5 Easy Do It Yourself Wall Art Ideas That Will Make Your Concrete Walls Pop

Wanting to make your blank concrete walls the talk of Instagram? I've got the scoop on five fantastic DIY wall art ideas—anyone can do it—and printable art is my ultimate game-changer. Let me share what I have learned from years of trying out different techniques.

1. Printable Wall Art – The Savvy Decorator's Secret

Printable wall art has revolutionized the way we decorate, and here's why I am obsessive about it: first, you get access to thousands of professional designs for a fraction of what traditional art would cost. Decorating my entire living room with downloadable prints recently set me back less than $30! Even better, you can try out the styles without risk and change them with the seasons to keep your style fresh without breaking the bank.

I just follow my tried-and-true process: pick high-quality paper (at least 220gsm), print at your local print shop (they usually have really great deals), and then use simple frames to achieve that gallery look. I have found that black and white prints work exceptionally well on concrete walls, creating a stunning contrast that makes the space feel more sophisticated.

2. Color Blocking on Canvas

If you want something more hands-on, get a blank canvas, painter's tape, and your favorite colors of paint. I have made beautiful geometric patterns with just these essentials. The key is pre-planning your design and making sure the lines are crisp, by taking the tape off while the paint is still slightly wet. My latest triptych series was made for under $40 and would look good in any top gallery!

3. Large Photo Prints

You can change your favorite pictures into statement pieces by getting them printed in large format. The concrete background, as a matter of fact, complements such pieces, especially when you print the pictures in black and white. I have found that family pictures have a certain striking quality about them when printed this way; it makes it feel very personal, something that bought art just can't replicate.

4. Paper Geometric Art

You can make fantastic 3D effects using only colored paper and simple frames to give depth to solid walls. The key is to stick to colors that blend with the environment while making straightforward repeating patterns. This is especially good in a home office or modern living room.

5. Tapestries of Threads

Improve texture in your concrete walls with some elegantly woven creations. With a wooden dowel and a selection of yarns, you can make beautiful textural pieces that will gently neutralize the cold industrial feel of concrete. Plus, they help with acoustics—a wonderful side effect when working with concrete!

Why Printable Art Is Your Most Cherished Companion
Let me explain why printable art is my go-to solution for concrete walls. Unlike traditional art, with printable art, you can play around with different sizes before printing something huge. Found a design you love? Test print it small first, then go big if it works. This has saved me so many times from expensive mistakes.

Printable art, in particular, takes care of that sometimes tricky task: finding art that fits perfectly within your color scheme. Many artists do customization, so you can even request specific colors to match your decor. I once put together an entire gallery wall with printable art in just the right blues to complement my sofa—good luck trying to do that with regular art!

Common Errors to Watch For Making a few mistakes along the way, I learned some very important lessons: never skip measuring and planning—I once bought frames that were too small and had to return all of it. Always use proper concrete anchors; regular nails just won't do. And probably most importantly, consider your lighting—I have found printable art looks best when you plan for even lighting across the piece.

FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Q: What is the best paper for printable wall art?

For best results, use premium photo paper or art paper with at least 220gsm weight. I prefer matte finish for most designs because it reduces glare, especially on concrete walls.

Q: How can I make my DIY art look professional?

It's all in the presentation. Clean-lined frames, perfect spacing (I use a cardboard template), and always eye-level hanging will do the trick. The finishing touches are what make professional-looking art.

Q: Can I mix different styles of DIY art on one wall?

Yes! The trick is finding something in common—be it the color palette, the frame shape, or the theme. I was able to mix printable art with woven pieces by having all the frames black and keeping the spacing the same.

Last Words Sprucing up your concrete walls doesn't have to be an expensive or difficult task. Begin with printable art to help build up your confidence, and as you find your style, don't be afraid to try the other methods. The great thing about DIY is that you can always change things if they don't come out exactly how you planned them to.

*Pro Tip: Take a picture of your wall before starting any project. It's so satisfying seeing the change, and it really helps you visualize future changes!*