How To Hang Art Prints: Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Can you hang art prints yourself? Yes, absolutely! Hanging art prints can be a rewarding DIY project that transforms your living space. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right hardware to securing your treasured pieces. We’ll cover picture hanging hardware, wall mounting art, and various frame hanging methods for both hanging lightweight prints and how to hang heavy art.

How To Hang Art Prints
Image Source: images.squarespace-cdn.com

Getting Started: Planning Your Gallery Wall

Before you even think about picking up a hammer, take time to plan. This is the most crucial step for a cohesive and appealing display.

Choosing Your Art and Layout

Theme and Style: Do your prints share a common theme (e.g., landscapes, abstract art, black and white photography) or a similar color palette? This helps create a harmonious look.
Size and Scale: Consider the size of your prints relative to the wall and the furniture beneath them. A large, empty wall might need a few larger pieces or a collection of smaller ones. A small nook might be perfect for a single, striking print.
Arrangement: Sketch out your desired layout. You can do this on paper, using painter’s tape on your wall, or with digital tools. Play with different arrangements until you find one that feels balanced and pleasing.

Measuring and Spacing

Eye Level: A good rule of thumb is to hang the center of your artwork at eye level, which is typically around 57-60 inches (145-152 cm) from the floor. Adjust this based on your ceiling height and furniture.
Spacing: Aim for consistent spacing between pieces. For a gallery wall, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) between frames is common. Make sure the spacing looks good in person, not just on paper.

Essential Tools and Materials

Gathering your supplies beforehand will make the hanging process much smoother.

Picture Hanging Hardware

The type of picture hanging hardware you choose depends on the weight and size of your prints, as well as the type of wall you have.

Picture Hooks and Nails: These are classic and reliable for hanging lightweight prints and moderately heavy items.
- Single Nail/Hook: Best for smaller, lighter frames.
- Wire-Supported Hooks: These have multiple small nails angled for better support.
- D-Rings and Wire: If your frame doesn’t have a wire, attach D-rings to the frame sides and run picture wire between them.
Screws and Anchors: For heavier items or when you need more secure wall mounting art.
- Drywall Anchors: Plastic or metal sleeves inserted into drywall that screws can grip. Essential for how to hang heavy art in drywall.
- Toggle Bolts: These have wings that expand behind the drywall for superior holding power.
Command Strips: An excellent option for hanging art without nails. These adhesive strips are strong and remove cleanly, making them ideal for renters or those who like to redecorate often. They come in various weight capacities.

Measuring and Leveling Tools

Measuring Tape: Essential for precise placement.
Level: A small torpedo level or a longer spirit level ensures your art hangs straight. Most smartphones have a built-in level app.
Pencil: For marking your hanging points.

Other Useful Items

Hammer: For driving in nails.
Screwdriver Set: For screws and anchors.
Drill: If using screws and anchors, a drill makes the job easier.
Painter’s Tape: Helpful for marking and temporarily holding things in place.
Drop Cloth or Old Sheets: To protect your floor and furniture from dust and debris.

Frame Hanging Methods

Different frames and wall mounting art require specific frame hanging methods.

Hanging Lightweight Prints

For unframed prints, posters, or frames with glass that aren’t too heavy, you have several options.

Using Picture Hooks and Nails

Determine Hanging Point: Measure from the top of your frame down to the wire or hanging hardware on the back. Then, measure from the side of the frame to the center of the wire.
Mark the Wall: Decide on the desired height for your artwork. Use your level to mark a horizontal line where the top of the frame will sit. Transfer your measurement from the side of the frame to this line.
Install the Hook/Nail: Lightly tap a picture hook and nail into the wall at your marked spot. For a simple nail, angle it slightly upwards. Ensure the hook or nail is securely in place.
Hang the Print: Carefully hang your print onto the hook or nail.
Level: Use your level to check if the print is straight. Adjust as needed.

