How to Make Easy DIY Fabric Wall Art For your Home
Adding a pop of color to your walls is a breeze with this easy DIY fabric wall art project.
Today is our monthly Handcrafted Society post, and we are all about the fabric. I am always amazed at what my blogger friends create. Check out their blogs linked at the end of this post.
If you have come over from Jennifer’s blog @cottageonbunkerhill, welcome. Didn’t you love her fall-felt garland? I don’t know about you, but I am ready for fall and wish these hot temperatures would disappear.
I love how a piece of fabric can instantly transform a blank wall into a work of art, all without breaking the bank.
My office walls were missing that special touch, so I added a pop of color with fabric wall art. I wanted the artwork to reflect my style and colors, so I chose fabrics I loved.
Fabric wall art is a versatile way to decorate any room in your home, from your living room to your dining room or dorm rooms. The possibilities are truly endless!
How do you make simple wall art?
You can use your leftover fabric to create wall art in several DIY projects. You can choose the fabric that suits your home, such as linen or upholstery fabric, or maybe use white fabric with some texture for a neutral look.
Since I had a box of old picture frames in the closet (I think we all have a few around), the best choice for me was a wall art gallery.
I had some extra fabric on hand, and I found a great dress at the thrift store with the perfect color and print.
I also like to purchase a fat quarter (the new fabric that comes in a bundle with companion patterns) from a local fabric store. However, thrift stores are an easy way to find fabric pieces at a low cost, and I love the hunt.
On my blog WM Design House, I may sometimes use affiliate links, which means a small commission is earned if you purchase via the link. The price will be the same whether you use the affiliate link or go directly to the vendor’s website using a non-affiliate link.
How do you decorate walls with fabric?
There are many creative ways to use fabric for home decor projects. In this blog post, I will discuss how I transformed a boring wall into a stylish gallery wall by updating old picture frames with simple fabric.
Gather your materials to make DIY fabric wall art gallery
- An assortment of old picture frames. The frames should be simple and flat, without any intricate details. If you use a frame with some dimension, it is best to use a busier fabric. This way, you can cut into the material without distorting the pattern. Choose different shapes and sizes to create interest in your wall decor.
- Cotton fabric. I recommend using quilting cotton as it does not stretch and has a tight weave.
- Choose a color scheme and mix different patterns. This will help to create a cohesive look for your wall art.
- Mod Podge or collage glue
- A good pair of fabric scissors
- Ruler
- Pen
- You can use art, pictures, or even another piece of fabric to place in your frames. I used a piece of fabric in one of my frames, and I love how it turned out.
Instructions to make your DIY fabric wall art frames
- If your frames are dark like mine, give them a good coat of white spray paint so you cannot see any color through the fabric.
- Lay your picture frame on the backside of the fabric face down.
- Cut the fabric to be 4-5 inches larger than the frame on all sides.
- Use a ruler to measure the thickness of the frame. Then, draw a square with the exact dimensions on each frame corner. For example, if the frame is 1″ thick, draw a 1″ x 1″ square on each corner. The square should touch the outside corner of the frame.
- Draw a diagonal line through the square that extends several inches on either side.
- Repeat the process on all four sides of the picture frame. Then, cut along the lines you drew and around the squares
- Draw a line around the interior of your frame on the back side of the fabric.
- Remove the frame and draw a large “X” in the box you just drew for the frame’s interior.
Gluing the fabric to the frame
- Brush a thin layer of glue onto the face of your frame and place it on the fabric lining up the corners and the “X” in the center of the frame.
- Turn your frame and fabric over and smooth out the fabric.
- Place the frame face down again.
- Make two minor cuts along the inside face of each corner square. You want to cut very close to the edge but not all the way through. This will create a tab that will help hide the corners of the frame.
- Apply a small amount of glue onto one corner of the frame and glue the small tab onto the corner.
- Make a small slit in the fabric that remains above the frame.
- Glue these two tabs down on the back of the frame.
- Repeat this process on all four corners.
- Glue the sides to the back of the frame, starting at the bottom.
- Place a small amount of glue onto the edge and back of the picture frame.
- Pull your fabric up and rub any wrinkles or bubbles with your hand.
- Trim off any excess fabric.
- Repeat this process on the opposite and both sides and let the picture frame dry for a few hours.
- Cut along the lines of the “X” on the frame’s interior.
- Then working one side at a time, place a thin layer of glue along the inside edge and fold your fabric over. (You may want to trim your fabric first to avoid excess fabric).
- Repeat this process on all four sides.
- Allow to dry for several hours.
DIY Fabric Wall Art
Equipment
- 1 pair of scissors
- 1 Bottle of Mod Podge or Collage glue
- 1 Fan styled paint brush
- 1 Ruler
- 1 Pen
Materials
- 4-7 Picture frames
- 4-7 Pieces cotton fabric
- 4-7 Pictures or artwork
Instructions
- Lay your picture frame on the backside of the fabric face down.
