A row of three square canvases is the easiest gallery wall to get right. The shape is symmetrical, the spacing is forgiving, and it works above a sofa, a bed or a desk. Here is the method we use for our own photos.
1. Pick the height
Hang the centre of the row at about 57 to 60 inches (145 to 150 cm) from the floor. That is roughly eye level and the height most galleries use. If the row sits above furniture, leave 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) between the furniture and the bottom edge of the canvases, and let the row go a little higher than 60 inches if needed.
2. Pick the spacing
Leave 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) between canvases. Closer than that and the three pieces start to read as one block; wider and they look like three separate decisions. Keep every gap identical.
3. Pick the size
The whole row should be about two thirds to three quarters as wide as the furniture beneath it. For three 12 x 12 inch canvases with 2.5 inch gaps, the row is about 41 inches wide, which suits a desk or a twin bed. Three 16 x 16 canvases make a row of roughly 53 inches, a good match for a double bed or a small sofa. Three 20 x 20 canvases give about 65 inches, which suits a three-seat sofa. See our canvas size guide for the full list.
4. Hang the middle one first
- Mark the centre point on the wall and hang the middle canvas at your chosen height.
- Cut a strip of paper to the width of one gap (for example 2.5 inches) and use it as a spacer.
- Hang the left and right canvases against the spacer, checking each with a level.
Because the canvases arrive with back hanging included, you only need a nail or screw per canvas. Use wall anchors if you are not hanging into a stud.
Want a set that already works together? Our two trios are chosen to hang as a row: Statue of Liberty, Big Ben and Eiffel Tower, or Legendary Sword, Enchanted Pickaxe and Potion. On Etsy, buying the three of a trio together takes 15% off.
