Wednesday, January 25, 2012

My Photo Collage Wall

Finally, I finished a project!!  And, we're only, what, 3 weeks into January??  Where has the time gone?  But, it's done and I'm thrilled.



If you've ever hung a collage of photos on the wall, you know that it is no easy task.  One would like to think it could be something like this:

source

But, trust me, that most likely will not achieve the kind of photo collage you are looking for.

The method we used is probably not the most effective either, but it worked and I'm pleased with my wall of photos.

First, I placed all of my frames on the floor, rearranged them until I had what I wanted, and then I snapped a photo.  Confession:  this photo was taken in July, of last year; that's how long I've had these frames and been wanting to do this project.


Then, 6 months later...my husband suggested stapling newspaper together (it was free since we already had the paper) to use as a template.


I then placed my frames on the paper, following my photo.



We measured between them (roughly) using that black device below {I don't know what it's called, but it's a ruler in the shape of an L, so you get 90 degree angles}.




Then, using a permanent marker, I outlined each frame.  If you're following this method, do this part carefully so as not to tear the paper and get marker on your carpet.

You can see how 'rough' our placements were.  We knew we would be able to adjust once the paper was on the wall.
Using masking tape, we taped the entire paper to the wall and started hanging the nails.  This took some time, and patience from my sweet husband, who willingly did this part for me.  He used my outlines, measured the space to the hook for each frame, hammered in the nail, and then hung the picture so we could see how it worked.  I think we only ended up with 3 extra holes in the wall :)



And, here is the finished product:


I'm a lover of symmetry and uniformity {if I find a shirt that I like, I usually buy it in several different colors}, so mixing up frame shapes and frame details was a stretch for me.  However, by using all black frames and black and white prints, it remains cohesive enough for me.  {I still need to get a black and white photo of my brother made, and the empty frame is for the little one due in April, so it will be empty for awhile}.


This was a fun project to do and I'm glad to have another little spot in our house finished.


Here are some great tutorials on hanging photo collages, if you're looking for something more professional. Ha!

Picture Perfect: How to Hang a Grouping, Better Homes and Gardens
How to Hang a Gallery Wall, Being Brook Create Awesome
The Hallway Full Monty, Young House Love

11 comments:

  1. This looks great! I have a photo collage on a wall in my kitchen, but I have been thinking of re-doing it, so these helps will be good. Thanks!

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  2. Great idea! I love the black frames and black and white shots!

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  3. that looks awesome!! i have seen a lot of photo collages done poorly, but yours looks great! i love the newspaper method...maybe not the fanciest, but it worked!

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  4. Looks great, Lauren! I'll send you that file soon. Have not had a chance yet. =)

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  5. This looks so good!! I love that you used black and white photos. And that's a perfect spot for the collage!

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  6. That looks great, Lauren! What a clever way to place the photos on the wall....good idea!

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  7. It really turned out amazing! I'm very impressed!

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  8. it looks so good lauren! i love these snippets of how you decorate your home! makes me look forward to that phase of my life when we own our own place!

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  9. I, too, think it looks great! And congrats on the little one coming, I did not know!! :) So happy for you and Bradley!

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  10. This looks so great! I love photo collage walls. I'm dreaming of having one, one day! I love the color of your wall as well - so pretty!

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  11. Job well done! and it is not easy. Thank you so much for sharing. My very first visit here I will follow on my way out. Perhaps you will find the time to come visit me soon and do the same. I look forward to engaging more throughout the year and beyond. Take care. Cheers SpecialK XoXo

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