- Cut the fabric to be 4-5 inches larger than the frame on all sides.
- Draw a square with the exact dimensions on each frame corner. For example, if the frame is 1" thick, draw a 1" x 1" square on each corner. The square should touch the outside corner of the frame.
- Draw a diagonal line through the square that extends several inches on either side.
- Repeat the process on all four sides of the picture frame.
- Cut along the lines you drew and around the squares.
- Draw a line around the interior of your frame on the back side of the fabric.
- Remove the frame and draw a large X in the box you just drew for the frame's interior.
- Brush a thin layer of glue onto the face of your frame and place it on the fabric lining up the corners and the X in the center of the frame.
- Turn your frame over and smooth out the fabric.
- Place the frame face down again. Make two minor cuts along the inside face of each corner square. You want to cut very close to the edge but not all the way through. This will create a tab that will help hide the corners of the frame.
- Apply a small amount of glue onto one corner of the frame and glue the small tab onto the corner.
- Repeat this process on each corner.
- Glue the sides to the back of the frame, starting at the bottom.
- Place a small amount of glue onto the edge and back of the picture frame.
- Pull your fabric up and rub any wrinkles or bubbles with your hand.
- Trim off any excess fabric.
- Repeat this process on the opposite end and both sides, and let the picture frame dry for a few hours.
- Cut along the lines of the "X" on the frame's interior.
- Then working one side at a time, place a thin layer of glue along the inside edge and fold your fabric over. (You may want to trim your fabric first to avoid excess fabric).
- Repeat this process on all four sides.
Adding artwork to your frames
Now that your beautiful covered frames are complete, you can create your personal touch by adding photos, fabric, or printable artwork to your frames. Get creative and make your wall art the perfect fit for your home.
I chose to mix things up and use all three types of art in my frames.
You can use a mat or leave the image alone in the frame without a mat. The choice is yours!
How do you display fabric on the wall?
There are many different ways to place a group of picture frames of different sizes and shapes on a wall to create a wall gallery. Here are a few suggestions:
- Arrange the frames in a grid. This is a classic way to arrange a gallery wall and a great way to create a sense of order and balance. To create a grid, measure the wall and divide it into equal sections. Then, place the frames in the center of each section. My friends @simply2moms have a great blog post on how to do this.
- Arrange the frames in a cluster. This is a more informal way to arrange a gallery wall and a great way to create a sense of intimacy. Group a few frames of different sizes and shapes to create a cluster. You can place the cluster in the center of the wall, or you can place it in a corner.
- Arrange the frames in a random pattern. This is the most creative way to arrange a gallery wall and a great way to express your style. Place the frames wherever you like on the wall to create a random pattern. There are no rules!
Wall gallery tips
No matter how you arrange your frames, take the time to measure and plan your placement carefully. This will help you to create a gallery wall that is both visually appealing and functional.
Here are some additional tips for placing a group of picture frames on a wall:
Our Favorite
Tips
- Consider the size and shape of the wall. The wall’s size and shape will affect how the frames look. For example, you can use larger frames if the wall is large. If the wall is small, you can use smaller frames
- Consider the size and shape of the frames. The frames’ size and shape will also affect how they look. For example, if you have a lot of small frames, you can cluster them together. If you have a few large frames, you can place them in the center of the wall.
- Consider the artwork in the frames. The artwork in the frames will also affect the way that they look. For example, if the artwork is all in the same color scheme, you can arrange the frames in a grid. You can arrange the frames in a random pattern if the artwork has different colors.
- Experiment with different arrangements. There is no right or wrong way to arrange a gallery wall. The best way to find the right arrangement is to experiment with different possibilities.
Other types of DIY Wall art projects
Here are a few other easy fabric wall art ideas to jazz up a boring wall.
Fabric-Covered Canvas:
- Choose a canvas of any size you prefer, depending on the wall space you want to fill.
- Select a piece of fabric with a pattern or design that complements your home’s decor.
- Lay the fabric on a clean, flat surface, and place the canvas face down on top of it.
- Wrap the fabric around the canvas, ensuring it is taut and smooth, like wrapping a gift.
- Use a staple gun or adhesive to secure the fabric to the back of the canvas.
- Trim any excess fabric to achieve a neat finish.
- Hang the fabric-covered canvas on the wall to add a splash of color and texture to your space.
My girlfriend Missy @sonatahomedesign even turned a tablecloth into art.
Fabric DIY Wall Hangings:
- Choose a wooden dowel or curtain rod as the base for your fabric wall hanging.
- Cut a piece of fabric to your desired length and width, ensuring it’s long enough to cover the dowel/rod and create a drape.
- Hem the top edge of the fabric to create a sleeve for the dowel/rod to pass through.
- Optionally, you can add fringe, tassels, or other decorative elements to the bottom edge of the fabric.
- Insert the dowel or rod through the sleeve at the top of the fabric.
