Check out our most popular colors for your most important projects to develop your color palette and create like a pro. See the colors we used for this design below.

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