Using Command Strips for Lightweight Prints

This is a fantastic way for hanging art without nails.

Clean the Wall: Ensure the wall surface is clean and dry. Wipe it down with rubbing alcohol and let it dry completely.
Prepare Strips: Follow the instructions on the Command strip packaging. Usually, you’ll press the two parts of the strip together firmly.
Apply to Frame: Peel the backing off one side of the strip and press it firmly onto the back of your frame.
Apply to Wall: Peel the backing off the other side of the strip and press the frame firmly against the wall in your desired location. Hold for 30 seconds.
Wait: Allow the adhesive to set for at least an hour before hanging anything.
Hang: Carefully hang your print. If using multiple strips, ensure they are aligned correctly.

How to Hang Heavy Art

How to hang heavy art requires more robust picture hanging hardware and careful installation to ensure securing wall art safely.

Using D-Rings and Wire

Attach D-Rings: If your frame doesn’t have them, screw D-rings into the sides of the frame, about one-third of the way down from the top.
Attach Picture Wire: Thread picture wire through the D-rings and secure it with a few twists. Leave some slack in the wire, but not so much that the art will tilt excessively. The wire should not be visible above the top of the frame when pulled taut.
Determine Hanging Point: Hold the frame against the wall where you want it. Have someone help you mark the wall lightly through the center of the wire.
Choose Strong Hardware:
- Heavy-Duty Picture Hooks: These often have multiple nails for better support.
- Screws with Wall Anchors: This is often the most secure method. Choose anchors rated for the weight of your art.
Install Hardware:
- For Hooks: Follow the steps for picture hooks and nails, ensuring the hook is rated for your art’s weight.
- For Screws/Anchors: Drill a pilot hole at your marked spot, insert the appropriate drywall anchor, and then screw in the screw. Ensure the screw is long enough to go through the anchor and provide a solid grip. If you hit a stud, you can screw directly into it without an anchor.
Hang the Art: Carefully lift the artwork and place the wire onto your installed hook or screw.
Level: Use your level to ensure the artwork is straight.

Using French Cleats

French cleats are a professional and incredibly secure way to hang heavy items. They consist of two interlocking metal or wooden pieces, each with a beveled edge. One cleat attaches to the wall, and the other to the frame.

Attach Cleat to Frame: Screw one half of the French cleat onto the back of your artwork frame, typically along the top edge. Ensure it’s centered and flush with the top.
Mark Wall Position: Hold the frame with the attached cleat against the wall. Use a level to ensure it’s straight. Mark the wall where the top edge of the cleat will sit.
Attach Cleat to Wall: Screw the second half of the French cleat to the wall, aligning its beveled edge with your wall mark. Use wall anchors if not screwing into a stud. Ensure this cleat is perfectly level.
Hang Art: Lift the artwork and lower it onto the wall cleat. The two beveled edges will interlock, holding the art securely.

Hanging Artwork Professionally

If you have extremely valuable or heavy pieces, or if you simply want peace of mind, consider hanging artwork professionally. Professional art installers have specialized tools and knowledge to ensure your art is hung safely and aesthetically. They can also advise on the best hanging methods for your specific situation.

Advanced Techniques and Considerations

Hanging Art Without Nails

Hanging art without nails is ideal for renters or for those who dislike damaging walls.

Command Strips: As mentioned, these are versatile and effective. Ensure you use the correct weight rating. For heavier items, use multiple sets of strips.
Adhesive Hooks: Similar to Command strips, these offer a nail-free solution.
Leaning Art: For a more casual look, especially with unframed prints or smaller framed pieces, you can lean them against the wall on a mantelpiece, shelf, or console table. This requires no wall mounting.

Securing Wall Art

Securing wall art is paramount, especially in homes with children or pets, or in earthquake-prone areas.

