If you’re a parent, chances are you’ve been handed countless masterpieces by your little Picasso. From finger-painted landscapes to crayon-colored portraits of the family, each creation holds a special meaning. But as the pile of artwork grows taller, finding ways to display these treasures can feel overwhelming. Leaving them tucked away in a drawer or cluttering the fridge doesn’t do justice to your child’s creativity.
The good news is that there are plenty of creative ways to show off your kids’ artwork while adding personality to your home. By displaying their pieces in thoughtful and inventive ways, you’re not only boosting their confidence but also turning your home into a vibrant, living gallery of family memories. Below, we’ll explore fun, practical, and stylish methods to showcase your children’s work without it feeling overwhelming or disorganized.
Pick the Perfect Spot
The first step in turning your child’s artwork into a part of your home décor is choosing where to display it. Consider spaces like the kitchen, hallway, or your child’s room. Spots with high traffic, such as living rooms or entryways, are also great because everyone can admire the display.
1. Rotate Framed Artwork in a Gallery Wall
A gallery wall can transform any empty wall into an eye-catching statement piece. Use frames of different sizes for visual interest and choose simple designs to keep the focus on the art. Make sure to periodically swap out older pieces for new ones to keep the display fresh.
Tip: Pick frames with front-loading panels or hinges to make swapping art quick and easy.
2. Create an Art String Display
For a casual and laid-back vibe, consider setting up an art string. Attach twine or wire along the length of a wall and use clothespins, binder clips, or even colorful paperclips to hang the artwork. This setup allows you to add, move, or change pieces effortlessly.
3. Use a Corkboard or Magnetic Board
If you’re looking for a customizable solution, corkboards or magnetic boards are excellent options. Kids can help choose which pieces go up, and it’s easy to rearrange or replace one item at a time. This works particularly well in kids’ bedrooms or playrooms for a fun, interactive display.
Turn Kids’ Artwork Into Functional Items
Displaying art doesn’t have to be limited to walls. Consider these creative ideas to transform your child’s creations into practical items while ensuring their work gets plenty of love and attention.
1. Design a Custom Calendar
Gather 12 of your child’s best pieces and turn them into a custom calendar. You’ll have a different artwork to admire every month, and it’s a fun way to recycle their creations while keeping your home organized. Many online printing services make this simple and affordable.
2. Make Artwork Placemats
Laminate your child’s drawings to create durable placemats for your table. These not only brighten up mealtime but also spark conversations about their creative process. You can switch them out regularly to keep the table setting fresh.
3. Create Custom Pillows or Tote Bags
Select a few standout pieces and have them printed onto fabric for unique pillows, tote bags, or even T-shirts. These items are great for gifting to grandparents or other family members who’d love to show off their little artist’s work.
Incorporate Artwork Into Your Décor
Beyond functionality, your child’s artwork can also serve as stylish décor in its own right. With a little creativity, you can seamlessly incorporate it into your home’s aesthetic.
1. Make Oversized Canvas Prints
Take a photo or scan your child’s artwork and have it enlarged onto canvas prints. These oversized pieces can make a big statement in a living room or hallway and give their work a contemporary gallery feel.
2. Frame a Collage
Instead of framing individual pieces, take several smaller works and arrange them into a collage for one large frame. This method lets you display multiple pieces while keeping the look neat and cohesive.
3. Display Art on Shelves
Art doesn’t have to go on walls! Use floating shelves or bookcases to create a mini gallery. Prop up framed art alongside favorite books, toys, or plants to create a layered, curated appearance.
4. Use Clipboards as Frames
Hang clipboards on your walls and use them to hold different pieces of artwork. This makes it super simple to swap out old pieces for new ones, and the clipboards themselves become part of the design.
Organize Artwork for Easy Access
If you have more art than space, displaying everything at once may not be an option. Instead, create an organizational system that allows you to cycle through pieces over time.
1. Start a Portfolio or Binder
Use a large art portfolio case or three-ring binders with plastic sleeves to store older artwork. This not only keeps everything organized but also ensures your child’s early works are preserved for future memories.
2. Design an Art Book
Another fantastic way to store and display a larger collection is by creating a custom photo book. Take digital photos or scans of the artwork and compile them into a professionally printed book. These books are compact, stylish, and great for flipping through during family gatherings.
3. Create Seasonal Displays
Rotate your child’s art based on the season. For instance, showcase their holiday or winter-themed pieces during the colder months, and switch to bright, sunny creations for spring and summer. Seasonal displays keep things feeling fresh and relevant.
