Creating a Stairway Photo Gallery

Personalize your space by creating a family photo gallery.  Hall and stairways  are particularly good places to hang family photos because everyone will have the opportunity to enjoy the montage as they move through the space, but personal images are kept from being too much in public view.

Here are a few simple steps to create your own:

• For an eclectic, yet cohesive, look choose an array of frames in the same color range, unifying them with the same color mat.
• For a more traditional look, choose identical color and style frames in different sizes.
• For a graphic effect, use only black & white images or visit a copy center and change favorite color snapshots to black & white.
• Choose three equal-size frames in the center to establish a focal point. Add rows, grouping pictures an inch or two apart to form a square or rectangle
• Get a more luxurious look by using double mat or special fillets to set off each image.

To hang your display, lay all of the framed photos on a table or floor in an area that is about the size of your wall space. Rework the arrangement until you are satisfied. Trace and cut out paper in the shape of each frame these up on the wall before installing nails or picture hooks. 

For additional options visit: http://www.potterybarn.com/stylehouse/decorate/mem_wall/index.cfm?cm_type=snav and download free wall templates.  

Don't get discouraged! Creating a beautiful photo gallery will take time and effort, but the results will be something you can be proud of!