When is it worth investing in a piece of wall art?

"Wall art is always a good design investment," says Alex Epstein, lead interior designer at Purple Cherry Architects. "Art helps complete a room, adds a statement, ties together color schemes, and helps round out a design aesthetic." According to interior designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design, it depends. She encourages clients to buy pieces that speak to them and make them happy. "However, if you are looking for art as an investment, do your research and try to identify up-and-coming artists." Luckily, not all wall art is exorbitantly expensive. You can find lots of affordable options by exploring the retailers featured here.

What are the benefits of buying art online?

Buying art online makes it a lot easier to browse your options, compare prices, and select custom sizes and frames. Purchasing a piece you came across in person can feel special and meant to be—like you found it or it found you. Still, there's no denying the exponentially higher number of choices available on the internet.

Should you frame wall art?

There are some exceptions, but generally speaking, wall art will look better and last longer in a frame. That said, getting a piece professionally framed can be tricky and sometimes expensive, which is why Epstein suggests buying art pre-framed if you're looking to save on costs. As Hunter notes, the frame an art piece comes in often encompasses how the artist intended it to look. However, many online retailers allow you to choose the frame material, color, and thickness. In some cases, a custom option might be better for decorating your space.

The 17 Best Places to Buy Wall Art

Best Places to Buy Wall Art Online — Courtesy of Society6

Finding art for your home can be challenging, let alone getting it framed. But if you know where to look, ordering it online is often the easiest solution.

We researched today's top retailers for prints, canvases, customizations, and one-of-a-kind pieces. Among the panel of big and small brands, we are especially impressed with Society6, which has excellent tools for filtering through its expansive selection. Wayfair is another solid choice, with hundreds of thousands of options and fast turnarounds for custom sizes.

For more guidance, we also tapped in Alex Epstein, lead interior designer at Purple Cherry Architects. She shared her own personal favorite retailers along with some artwork shopping tips: "Buying pre-framed art is a great way to save money and not have to source a matching frame," she advises.

These are the best places to buy wall art online.

What We Like

Excellent selection
Custom sizes and frames
Fast production

What We Don't Like

Some users note that select items are overpriced for the quality

When it comes to buying art online, Society6 really is a one-stop-shop destination. The site carries a range of styles, from midcentury and boho to Scandinavian and wabi-sabi. Beyond that, you can get various types of wall art, including prints, framed pieces, canvas, floating acrylic, posters, woodwork, metal pieces, tapestries, and other decorative hangings.

We like that Society6 makes it easy to filter your search by room, theme, type, or style. The retailer also boasts custom sizes and frame styles, fast production times, and a generous 60-day return window.

_{Return Window: 60 days | Delivery Options: Standard (U.S./international), expedited, rush | Perks: Every purchase pays an artist, free shipping for marketing signup}

What Our Experts Say

"Artwork can be the difference between making a space feel unfinished and complete." —Alex Epstein, lead interior designer at Purple Cherry Architects

What We Like

One-of-a-kind pieces
Customization available
Designer-recommended

What We Don't Like

Most pieces aren't returnable

"We love browsing Etsy for unique and one-of-a-kind pieces, as well as pieces from local artists," says Epstein. The online marketplace adds new shops and products daily, and there's something for everyone and every budget.

When you browse Etsy, you'll find quaint photography, vintage posters, abstract paintings, embroidery, woodwork, and delicate illustrations—to name just a few. Note that delivery options and return policies vary by seller. Still, many promise speedy turnarounds, even for made-to-order art.

_{Return Window: Varies | Delivery Options: Varies | Perks: Free shipping from some shops}

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Global-inspired collection

What We Don't Like

Limited options

World Market is known for selling unique and one-of-a-kind home decor, including wall art. The prices are pretty reasonable, and the collection includes pieces either inspired by or sourced from global artists—hence the name, World Market.

One thing to note is that the retailer typically carries under 200 pieces at a given time. Still, if you like earth tones, neutral palettes, organic textures, and natural wood frames, you'll find something here.

