Common Mistakes When Buying Art for Your Home (And How to Avoid Them!)
Buying art is my favorite way to bring personality into my home. But with so many options and styles, it can feel overwhelming. Personally, I’m drawn to everything from western landscapes to vintage signage to editorial portraits and so much more. The world of art is so diverse and there is a piece out there that is perfect for your home.
To help you confidently select the right pieces for your space, here are some common pitfalls to avoid!
Mistake #1: Buying the Wrong Size
It’s easy to fall in love with a piece of art, only to realize it doesn’t quite fit your space—literally.
Trust me, I’m the number one offender of buying art that is way too big or way too small.
A piece that’s too small can get lost on a large wall, while something too large might throw off the balance.
Tips to Avoid Buying the Wrong Size Art:
Measure your wall space before you shop.
A good rule of thumb is that your art should take up 60-75% of the wall area above furniture like a sofa or console table.
Mock up the size using painter’s tape or paper cutouts to visualize how it will look in your space.
Mistake #2: Skipping Personal Connection
Art isn’t just decoration; it’s a reflection of your personality and values. Buying art solely because it’s trendy will leave your space feeling impersonal.
When I see a trendy piece of wall art for super cheap in a discount store, it’s tempting to snatch it up. I’m especially drawn to pieces with cowgirl boots, hats, horseshoes, etc. Because, as you know by now, I love to bring the spirit of the American West into my home.
However, nearly every time I succumb to the cheaply reproduced art, I end up putting it in a closet or my storage shed to collect dust. I just don’t connect with it in the same way that I do my thoughtfully curated pieces collected over the years.
Imagine–a sparkly pink cowboy hat poster or a fine art print of a red canyon wall set against a turquoise sky outside of Taos, New Mexico. The latter is definitely more authentic to me.
How to Avoid It:
Choose pieces that evoke emotion or remind you of a special memory.
Don’t be afraid to mix styles or colors if the art resonates with you.
A personal connection to your art will make your space feel uniquely yours.
Mistake #3: Ignoring the Room’s Vibe
Each room in your home has a purpose and a mood. The art you choose should complement that energy rather than clash with it.
For example, a loud, abstract piece might feel out of place in a bedroom that’s supposed to be a place of rest.
I talk about this extensively in my recent blog, What Does Large-Scale Art Do for Your Space?
How to Avoid It:
Think about the mood you want to create in the room. Relaxing? Energizing? Sophisticated?
Select art that aligns with that vibe, whether it’s calming botanicals, contemporary art, or inspiring landscapes.
Mistake #4: Not Considering Placement
Where and how you hang your art matters. Hanging it too high, too low, or in an awkward spot can throw off the balance of a room and make the art less impactful.
How to Avoid It:
Center your art at eye level, which is generally 57-60 inches from the floor.
For pieces above furniture, leave about 6-8 inches of space between the bottom of the frame and the top of the furniture for a cohesive look.
Mistake #5: Overlooking Framing and Presentation
The frame you choose can make or break the overall presentation of your art. A mismatched or cheap frame can detract from the beauty of the piece.
How to Avoid It:
Invest in high-quality frames that complement the art and your decor.
Shop second-hand stores, estate sales, garage sales, and Facebook marketplace for quality frames at affordable prices.
For a modern look, consider frameless canvas prints or minimalist frames.
For a traditional style, opt for ornate frames with depth.
Look at decor aesthetics on Pinterest, and pay attention to what types of frames are in use to curate different interiors.
Mistake #6: Not Thinking Long-Term
Trends come and go, but art is an investment. Choosing a piece just because it’s popular right now might lead to regret later.
How to Avoid It:
Select timeless art pieces that you love and won’t tire of over the years.
Curate art that will mature with you.
If you’re unsure about committing to a bold style, start with smaller prints or pieces you can easily rotate in and out of your space(s).
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these common mistakes and approaching your art purchases with intention, you’ll create a space that’s not only beautiful but also meaningful to you. Your home will begin to feel like an extension of your heart, and what is more calming than feeling truly at home within yourself and your space?
