by Cara
Any renter friendly wall decor ideas?
+74
I have this great blank canvas of a wall in my living room, but the landlord asked us not to paint or drill into the walls.
What are some good ideas to make the space more decorative without damaging the walls?
What are some good ideas to make the space more decorative without damaging the walls?
57 answers
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Hi Cara! That blank canvas of a wall makes me giddy with excitement! You could try a budget-friendly gallery wall, where instead of hanging pictures, you use washi tape to attach them to a wall. I recently published a tutorial on my profile, if you'd like to check it out. Another idea is to use removable wallpaper; it would add major personality to the room and wouldn't cause any damage! There are also lots of different decals on the market you could opt for instead, like these gold polka dots I used in one of my projects. Hope that helps; let us know what you decide to do with the space!
![Oksana Radionova]()
Oksana Radionova
on Jun 22, 2016
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Removable vinyl stick ons come in a huge variety of choices, including scenery shots from outside. Landlords love them.
![Odessa Graham]()
Odessa Graham
on Jun 22, 2016
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Cara, I have used quilt pins to hang pictures, fabric, etc. You don't need a hammer. This sounds dangerous but drag the pin gently through your scalp a bit. The oil will make for ease of insert. If it's a tough wall you may have hit a stud-move over a little and try again. I am talking light weight pix not real heavy ones of course. The quilt pins have nice little balls on them. Even push pins work, but i like the quilt pins. You can't see the pin point once removed, unless you are Sherlock Holmes.
![Conniehatfield3]()
Conniehatfield3
on Jun 22, 2016
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Three m makes commands hooks in all different sizes and weights.Once you choose your theme that would be the way to go as no damage will be done to the wall.
![Janet Pizaro]()
Janet Pizaro
on Jun 22, 2016
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You can hang material using a starch solution as the glue. The material is easily removable when you move. Just wash the starch off the wall and your good to go. Check Pinterest for a tutorial.
![Chris]()
Chris
on Jun 22, 2016
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A gallery wall using photos , framed typography or even mirrors would be a good use of space. This can be achieved without drilling or nails using a variety of non damaging renter friendly options... try 3M Command products, adhesives strips or velcro variety. You could also consider using a shallow profile standing open-bookshelf. Place it behind the sofa to add dimension to the room to showcase beloved trinkets with the added benefit of extra storage. Similarly, if the bookshelf is "too bulky," a entryway console table can easily fit behind the sofa and adorn it with leaning framed photos or oversized artwork.
![Ty]()
Ty
on Jun 22, 2016
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You could find a room divider and use it for background, or make a tall pseudo wall out of pallette boards and just tack it against the wall and decorate that.
![Marjo]()
Marjo
on Jun 22, 2016
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There r Great Wall designs for your walls that stick and just comes right off. They are moveable so you can create your own designs. Usually found in or around paint dept. hobby lobby has a great selection
![Brenda]()
Brenda
on Jun 22, 2016
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I use 3M Command hooks for everything even though I AM the landlord.
![Alice]()
Alice
on Jun 22, 2016
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Buy come canvases, make some abstract art and use command strips to hang em. Or wrap the canvases in some nice fabric and do the same thing. Its not expensive but looks like it and adds so much
![Matt]()
Matt
on Jun 22, 2016
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Amazon has many, many removal wall decals that are absolutely gorgeous and the designs are endless. The cost is not bad at all and what a statement they can make!!!
![Deb Martin Knaff]()
Deb Martin Knaff
on Jun 22, 2016
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Hobby Lobby has beautiful posters and frames. If you check every week, you will be able to get them at 1/2 price. They are lightweight and can be hung with command picture strips. Just a few large posters can fill a wall for very little money.
![Debi53]()
Debi53
on Jun 22, 2016
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paneled screen
![Cass]()
Cass
on Jun 23, 2016
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I would definitely use the removable wall decals
![Carol]()
Carol
on Jun 23, 2016
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We just moved this winter, and purchased a lot of the 3m hooks. It all worked great until it started to get humid, pretty soon, we had things falling off the walls, left and right. The one thing that has worked is the velcro 3m strips. I'm sorry I don't have a awnser for you, I just wanted to save you money if you live where humidty is a factor!