_{Return Window: 60 days | Delivery Options: Standard ground | Perks: Member rewards, curbside pickup, Afterpay}

The Citizenry wall art — Courtesy of The Citizenry.

What We Like

Curated collection
Artisanal pieces
Handcrafted wall hangings

What We Don't Like

Limited selection
Fee for returns
Some items are final sale

If you're drawn to global-inspired art or bohemian home decor, you'll love The Citizenry. The selection is limited, but you can get framed prints, unique photography, and expertly handcrafted wall hangings.

We're talking banana-fiber saucers, three-dimensional palm suns, artisanal macramé, abstract brass ornaments, and oversized fans made from elephant grass. Just a heads up, there's a fee for returns, and some sales are final.

_{Return Window: 30 days | Delivery Options: Ground, premium | Perks: Free ground shipping, white-glove service available}

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Curated selection
Printed from original gouache

What We Don't Like

Limited styles
No returns
Weeks-long wait for framed prints

Rifle Paper Co. is best known for its notebooks, planners, and stationery. But did you know the brand offers wall art too? The archival prints feature whimsical characters, floral illustrations, and botanical motifs.

Available in made-to-order frames, each piece started as an original gouache watercolor painting. Just a heads up, though, production can take weeks, and there are no returns.

_{Return Window: No returns | Delivery Options: Ground, two-day, priority overnight | Perks: Free shipping on orders $70+}

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Good for custom art
User-friendly platform

What We Don't Like

No returns on custom orders

We also like Framebridge, especially for custom pieces. You can frame anything from family photos and diplomas to maps and memorabilia. The platform makes it easy to upload images or mail in physical items to frame.

If you don't have anything specific in mind, you can also browse paintings, prints, and other art pieces from established artists. The prices are reasonable, but FYI, Framebridge doesn't allow returns on custom orders.

_{Return Window: No returns on custom orders | Delivery Options: Standard | Perks: 15% off first order, free shipping on orders $39+, satisfaction guaranteed}

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Limited-edition prints
Custom sizes

What We Don't Like

No returns

As it turns out, Minted is not just for sending holiday cards and wedding invites. The site also has thousands of limited-edition prints by independent artists from all over the world.

We appreciate the accessible prices, custom sizing options, and high-quality printing techniques. Minted doesn't accept returns on wall art, but if your order gets messed up on their end, they promise to make it right.

_{Return Window: No returns | Delivery Options: Standard, two-day | Perks: 10% off first order, satisfaction guaranteed}

The 12 Best Wall Mirrors of 2023

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Curated collection
Statement pieces

What We Don't Like

Limited options
Mostly geared toward teen and young adult audiences

If you've never browsed the home section at Urban Outfitters, we encourage you to do so now. While the selection isn't as big as others, there's a decent assortment of boho, retro, and pop culture-inspired wall hangings.

Like the retailer's clothes offerings, UO art is geared more toward younger audiences (think teen and young adult crowds)—but this is subjective. At any rate, if you want hip, clever, vibrant pieces, you'll find them here.

_{Return Window: 30 days | Delivery Options: Truck, standard, express, rush}

What We Like

Curated collection
Statement pieces

What We Don't Like

Limited options
Pricey

Then there's Urban Outfitters' big sister, Anthropologie. In addition to whimsical, boho, vintage-inspired decor like UO, the retailer offers a slightly more sophisticated collection of wall art.

Prices are on the steeper side, and the selection isn't huge, but we appreciate the curated assortment. You can get painted tapestries, mini framed prints, paintings, mirrors, macramé, and three-dimensional wall hangings, all with a classy, down-to-earth vibe.

_{Return Window: 60 days | Delivery Options: Standard, express, overnight | Perks: Free returns}

What We Like

One-of-a-kind pieces
Original paintings
Rare and obscure art

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Complex returns

As the name suggests, 1stDibs is a place to claim one-of-a-kind art pieces that'll set your home apart from everyone else's. The site carries original paintings, vintage prints, wall sculptures, and unique mirrors.

You'll also find more obscure things, like 50-million-year-old fossil stone murals. You can expect to pay a hefty premium for rare pieces, and we should note the complicated returns process comes with a fee.

