This Simple Framing Trick Makes Small Art Look Twice as Big (and Fills a Blank Wall Fast)

How to Make Gallery Walls for Less

The answer to this decorating conundrum: use big photo mats. While large pieces of art create an instant visual stopping point, smaller pieces (like 6x6- inch or 8x10-inch) play more of a supporting role, offering bits of personality to a space rather than becoming a major style-driver. Large photo mats help frame small artworks, giving the entire piece more presence in an understated way. This is a particular look that’s not for everybody, but if you’re looking to fill a big wall on the cheap, try it out.

Here’s why we love the idea: smaller pieces of art and photo prints are significantly more affordable and relatively easy to find. Their lighter scale still adds a ton of personality to the space, but their scaled-down use of color or photo style won’t overpower or dictate the room like a larger piece might. A large photo mat around the art piece is the space-filler. They’re cheap, easy to DIY, and can be done in a huge range of colors, textures, and even patterns.

Frame It Up

Large frames themselves are super easy to find at thrift stores, but there are tons available online, too. You can find very affordable, large options at major retailer sites like Amazon, Wayfair, Walmart, etc., in packs or sets that won’t break your budget. They’re easy to spray paint or dress up if you want a little more style, but the minimalism of a simple frame works quite well with the chunky scale of a large mat.

living room gallery wall

Kim Cornelison

Add Color and Pattern

This is when the idea really takes off—who says the photo mat has to stay white? Using a large photo mat is an opportunity to add even more style, color, or pattern to a piece of art. Consider painting the mat in a pattern, like stripes, plaids, or dots, or covering it with the extra roll of wallpaper left over from your last project. Or, simply use a colored or textured mat to keep the look minimal with just a little more oomph. Bookend the gallery wall with plug-in or battery-operated wall sconces for extra impact. The style combinations and opportunities are endless.