25 Genius Wall Art Ideas that Look Expensive (But Aren’t)
Wall art can make or break the feel of a room.
But let’s face it—some pieces can cost a small fortune.
What if we told you that you can achieve that designer look without the designer price tag? In this article, we’ll explore various types of wall art, offer tips on how to find budget-friendly options that look expensive, and show you how to style your home like a pro without breaking the bank.
Framed Prints: Affordable Luxury Wall Art
Framed prints are a classic way to add sophistication to any space. While high-end prints can be quite pricey, you can find similar options for a fraction of the cost by searching for prints from lesser-known artists or going digital. Many online stores offer high-quality prints that can be professionally framed, giving the illusion of luxury.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Look for digital download options or affordable prints on sites like Etsy, Society6, or even eBay. Print the artwork on high-quality paper and invest in a well-made frame to elevate the piece.
Pro Tip: If you want to do an extra large print, I would recommend using an online printer (versus going to a local copy shop). The online printers can be very inexpensive and usually create a quality print for you!
Picture This: A luxurious living room with a large framed print above the couch, featuring a modern abstract painting. The frame is matte black with a clean, sleek design. The print feels sophisticated but still affordable, with the artwork being bold and statement-making.
Large Canvas Art: Big Impact on a Budget
Canvas prints are another great option to add drama to your walls. They can give the look of an original painting without the hefty price. The texture of a canvas print also adds an artistic, hand-crafted feel that elevates any space.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Choose canvas prints from online retailers like Amazon, Walmart, or Overstock. Opt for abstract designs or landscapes, which often look more expensive than they really are. Keep an eye on sales and clearance sections to find discounted pieces.
Pro Tip:
If you find a canvas painting at a yard sale or thrift store for a few bucks, you can can EASILY paint over it and add a simple abstract design like the one in the photo above.
I am definitely not an artist, but I’ve done this several times and they are some of my favorite pieces. And the best part – if I get tired of it, I can just paint over and create another masterpiece!
Vintage-Inspired Wall Art: Old World Charm for Less
Vintage and antique-inspired artwork can bring an elegant, timeless touch to your home. However, original vintage pieces can be prohibitively expensive. The good news is, there are plenty of affordable alternatives that replicate the look of vintage art.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Shop for vintage-style prints or reproduction artwork. Thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales are goldmines for finding art that has a vintage vibe. You can also find vintage-style artwork online, often at a fraction of the cost of the original piece.
Pro TIp: If you aren’t loving some of the vintage artwork you find, but you like the frame, still grab it! You can easily create your own painting and pop it in the frame. Or just hang the empty frame on the wall – sometimes they are artwork in themselves!
Picture This: A vintage-inspired entryway featuring an antique-style portrait painting in a distressed gold frame. The muted colors and soft brushstrokes of the painting give it a worn, nostalgic feel, while the frame adds elegance and sophistication.
Abstract Art: Sophisticated Simplicity
Abstract art is often synonymous with high-end design, but it doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Simple shapes and minimalist designs can be just as impactful as expensive, intricate pieces.
How to Get It for Cheap: Look for affordable abstract art prints or even create your own. Minimalist designs are especially easy to replicate with basic painting supplies, such as canvases, paint, and brushes. Plus, abstract art looks stunning in modern spaces.
Here’s another example – you know you could paint this yourself, right?
Photography Wall Art: Capture Moments with Elegance
Photographs can look surprisingly expensive when done well, especially black and white photography or nature-inspired prints. A high-quality photo can become the focal point of any room, adding a personal and unique touch.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Browse websites like Unsplash or Pexels for high-quality, royalty-free photos. You can have them printed at an online print shop in larger sizes and framed professionally for a polished, gallery-like feel. If you want to save a bit more money, just look for some large frames at Target, Walmart, or Hobby Lobby.
Look at these!
After spending less than 5 minutes on Unsplash, I found these really cool images that would look great framed on your wall!
PRO TIP: If you find an image you really like on Pexels or Unsplash, click on the artist or photographer name to see if they have any other similar photographs that you could use as part of your new art collection.
Gallery Walls: Display Multiple Pieces of Affordable Artwork
A gallery wall is a great way to showcase several pieces of art and create an elegant, curated look. You can use a mix of different styles—abstract, vintage, and modern art—to add depth and interest without breaking the bank.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Mix affordable prints, vintage finds, and personal photos. Frame inexpensive art from thrift stores, online print shops, or create your own pieces to add variety and richness to the wall.