![N.p1512937]()
N.p1512937
on Jun 23, 2016
- See 1 previous
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3 m hooks or Velcro strips
![Leisa Yeager]()
Leisa Yeager
on Jun 23, 2016
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Find a pattern on a cotton fabric and starch it to the wall. It just washed off afterwards
![Susan]()
Susan
on Jun 23, 2016
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Place a sofa table behind the couch and place framed photos, prop against the wall canvas artwork or a collection of your favorite items. Also, use a pattern or colored lampshade for the floor lamp and add some color with throw pillows.
![Inf4248723]()
Inf4248723
on Jun 23, 2016
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Landlords usually ask that you not put alot of holes.... but it is standard to have a few holes to hang a couple things. As long as you are allowed just a couple holes.... you could hang a long curtain rod near the top of the room and then hang multiple pictures from the rod :)
![C]()
C
on Jun 23, 2016
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- See 2 previous
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They make wallpaper now that is peel and stick. Then you just pull it off when you move, or you get tired of it.
![Maxine Waller]()
Maxine Waller
on Jun 23, 2016
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Use Command Strips. They will hold anything & they really do come off cleanly. There are different sizes to choose from.
![Lau6890171]()
Lau6890171
on Jun 23, 2016
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Could you static cling wall decorations. Gather a pair of sheer curtains on a light weight rod hung from Command strip hooks.
![Valerie]()
Valerie
on Jun 23, 2016
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Agree with Laugh54. Command hooks are very versatile and they do come off cleanly and easily.
![Donna]()
Donna
on Jun 23, 2016
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We were in an apt and I thumbtacked a blue and white plaid sheet that matched our bedspread on the wall. Looked pretty and was a breeze to take down.
![Jan Metzger Tolleson]()
Jan Metzger Tolleson
on Jun 23, 2016
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I agree with 'info', sofa table, lamp, picture frames with color family photos. You could use a couch cover to add color, also.
![Jeannie]()
Jeannie
on Jun 23, 2016
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a bunch of stacked wooden creates or a wall unit with cubicles works wonders. You can put in some nick knacks & books, or you can even use colored baskets in them to hide stuff & it looks great. Nice for extra storage.
![Dottie']()
Dottie'
on Jun 24, 2016
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3M makes hooks with removable sticky strips, those could be used to hang pictures. 20 years ago I saw a show where they took fabric, soaked it in fabric softener to use as a "glue" and suck it to the wall. When done, peel it off and use a damp sponge to wipe wall clean. You could build a skeleton frame out of 1x2 or 2x2 and hang wire down from top, just lean frame back at top so less likely chance of faux wall of falling over. Frame can have shelves built in to hold books or shadow boxes, vases, etc. Behind frame could be fabric stapled to backside or reclaimed wood.
![Rick Lester]()
Rick Lester
on Jun 24, 2016
- See 1 previous
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You can also hang light to medium weight pictures on straight pins stuck into the wall. They need to go in as far as possible. They are strong and hold well. When you take them out you won't see the pin hole that is left.
![Suzann]()
Suzann
on Jun 24, 2016
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There are also a number of removable decals and even wallpaper that you can get, which can easily be taken down later to be changed out or when you leave.
![Pat Kline]()
Pat Kline
on Jun 24, 2016
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Here is another idea, take some long boards, 1x8, add a base plate on the bottom, but a foot off nail/screw as base, paint or stain. Possibly use reclaim, find pallets too.
![Rick Lester]()
Rick Lester
on Jun 24, 2016
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Have you thought of fabric. Liquid starch will keep fabric on wall& is easy to remove. Soak the fabric in starch & smooth on wall.