_{Return Window: Varies | Delivery Options: Standard | Perks: Not listed}

No Matter Your Style, Here Are the Best Places to Buy Vintage Decor Online

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Extensive selection

What We Don't Like

Not everything qualifies for Prime
Not the most sophisticated selection

You can order pretty much anything off of Amazon—yep, including art. The selection is quite large, and the prices are usually on the more affordable end. Having said that, the offerings aren't necessarily the most sophisticated.

While there's a range of abstract art, framed photography, watercolor canvas, and the like, the top results mostly include motivational sayings and inspirational quotes. Of course, you can also get things like mirrors, floating shelves, and other alternatives to framed art. We also love that Prime members can get free shipping, but note that not all pieces qualify.

_{Return Window: 30 days | Delivery Options: Prime, varies by seller | Perks: Free shipping for Prime members}

What We Like

Reasonably priced
Extensive selection
Easy search filters

What We Don't Like

Custom sizes aren't returnable

Wayfair carries hundreds of thousands of art pieces. It definitely varies, but the prices are pretty accessible, and the retailer holds frequent sales. Also, the filtering tools make it easy to find the style and type of art you're looking for.

You can search by subject, aesthetic, color, frame material, price, or customer rating. Many pieces are available in custom sizes, too, but keep in mind those aren't returnable because they're made to order.

_{Return Window: 30 days, no returns on custom sizes | Delivery Options: Ground, expedited, express | Perks: Frequent sales, financing available}

What We Like

Over 1.5 million pieces
Open-edition prints
Custom sizes and frames

What We Don't Like

Short return window
Some items are final sale

Saatchi Art is an online destination for serious art lovers. The extensive selection is full of over 1.5 million open-edition prints for every taste, with custom sizes and frames available.

Prices are undoubtedly expensive, but the virtual art dealer has frequent sales and offers a $100 credit for referring new customers. Saatchi's return window is relatively short, and some sales are final, so check the fine print before you order.

_{Return Window: 7–30 days | Delivery Options: Global flat rate | Perks: Frequent sales, $100 referral credit, satisfaction guaranteed}

Artfinder wall art — Courtesy of Artfinder.

What We Like

Original artwork
Various mediums
Eco-conscious company

What We Don't Like

Short return window
Expensive shipping

As the name suggests, Artfinder makes it easy to find original art from independent creators from all over the globe. In addition to prints of paintings, the site carries photography, illustrations, collages, and sculptures.

Shipping is expensive, and the return window is only 14 days. However, Artfinder redeems itself for its extensive selection and eco-conscious efforts, including a commitment to being a carbon-neutral company by 2030.

_{Return Window: 14 days | Delivery Options: Standard flat rate | Perks: 10% off for marketing sign-up, Affirm, $30 referral credit}

AllPosters Wall Art — Courtesy of AllPosters.

What We Like

Over 3 million images
Easy search filters
Custom sizes and frames

What We Don't Like

Only ships to U.S. and Canada

AllPosters offers much more than movie and band posters. You can get prints of vintage magazine ads, tasteful photography, canvases, wood mounts, and wall signs.

With upwards of 3 million images to choose from, the site allows you to filter your search by style, artist, subject, type, and material. What's more, AllPosters offers lots of custom sizes and frame options. Not only are the prices reasonable, but the site has sales nearly every week.

_{Return Window: 45 days | Delivery Options: Standard, two-day, overnight | Perks: Frequent sales, free standard shipping on $25+ orders, free returns, free design advice, satisfaction guaranteed}

The 13 Best Picture Frames of 2023 for Displaying Your Photos

Courtesy of MoMA Design Store.

What We Like

Curated collection
Famous artists
Rare posters

What We Don't Like

No returns
Sizes aren't customizable

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) store is much more than a museum gift shop. While the selection isn't as extensive as others, it's worth browsing the curated collection of framed wall art and rare posters.

You can get prints by famous artists, including Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Faith Ringgold, and Nathalie du Pasquier. But FYI, the sizes aren't customizable, and all sales are final.

