How to Hang a Picture

Having pictures may seem like a simple task, but it is an art form that will instantly elevate your home and the aesthetic of your living space. Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or a beginner, knowing how to hang a picture properly is essential to ensure a secure and visually pleasing display. In this article, you will get a step-by-step guide on how to hang pictures, select the right tools and secure the artwork. Here is how to hang a picture for the perfect personal touch. 

Preparing For Hanging the Picture 

Before anything else, you will want to consider the right location in your home. Start by selecting a spot that considers certain factors. Think about wall space, lighting and the makeup of the room. Also, take into consideration the size and weight of the picture.

Now that you picked the perfect location gather your tools. You will need a few essential tools to hang the picture successfully. Grab a tape measure, pencil, level, hammer and hooks, wire or nails. What you use to have it displayed on the wall will depend on the type of frame. 

Marking and Measuring 

Determine the placement of your chosen artwork. Measure the height and width of the picture and mark the desired location on the wall with your pencil. If you want to hang multiple pictures together, you can use printer tape to create a mock layout on the wall for visual reference.

 Find the hanging point, which is when you measure the distance from the top of the picture frame to the point where it hangs. Mark the measurement on the wall using a pencil, making sure it aligns with the previously marked spot. 

Hanging Methods

If you are using picture hooks, you will need to position the hook on the wall at the marked spots. Gently tap the nail into the wall at a slight upward angle to make sure it is secure. Leave about a fourth of an inch of the nail exposed because it will provide a secure anchor for the picture hook. Hang the picture on the hook and ensure it is level and adjusted if necessary. 

Another way to hang a picture is by using a sawtooth hanger. For frames with a sawtooth hanger, you can align the hanger with the marker area on the wall and hold the picture against the wall. Ensure it is level and make a small pencil mark through the hanger’s keyhole opening. Now you can insert a nail or screw into the wall where the spot is marked. Leave it partially exposed and hang the picture on the wall. 

Hanging wire is a good option for hanging frames and wooden art. With hanging wire, you will want to determine the height of the picture and mark it on the wall. Measure the distance from the top of the picture frame to the wire and mark the measurement on the wall. Position the hook or nail at the marked area and make sure it aligns with the position of the hanging wire. Hang the picture on the nail or hook and adjust if needed. 

The Finishing Touches

Now you will want to level the picture. Use your level to ensure that the picture is straight. Sometimes it will look straight but is not completely there. Adjust the positioning by lifting and lowering one side of the picture if necessary. 

Lastly, you will want to make sure everything is secure and tidy. To prevent the picture from shifting, consider using adhesives during wall mounting or rubber bumpers on the bottom corners of the frame. These will provide added security and stability to protect your walls. Finally, erase and visible pencil marks and clean the area. 

The Bottom Line

With the right tools and techniques, you can hang a picture perfectly in no time. Remember to follow these steps next time you plan on spicing up a room with art.