Skip To Main Content

Drop off at your local Walmart Photo or Electronics counter, or mail your media to us.

Creating a Memory Wall

< Back to Blog Home

Creating a Memory Wall

Spoiler Alert: It’s Easier Than You Think!


A gallery wall is one of the most personal, beautiful ways to decorate your home. It adds warmth, tells your family’s story, and surrounds you with the memories that matter most. While the idea of arranging multiple frames can feel intimidating at first, with a little planning (and a “measure twice, make holes once” mindset), it’s actually quite simple. And the reward of seeing your photo memories displayed every day is well worth it. 

 

Step 1: Evaluate Your Space

A memory wall isn’t just for your largest walls. Consider other spaces too: 

  • Stairways and hallways that need visual interest 
  • Dining rooms or cozy nooks for conversation pieces 
  • Even bathrooms (though you’ll want to use copies, not originals, due to moisture) 

Think about the overall vibe of the space:

  • Colors (neutral vs. bold) 
  • Lighting (natural vs. artificial) 
  • Flow (does the wall open to other rooms, or is it a stand-alone space?) 
  • Purpose (is this a public spot for guests, or a private family retreat?) 

Your answers will guide your design choices. 

  

Step 2: Decide on the Look You’re After 



Not sure where to start? Inspiration is everywhere. Browse galleries online and save the layouts that feel like “you.” Ask yourself: 

  • Do you prefer clean symmetry or a more eclectic mix? 
  • Color photos, black-and-white, or a thoughtful combination? 
  • Uniform frames, or varied sizes and finishes? 

Pro tip: Many design retailers (like Crate and Barrel) share gallery wall layout templates that you can “borrow” and adapt for your space. 

 

Step 3: Gather Your Memories

Now comes the fun part: choosing the photos. 

  • Select a few larger anchor images as focal points. Surround these with smaller photos for balance. 
  • Consider how far away the wall will be viewed from which helps determine sizing. 
  • To enlarge older prints, digitize them first. This preserves your originals while letting you create high-quality copies sized perfectly for your wall. 

If your photos are damaged or faded, don’t worry, professional photo restoration can work wonders. Skilled artists can: 

  • Smooth wrinkles and glare 
  • Restore color and contrast 
  • Even add or remove people, objects, or backgrounds 

That way, your memory wall reflects your photos at their very best. 



Step 4: Pick Your Approach and Hang with Confidence 


Once you’ve chosen your style and layout, it’s time to bring it to life. 

  • Use paper templates to map out your wall before making any holes. 
  • Explore no-nail options like adhesive hanging systems if you want flexibility. 
  • And remember: even if you make a mistake, it’s easily fixed. Don’t let fear hold you back. 

The joy of seeing your wall complete will outweigh any small hiccups along the way. 

 

Step 5: Share Your Creation 

We’d love to see your memory wall! Send us a photo and we may feature it in our inspiration gallery for others to enjoy.  


We’re Here to Help

Digitizing your photos is the easiest way to get started. Not only does it protect your originals, but it also gives you the flexibility to resize, reprint, and preserve them for generations to come. With digital copies, you’ll: 

  • Build your wall with confidence 
  • Share memories on modern devices 
  • Back everything up securely, just like your other important files 

Your story deserves to be celebrated on your walls, in your home, and in the hearts of everyone who sees it. 

 

Key Takeaways 

  • Great walls can be created in big or small spaces 
  • Choose a style (symmetry vs. eclectic) before hanging 
  • Digitize originals to preserve them and allow enlargements 
  • Restoration can repair damage for display-quality results 
  • Hanging mistakes are fixable. The joy of finished walls is priceless 

< Back to Blog Home