Anti-Tip Kits: These kits typically include a strap or wire that attaches from the artwork to the wall. This prevents the art from falling forward. They are a must for how to hang heavy art in busy households.
Wall Anchors: Always use appropriate wall anchors for drywall if you’re not hitting a stud. Never rely on just the drywall to hold weight.
Placement: Avoid hanging artwork directly above where people frequently sit or sleep, especially if it’s heavy, as a worst-case scenario could be dangerous.

Step-by-Step Summary: Hanging Your Art

Here’s a concise summary of the process:

Plan Your Layout: Decide on placement, height, and spacing.
Gather Tools: Collect all necessary hardware, measuring tools, and picture hanging hardware.
Mark Your Spot: Measure precisely and mark the wall for the hanging point. Use a level.
Install Hardware: Choose the appropriate hardware for your artwork’s weight and your wall type. Install securely.
Hang Art: Carefully hang your piece.
Level and Secure: Use a level to check for straightness and ensure the art is stable. Use anti-tip kits if needed.

Hanging Artwork on Different Wall Types

Drywall: Most common. Use picture hooks and nails for lighter items, or screws with drywall anchors/toggle bolts for heavier pieces.
Plaster Walls: Can be more brittle than drywall. It’s often best to drill a pilot hole and use screws with anchors, or use specialized plaster hooks. Be gentle when hammering.
Brick or Concrete: Requires a masonry drill bit and anchors designed for these materials. Wall mounting art on brick or concrete is very secure.
Wood Studs: The most secure option. Screw directly into the stud whenever possible, bypassing the need for anchors.

Popular Hanging Methods Compared

Method	Best For	Pros	Cons
Picture Hooks/Nails	Lightweight to moderate weight prints	Easy to use, minimal wall damage, affordable	Can leave holes, not ideal for very heavy items
Screws & Anchors	Moderate to heavy art, secure wall mounting art	Very secure, holds significant weight	Requires drilling, leaves larger holes, needs correct anchor
Command Strips	Hanging lightweight prints, renters	Hanging art without nails, no wall damage, removable	Weight limitations, surface prep is crucial, can fail if wet
D-Rings & Wire	Frames without built-in hanging hardware	Versatile for many frame types	Wire can stretch, requires proper installation on frame
French Cleats	Heavy art, secure securing wall art	Extremely secure, professional look, distributes weight	Requires precise installation on both frame and wall

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best way to hang a picture frame?

The best way to hang a picture frame depends on its weight and the type of wall. For lighter frames, a simple picture hook and nail or using Command strips are excellent. For heavier frames, use screws with appropriate wall anchors, or consider a French cleat for maximum security. Always ensure you are securing wall art properly.

Q2: How do I hang art without making holes in the wall?

You can hang art without making holes using adhesive solutions like using Command strips or other adhesive picture hangers. These are great for hanging lightweight prints and are a renter’s best friend.

Q3: Can I hang heavy art on drywall?

Yes, but you must use the correct hardware. How to hang heavy art on drywall requires more than just a small nail. Use screws with drywall anchors rated for the weight of your piece, or toggle bolts for superior holding power. Consider hanging artwork professionally if the piece is extremely heavy or valuable.

Q4: How high should I hang artwork?

A common guideline is to hang the center of the artwork at eye level, typically around 57-60 inches (145-152 cm) from the floor. However, adjust this based on your ceiling height and the furniture the art will be placed above.

Q5: What is the difference between picture hooks and nails?

Picture hooks and nails are often used interchangeably, but a “picture hook” usually refers to a piece of metal with one or more nails designed to hold a picture wire or frame. A simple “nail” can also be used, driven into the wall at an upward angle. Hooks generally offer better support for a given number of entry points.

Q6: How do I hang a gallery wall?

Plan your layout carefully on paper or with painter’s tape on the wall. Use consistent spacing between frames. You can use various frame hanging methods depending on the weight of each piece, but consistency in spacing and alignment is key to a polished look.

By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle wall mounting art with confidence, transforming your walls into a beautiful display of your chosen prints. Happy hanging!