5 Ways to Add Magic to Your Walls (Without a Paintbrush)
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At By The Bard, we believe your home should represent who you are, and your walls say more than you think. Whether you're a renter, redecorating or just a maximalist in denial, there are ways to make your space feel your own without breaking out the DIY tools (maybe just a hammer!). Here are five simple ideas to turn blank walls into something unapologetically you.
1. Frame Your Favourite Quotes
Typography prints are one of the easiest places to start, especially ones that speak to your soul. Whether it's a quote from your favourite movie, a moving song lyric or an inspirational affirmation, a single line can transform a hallway or reading nook into something profound.
Style tips: Choose colours and fonts that match your mood. If you're going for moody, mysterious, or romantic - think dark serif fonts, gold flourishes, or soft parchment textures.
Try placing a quote above a bookshelf, beside a mirror, or layered with smaller prints for a gallery wall that feels personal and curated.
Shop the vibe: Our "We Are Such Stuff as Dreams Are Made On" print blends Shakespearean wisdom with a celestial design. The soft pinks and blues, and gilded lettering are perfect for adding a calm, dreamy energy to your space
2. Curate a Mini Gallery Wall.
Gallery walls are the quickest way to turn a blank space into a story. Mix sizes, themes, colours, and frame styles to create a unique narrative. You're the artist and the wall is your canvas!
Style tips: Before you hang anything, lay your chosen prints on the floor or use paper templates on the wall to play around with the arrangement. Try spacing them evenly for structure, or cluster them closer together for an intimate, curated feel.
Incorporate pieces like mirrors, postcards or pressed flowers alongside your art prints to create texture and dimension. You’re not just decorating, you're creating a 3d mood board!
Having trouble deciding on a colour palette to match your space? Try sites like Coolors. It's a quick and easy way to get inspired and generate beautifully matching colour palettes.
3. Add Personality with Animal-Inspired Prints
From quirky cats to cute bunnies, animal-themed wall art adds charm that instantly livens up any space. These prints do more than just decorate - they spark joy, and reflect personality (whether it’s yours or your pet’s). Animal artwork pairs beautifully with a wide range of decor styles, from cosy cottagecore to modern boho. Whether you choose something whimsical or just flat-out cute, animal prints make your space feel more alive and expressive.
Style tips: Choose animals that represent you or the room's vibe - a wise owl for an office, a cat for cosy corners, or a fox for a touch of playfulness. It adds meaning beyond aesthetics.
No need for nails — these damage-free Command strips keep walls renter-friendly and make it easy to swap prints and keep things fresh.
Shop the vibe: Our "Peek A Boo Cat" print is a cheeky little charmer, perfect for anyone who wants to add a bit of playfulness to their space. It’s bold, mischievous, and effortlessly cute, just like the cat in your life.
4. Bring the Outdoors Indoors
Not everyone can grow a jungle indoors, but you can still create a natural feel. Botanical illustrations, floral drawings, or prints inspired by herbs, forests, or wildflowers can soften modern interiors or enhance a cosy, vintage feel. They bring organic shapes and earthy tones into your space, reminding you to slow down and breathe, even in the middle of a busy day.
Style Tip: Hang botanical prints above shelves with real or faux plants for an organic, layered look.
You can also add natural textures like oven baskets, wooden shelves, or stoneware vases to the area around your print. The contrast between soft paper and earty materials makes your are pop and feel more alive.
Shop the vibe: Our "Botanical Watercolour Freesia" brings a fresh, romantic energy to any space. It’s the perfect piece to anchor a nature-inspired corner, especially when paired with fresh blooms or vintage glassware.
5. Add Some Glow with Golden or Starry Elements
Prints that incorporate gold tones, constellations, or celestial imagery bring a gentle sparkle and a sense of wonder, especially in evening light. These designs interact beautifully with ambient light, creating a sense of enchantment. It’s an easy way to turn a quiet corner into a place to unwind, reflect, or just stare dreamily into space.
Style Tip: Frame starry or metallic-accented prints near warm lighting. Think fairy lights, LEDs, or a nearby candle. The gentle illumination will highlight the metallic tones, enhancing their magic after dark. We love these lights for a celestial vibe.
Pair your starry print with a candle, a small dish of crystals or incense, and a journal or tarot deck for a mini altar or meditation nook that feels uniquely yours.
Ready to begin?
For more ideas, explore our full collection of whimsical, story-rich prints here, and start turning your space into something truly magical. Have fun!
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