![Nancy Smock Patriarco Smith]()
Nancy Smock Patriarco Smith
on Jun 24, 2016
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We are in the same position. a tri-fold screen can be so useful. My favourite is our photo screens. each panel consists of 5 photo frames one above the other . you can do this either with strips of wood and 8x10 glass, or be extra creative and use 2nd hand photo frames . the more eclectic the better. use piano hinges for the folds. Good luck
![Yvonne Thomsen]()
Yvonne Thomsen
on Jun 24, 2016
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I own my home but do not want to make holes. I purchased the command strips refills and command strips picture hanging strips They will hold pictures etc. I use them on any small or light things I want to hang. (the refill strips). Good Luck
![Debbie]()
Debbie
on Jun 25, 2016
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I use the colored tacks to hang things so I don't put big nail holes in walls
![Carolyn Noyer]()
Carolyn Noyer
on Jun 25, 2016
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You can hang a lot of things using double sided Velcro. It doesn't hurt the walls
![Marie]()
Marie
on Jun 25, 2016
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What about pulling the sofa out a bit and putting a very narrow table behind it, you could put lamps, stand artwork, photos, plants. There is a post on here of a table they built themselves, very simple, as tall as the sofa and as long. I will try to find it and get it to you.
![Lori]()
Lori
on Jun 25, 2016
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Found it: http://alwaysneverdone.com/2015/02/25-sofa-table-tutorial/ There are a few ideas if you just search DIY sofa tables
![Lori]()
Lori
on Jun 25, 2016
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glad to help. It really is a great way to decorate space & have it functional too.
![Dottie']()
Dottie'
on Jun 25, 2016
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Pull the sofa away from the wall. Add a sturdy sofa table behind it. Prop up a mirror or favorite piece of art on the table. Make sure the table is long enough to add a lamp or two on either side of the mirror or art.
![Nancy]()
Nancy
on Jun 30, 2016
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You can buy hangers that are removable with just a tug and a friend who used them said they really work. Wall decals are available in a variety of sizes and themes. Temporary wallpaper is another option although I believe it's rather pricey. Adding all the usual items to the room...lamps, tables, area rugs, and decorative pieces...will help but you'll still need something on the wall in the photo. Since you have a neutral sofa you get to pick your favorite colors. Have fun!
![Suellen Hintz]()
Suellen Hintz
on Jul 02, 2016
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You could put a narrow 8' or 6' frame behind the sofa and hang pictures from it. Put a narrow shelf just a little higher than the sofa and lean pictures on it. Like a giant shadow box.
![Grandmasue10]()
Grandmasue10
on Jul 04, 2016
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Use Command strips/hooks etc. They come in various sizes that will hold varying weights and leave no residue, marks or holes in the wall. Another idea....removable Contact paper.... or removable wallpaper. Google those ideas.
![CK]()
CK
on Jul 05, 2016
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.
![KellySmith]()
KellySmith
on Jul 29, 2016
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![Drwoofx]()
Drwoofx
on Dec 23, 2016
You can "wallpaper" by soaking fabric in liquid starch and applying to the wall just like wallpaper. When it's time to move, dampen it, pull it off, toss in the washer and dryer and take it with you. Also works for the backs of bookcases. I've never tried it but saw it on a decorating show.- See 2 previous
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Removable wall paper or use the trick mentioned above. Fabric soaked in a water and starch mix.....Also pull the couch out and add in a long side table....Or even a hutch......Use Command strips to hang other items..Mirrors, paintings etc......Have fun!