_{Return Window: No returns | Delivery Options: Standard flat rate | Perks: 10% off for marketing signup, free shipping on $35+ orders}

Soicher Marin wall art — Courtesy of Soicher Marin.

What We Like

Original paintings
Rare pieces
Designer-recommended

What We Don't Like

Sizes aren't customizable
No returns
Expensive shipping

Epstein is also a fan of Soicher Marin. This online art dealer is an amazing resource for those looking to buy original paintings by independent artists.

Each piece is made by a human, not printed by a machine, and nothing is mass produced. Thus, the prices and shipping costs are expensive, and the sizes aren't customizable. However, this is to be expected when buying rare and original artwork.

_{Return Window: None | Delivery Options: Standard flat rate | Perks: 10% off for marketing sign-up}

Final Verdict

If you're in the market for wall art, you really can't go wrong with Society6, which boasts an expansive selection and handy filtering tools for finding the right piece. For slightly more accessible prices and fast turnarounds on custom sizes, check out Wayfair. And if you're serious about art and are willing to invest in high-quality pieces, Saatchi Art is a great resource.

Style and Genre

When buying wall art, the first thing to consider is the style. Some of the most popular genres include abstract, impressionism, modern, art deco, bohemian (boho), midcentury, nautical, landscapes, and fine art.

Some people stick with one style for their entire home or for each room, but mixing and matching is fine as long as the art doesn't clash. Genre aside, the pieces you choose should complement your home decor by calling back some of the colors and textures.

Material and Type

Wall art comes in various types and materials. This includes original paintings, canvas, digital art prints, woodwork, sculptures, metal hangings, photography, fabric tapestries, murals, collages, and macramé.

In addition to various frame and mat materials, you can sometimes choose whether you want yours framed in glass or acrylic. (The latter is lighter, less prone to breaking, and typically more affordable.)

Size

Choosing the right size is crucial when buying wall art. There is such a thing as too big, but most people make the mistake of selecting pieces that are too small. Generally speaking, an art piece should cover roughly two-thirds of the available wall space. The idea is to choose something to scale with the size of your walls and the rest of your furnishings, as the wrong size can throw off the visual balance.

FAQs

FAQ

When is it worth investing in a piece of wall art?

"Wall art is always a good design investment," says Alex Epstein, lead interior designer at Purple Cherry Architects. "Art helps complete a room, adds a statement, ties together color schemes, and helps round out a design aesthetic."
According to interior designer Jennifer Hunter of Jennifer Hunter Design, it depends. She encourages clients to buy pieces that speak to them and make them happy. "However, if you are looking for art as an investment, do your research and try to identify up-and-coming artists." Luckily, not all wall art is exorbitantly expensive. You can find lots of affordable options by exploring the retailers featured here.
What are the benefits of buying art online?

Buying art online makes it a lot easier to browse your options, compare prices, and select custom sizes and frames. Purchasing a piece you came across in person can feel special and meant to be—like you found it or it found you. Still, there's no denying the exponentially higher number of choices available on the internet.
Should you frame wall art?

There are some exceptions, but generally speaking, wall art will look better and last longer in a frame. That said, getting a piece professionally framed can be tricky and sometimes expensive, which is why Epstein suggests buying art pre-framed if you're looking to save on costs.
As Hunter notes, the frame an art piece comes in often encompasses how the artist intended it to look. However, many online retailers allow you to choose the frame material, color, and thickness. In some cases, a custom option might be better for decorating your space.

Theresa Holland is a commerce writer specializing in home decor. For this story, she interviewed two interior designers, who offered recommendations on where to look and insight into purchasing art for the home. She then researched today's top online retailers for wall art and narrowed it down to those with the best selections, customization options, prices, turnarounds, and return policies. Holland has wall art in her home from Wayfair, AllPosters, World Market, Rifle Paper Co., and Framebridge. She covers home design, furniture, and organization at The Spruce.

The 18 Best Places to Buy Home Decor in 2023

The 17 Best Places to Buy Wall Art Online

What to Consider When Buying Wall Art Online

Style and Genre

Material and Type

Size

FAQs

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