- Suspend the wall hanging from a hook or nail on the wall, and adjust the fabric’s position for the desired look.
Wrap Up
Now it’s time to move on to Regina’s blog @savedfromsalvage. I promise you will love what she created with an old pillow.
DIY fabric wall art is a great way to add a touch of personality and style to your home. It is also a relatively inexpensive and easy project you can do yourself. It is a great way to add a pop of color, a touch of pattern, or a personal touch to your walls.
Such a cool idea, Wendy!! The fabric you chose to use is so pretty and those bird prints are amazing. What a neat project to use old frames for!
Your corner trick is blowing my mind! I am saving this for my next project! Thank you for sharing!
Also, I hunt thrifted clothing for projects all the time too. It’s so much fun!
Thank you Amy. The corner trick is life-changing…. :)))
Wendy!!! That is Masterclass level (the best, clearest tutorial) for how to cover a frame with fabric for professional results.
Your fabric choices are so gutsy and perfect!! Love it all!
Thank you Diane. I wanted to step out of the box a little bit and jazz up my office wall.
wow, what a great tutorial! Love the fabric designs and combinations. Pinned!
Thank you, Debra. I need to go back and make a few adjustments to the post. It was a whirlwind when I was writing it. I am sure you know how that goes.
Super cute idea. I love the fabrics that you chose.
Clever use of fabric! I’m sure you are still recovering from Haven…hope it was a good trip!
Yes, I am. It always seems to take a few days to get back in the groove.
Wendy,
I am in awe of your creativity! Every time I visit your blog I find something new to make. I am not a crafty but I think I can do this project!
Thank you for the detailed instructions!
Thank you so much, Elizabeth. You are so kind. These frames are really easy to make and add so much to a plain wall space. I hope you give them a try.
Wendy, you write the most amazing posts. You leave nothing for us to have figure out on our own. So complete. I love that it’s a picture of your mom and that you used a dress for the material. Clever and beautiful and usual. Great job.
Thank you, Regina. It started out as one frame and morphed into an entire collection.
I love all of the different fabrics that you used for this clever project. And the photo of your mother is just the best! Thanks for another great Handcrafted Society month! (and thank you for sharing my tablecloth wall art project!) Can’t wait for next month!
I’m in love with your fabric covered frames, and what a statement they make when turned into a gallery art display. Great tips on how to make them look so professional Wendy! Pinning!
Thank you Michelle. It was a fun project that started out small and grew, LOL. One on the wall was not going to cut it. Thank you for pinning it.
I love this idea Wendy! When we were clearing out my husband’s parents’ home, he mentioned he recalled his father wearing a plaid leisure suit from the 70’s (not the typical colors of the 70’s which I was happy about). I grabbed it since I wanted to do something with it and give it to him as a gift. I am thinking black and white’s, and perhaps using your idea here would be the perfect marriage of items. Thank you for sharing! I love when I can reuse something we already have, plus I am so sentimental that I love to use items with meaning to us around our home.
Hi Cara, I must first tell you how much I appreciate your comments. You are ALWAYS so sincere, and your messages are indeed from your heart.
This could be the perfect answer to creating a gift for your husband. The picture in my frame is of my mother when she was young.
I think this is the perfect answer. I found the frames easy to cover and a fun way to add some pizazz to my wall. I can’t wait to see what you
create. Let me know if you have any questions. My husband said the directions were a bit complicated. But he is a man, LOL.
Thank you Wendy! I cannot be anyone but myself, it typically gets me into trouble, but oh well! You look just like your mother! I thought it may have been a photo of you enhanced with a vintage look. I have been sifting through all sorts of photos from the past recently while getting my grandmother’s house ready to sell. So many memories have flooded through my mind, since so much of my childhood was spent visiting with them. I have wanted to create a gallery wall since we purchased our home at the top of the steps, but I cannot seem to find the time to devote to figuring out placement, collecting frames, deciding which photos to hang, it’s a lot of work and thought that goes into it. I am hoping life will slow down a bit so I can take the time to make it happen. I cannot remember if I took the jacket only, or if I threw in the pants too. I would think the pants would be perfect for cutting to go around the frame, but maybe not now that I work through it in my mind, lol! Have a wonderful week!
Just so know, being yourself is the best way to be. Your true personality shines through your words, and I love reading every one of them.
We were in San Jose for a few days helping some friends get some painting done, so I am late at replying to comments. Sometimes, you just need to step away and be in the moment with those that you love. I hope you can find some time to get your gallery wall done, I know you would be so happy once you do it. Start with just a few frames, like 3 or five and then you can add to them. That way, it does not feel to over whelming.
Wendy I adore this project! The fabrics you chose are all so pretty. I want to try this now:)
Thank you, Missy. It started out with just a picture of my mom, and the project morphed. LOL
Thank you, Kelly. They are super easy to make and add great color to a blank wall. Thanks for stopping by.