![One8414992]()
One8414992
on Dec 23, 2016
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![Tresha Armstrong]()
Tresha Armstrong
on Dec 29, 2016
I have a simple and inexpensive way to make your wall look fabulous!! Any you don't have to put any holes on your wall either. Here's the video on it... https://youtu.be/pKLd__oBDNA- See 2 previous
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![Deanna Nassar]()
Deanna Nassar
on Jan 01, 2017
Command hooks are great. If you must use nails use smallest/thinnest that will do the job. When you move use small amount of white toothpaste or glue to fill in hole. -
![Reblcant]()
Reblcant
on Jan 07, 2017
Command hooks on PAINTED walls are easily removed without damage. Large print or three narrow prints behind sofa. Put a tree in the corner and place an up light behind it focusing upward through the tree. Will give a nice pattern on wall when lit -
![Grandmasue10]()
Grandmasue10
on Jan 09, 2017
I saw a rolling bookcase on Pinterest. It had smaller spaces like cubbies. -
![Fred W Renon]()
Fred W Renon
on Jan 16, 2017
Try going online for stick on wall Decorations. They are peel and stick. They come in different sizes and different designs. -
![Joan]()
Joan
on Jan 20, 2017
https://www.fathead.com/Fathead.com has lots of stick on and removable sports, entertainment, and you can even customize your own! -
![Mary]()
Mary
on Jan 23, 2017
I would build a large shelving unit behind the couch and the past the length. Make the shelves at the back of the couch wider for lamps or decorations. You can hang pictures on the front of the shelves. Using the lower shelving behind the couch for extra storage. Books and small plants or keepsakes displayed on the shelves. Home depot or lowe's will cut the lower shelving to size out of some cabinet plywood and 1 x 12 can be bought at what ever length. Paint or stain your color. Screw this all together so you take it with you. The lower wider base will help make it stronger and steadier -
![Judy Ritchie]()
Judy Ritchie
on Jan 24, 2017
Not sure about the fabric & starch, as I have never tried it. I have hung fabrics by stapling it. Just get a pretty sheet, fabric, or fabric shower curtain. I used an office stapler to hang a colorful sheet on the wall next to bunk beds when my sons were young. when the sheet got dirty, I took it off, washed &dried it, then rehung it. When hanging it is easier with a "third hand" but you can do by your self. -
![Lisa Coffey]()
Lisa Coffey
on Jan 28, 2017
My mom decorated her whole sewing room about 20 years ago this way and it worked great. I think it was even easier than actual wall paper.Thankshttp://qwikfix.co.uk/asos-contact-number/ -
![Lucy Marie Bernier]()
Lucy Marie Bernier
on Jan 29, 2017
Foam core board, paint something yourself. It can be done. Hang it up with straight pins. I have all of my paintings hanging from bull clips and straight pins. They barely leave any holes that the landlord will complain about. Because there's nothing to find!...👍👍👍😎![]()
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![Gale]()
Gale
on Jul 25, 2017
First of all, "Command" hooks, strips, etc! I have been using them for years they work great ! You can use a fabric shower curtain to make a picture over a wood frame just staple it on and you're all set . There are all kinds of removable items that you can use now they actually have removable wall murals, removable wallpaper, etc, look for removable wall Decor on Amazon.com. Good Luck! -
![D Minkema]()
D Minkema
on Jul 30, 2017
decals!
Oksana Radionova
on Jun 22, 2016
Odessa Graham
on Jun 22, 2016
Conniehatfield3
on Jun 22, 2016
Janet Pizaro
on Jun 22, 2016
Chris
on Jun 22, 2016
Ty
on Jun 22, 2016
Marjo
on Jun 22, 2016
Brenda
on Jun 22, 2016
Alice
on Jun 22, 2016
Matt
on Jun 22, 2016
Deb Martin Knaff
on Jun 22, 2016
Debi53
on Jun 22, 2016
Cass
on Jun 23, 2016
Carol
on Jun 23, 2016
N.p1512937
on Jun 23, 2016
Leisa Yeager
on Jun 23, 2016
Susan
on Jun 23, 2016
Inf4248723
on Jun 23, 2016
C
on Jun 23, 2016
Lau6890171
on Jun 23, 2016
Valerie
on Jun 23, 2016
Donna
on Jun 23, 2016
Jan Metzger Tolleson
on Jun 23, 2016
Jeannie
on Jun 23, 2016
Dottie'
on Jun 24, 2016
Nancy Smock Patriarco Smith
on Jun 24, 2016
Yvonne Thomsen
on Jun 24, 2016
Debbie
on Jun 25, 2016
Carolyn Noyer
on Jun 25, 2016
Lori
on Jun 25, 2016
Nancy
on Jun 30, 2016
Grandmasue10
on Jul 04, 2016
CK
on Jul 05, 2016
KellySmith
on Jul 29, 2016
Drwoofx
on Dec 23, 2016
One8414992
on Dec 23, 2016
Tresha Armstrong
on Dec 29, 2016
Deanna Nassar
on Jan 01, 2017
Reblcant
on Jan 07, 2017
Fred W Renon
on Jan 16, 2017
Joan
on Jan 20, 2017
Mary
on Jan 23, 2017
Lisa Coffey
on Jan 28, 2017
Lucy Marie Bernier
on Jan 29, 2017
Gale
on Jul 25, 2017
D Minkema
on Jul 30, 2017
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