PRO TIP: For this affordable gallery wall art collection, you can just use a combination of all the things we covered. Make it your own and don’t be afraid of putting it all on the wall! Just hang the frames in a way that’s pleasing to you and then you can always swap out the artwork if you find cheap (or free) wall art you like more.
DIY Wall Art: Your Personal Touch
If you’re feeling creative, DIY art is a fantastic way to add expensive-looking pieces to your home without spending a lot. From painting to fabric art, creating your own wall decor can be both fun and budget-friendly.
How to Get It for Cheap: Use inexpensive materials such as canvas, fabric, and paint. You can recreate art from your favorite artists or take inspiration from high-end pieces. Plus, DIY art gives your space a personal touch that no store-bought art can replicate.
Another DIY Wall Art Option
If you have some paper, scissors and glue, you can make some AMAZING collage art for your living room or bedroom. I started doing this about 3 years ago and it was not only fun, it’s was really relaxing.
I’ll share some of my work in a separate post but in the meantime, here are a few examples of some large wall art that you could EASILY creatte yourself. It’s DIY magic!
Metal and Wood Art: Industrial Chic on a Budget
Metal and wood art can add an industrial, chic touch to your home. High-end metal art can be pricey, but there are affordable alternatives that still provide that bold, modern look.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Look for affordable metal wall art on Etsy or local craft fairs. You can also consider mixing metal elements with reclaimed wood for a rustic, high-end look. DIY projects like wall sculptures or custom pieces can also bring down the cost.
Wall Tapestries: Soft, Affordable Boho Elegance
Wall tapestries are a beautiful way to add texture and depth to a room while keeping it affordable. From intricate designs to simple patterns, wall tapestries can mimic expensive textile art while still being budget-friendly.
How to Get It for Cheap:
Shop for woven or printed tapestries on sites like Urban Outfitters or Amazon. You can also find vintage-style tapestries at flea markets or thrift stores, often for a fraction of the price of new, high-end pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where can I find affordable artwork that looks expensive?
You can find affordable artwork in several places. Online platforms like Etsy, Society6, and Minted offer high-quality prints at budget-friendly prices. For vintage or antique-style pieces, check thrift stores, flea markets, and estate sales. Additionally, websites like Unsplash or Pexels offer free high-resolution images that you can print yourself.
2. How can I make inexpensive artwork look more expensive?
The key to making inexpensive artwork look expensive is all in the presentation. Invest in high-quality frames, ideally with a classic design in wood or metal finishes like gold or matte black. Additionally, opt for larger sizes or a gallery wall arrangement to create a curated, high-end look. Choosing artwork that complements your space and is well-lit also elevates its overall appeal.
3. Is it worth investing in original artwork?
Original artwork can certainly add a unique touch to your home, but it’s not always necessary. Affordable prints, DIY projects, or reproductions can look just as sophisticated, especially if you focus on the framing and presentation. If you have the budget for it, investing in one or two original pieces can definitely add a personalized, high-end touch to your space.
4. Can I create my own artwork to mimic expensive styles?
Absolutely! DIY art can mimic expensive styles with a little creativity. Abstract painting, minimalistic wall hangings, and even digital art can be recreated using inexpensive materials. You can paint on canvas, use fabric to make textured wall hangings, or create prints that mirror famous pieces. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a great way to personalize your space.
5. What types of art are considered timeless and sophisticated?
Timeless and sophisticated art often includes classic portraiture, botanical prints, vintage-inspired paintings, and abstract pieces in neutral or muted tones. Black and white photography is also a great choice for a sophisticated look. Choose art that aligns with your home’s decor and doesn’t feel too trendy to ensure it stays stylish for years.
6. How do I arrange multiple art pieces to make them look cohesive?
When creating a gallery wall, focus on a unifying theme, color palette, or frame style to tie everything together. Arrange the pieces at eye level and ensure the spacing between them is consistent. If you’re mixing different sizes, start with a central piece and build around it, balancing larger pieces with smaller ones to create visual interest.
Want to make your home look like it’s straight out of a design magazine? Check out these tips on how to find beautiful wall art that gives the impression of luxury, all without the high price tag. From framed prints to DIY art, we’ve got the budget-friendly secrets you need!
