Sometimes, we're faced with a dilemma of a sad, blank wall that we can't paint. Maybe your rental landlord won't allow painting, or maybe you just don't have the time, budget, or energy for a repainting job. Don't give up on your decor dreams just yet! You can definitely still add color and character to a wall without painting. Here are some fab ideas to try!

 

1. Cover it with contact paper.

Some people opt for wallpaper to decorate their walls, but even wallpaper can be expensive. Contact paper is a cheaper alternative that's also more removable -- perfect if you're not ready for long-term commitment! The best part is, contact paper comes in so many colors and patterns that are just as beautiful as luxe wallpapers.

 

2. Hang a photo gallery.

Gallery walls are a well-loved method to spruce up a room, and they're a fun way to display all your favorite pictures and artworks. You can experiment with various layouts, or you can arrange your pictures in a neat grid. In our example above, family photos are combined into one printed artwork. This piece is available for you to customize on Gear Den!

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "This Is Us" With Photos Premium Canvas

 

3. Display large-scale wall art.

On the opposite end of the wall-art spectrum, instead of displaying several pieces, you can spotlight just one big artwork. It's an elegant way to decorate, filling the wall with interest without so much of the visual clutter. Remember, a large wall art will easily become the focal point of the room and can dictate the mood of the space, so choose one you really love.

Read more tips on hanging large-scale artworks here!

Wall art pictured above: Personalized Family Names On Tree - Premium Canvas V2

 

4. Add fake texture.

Some of the most stylish walls are those with textural details. Thankfully, you don't need any remodeling to get the look. There are so many non-permanent options today to emulate a textured wall: sticker tiles, faux wood panels, even peel-and-stick bricks!

You can apply these to one whole wall to serve as your accent wall (like above), or you can create false molding or wainscoting down the bottom (like below).

Wall art pictured above: Personalized "Love Makes A House A Home" Names On Heart Premium Canvas

 

Wall art pictured above: "The Best Things - People, Places, Memories" Premium Canvas

 

5. Create a picture ledge.

So you have too many wall pictures that you want to display, and there's not enough wall room for a gallery! A picture ledge just might be your best friend. It's a simple ledge on the wall where you can easily lean your artworks, overlap them, and even rotate the selection from time to time. The example above was crafted by savvy DIY-er Angela Rose for only $10!

 

6. Showcase with a shelf (or table).

Leaning artworks instead of hanging them is such an effortless yet stylish display method. Plus, it's a great option if you're not even allowed to drill or hammer nails into your wall. Do our easy, foolproof formula: push a console table or buffet against a wall, lean a medium- or large-size artwork on it, then complement with smaller vases or tchotchkes. Voila -- instant style!

Wall art pictured above: Personalized Rustic "Family Name" Premium Canvas

 

7. Hang plants (or grow them tall!).

Indoor plants not only improve air quality, they also add dimension and life to a bare space. Consider hanging cute greenery at various heights (like above), or if hanging isn't possible, bring in a few potted plants that grow tall and lush (like below). And if you don't think you have a green thumb, don't worry -- a quick Google search of low-maintenance houseplants will give you tons of doable ideas.

 

8. Add pretty curtains.

Curtains can have a two-fold effect: they add much-needed color, and they give the room a layered look that's more interesting than with flat, barren walls. If none of the seven previous tips appeal to you, then just give your space some fun window treatment. Pick curtains in a contrasting color or with a pretty pattern, and watch the room come to life.

 

We hope these wall decor tips are helpful to you! Which idea would you do in your own home? Share with us in a comment!

For more of the wall art pieces featured here, browse GearDen.com. We have a wide variety of ready-to-hang canvas prints with customizable options. Check them out!