How to Hang Wall Art Perfectly Every Time

Are you tired of staring at bare, dull walls in your home? Adding wall art is a great way to elevate any space. It can be a single framed print or a selection of framed prints or canvas prints. But hanging wall art can feel scary sometimes – for example, what if the artwork is not level or too high? 

Choosing the right hardware for your art print can also be overwhelming. Should you use nails, screws, or adhesive strips?

This comprehensive guide will walk you through selecting the right hardware to hang your art print. Our guide will help you create an eye-catching display with confidence. Say goodbye to crooked frames and hello to picture-perfect walls!

 'Amalfi Coast I' design styled by Chantelle from @buildingouraston

 

Introduction

Hanging wall art can be frustrating sometimes. If you have ever experienced a crooked frame or a hole in the wrong place, you know this to be true. But hanging wall art does not have to be difficult—if you know the right steps to follow.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to hang wall art perfectly every time. We will cover everything from measuring and marking your wall to choosing the right tools to hang your art print. By the end of this guide, you will be hanging wall art like a pro!

 

Choose the Right Tools for Hanging Wall Art

The key to a perfect wall art display is using the right tools. Here are the must-haves for your toolkit:

• Level

This is essential for ensuring your art prints are hung straight and level on the wall. A simple bubble level will do the trick nicely.

• Measuring tape

A tape measure is one of the most essential tools for hanging wall art like a pro. It is important to have a good quality tape measure that is accurate and easy to read. Choosing the right type of tape measure is essential. Various styles are available, so consider which will suit the project best.

• Hammer

A hammer is an essential tool if you plan on hanging wall art. With a few simple steps, you can easily use a hammer to secure your chosen wall decor on the wall.

• Stud finder

A stud finder can help you locate studs. Mark the studs’ location with a pencil so you remember where to put the nails. If you are hanging a large piece of wall art, using two nails per stud for extra support is best.

 

Types of Hardware for Hanging Wall Art

There are a few different types of hardware that can be used for hanging wall art. The most common type is a nail, which can be either hammered or screwed into the wall.

Hardware such as screw hooks are used to hang artwork. These are screwed into the wall and have a loop on the end to hold the art piece.

There is another way to assist in hanging wall art. Adhesive strips can be used. These strips are attached to the back of the art prints. Then, the art prints can be stuck onto the wall.

However, this is recommended for light art prints only. These products are easy to install and remove and will not damage your walls. However, they can only support a limited amount of weight.

 

Measuring Your Wall Space

Hanging wall art requires careful consideration. You should always take into account the amount of space you have.

Measuring your wall space is a crucial step. It will ensure that the art prints you choose will fit perfectly in your home.

Before you start shopping for art prints, taking the time to measure is important. 

There are a few different ways to measure your wall space: 

1. Use a tape measure to determine the width and height of the area you want to fill. 

2. Find a large piece of paper or poster board. Cut it to the dimensions of the area you want to fill. Then, use a pencil or pen to mark where you would like to hang your artwork. 

3. Take a photo of the area you want to fill. Then use an online ruler tool to measure dimensions. Alternatively, you can use the free measure app, which is available on the iPhone.

'Phila, Goldie and Devon' - A cohesive trio of prints hung side by side

 

Before Hanging Your Wall Art

You have found the perfect selection of wall art. Now you are ready to hang it.

You will need a picture hanging kit if you're hanging a picture without hooks. Start by measuring the distance between the top of the picture and the bottom hook on the back of the frame.

Then, use that measurement to mark the appropriate spot on the wall with a pencil. Use a level to ensure your mark is level, and then use a drill to create a pilot hole.

Next, insert your wall anchor into the pilot hole and screw it in until it's flush with the wall.

Then, using a level, mark a horizontal line on the wall where you want the centre of your artwork to be. Next, measure the distance from the top of your artwork to the hanger on the back of the frame. This will be your starting point for hanging your artwork.

Consider where electrical outlets are located. Think about eaves or any other obstacles that might obstruct the path. Determine if the wall is load-bearing. Remember these factors.

If you are using screws, make sure they are screwed in tight but not too tight. Over-tightening can strip the threads and make it difficult to remove the hardware later if needed.

Wall anchors should be inserted so that they are flush with the wall surface. They should be driven in until they are snug against the back of the drywall.

'Kamal' design hung at eye level to create a focal point- approximately 60 inches off the floor

 

Now it's time to start hammering in those nails! Starting at your marked line, hammer in a nail at each end of your artwork's width. Then double-check that your nails are level before moving on.

Once your nails are in place, it's time to hang your artwork! Gently place the wire hanger over each nail and carefully secure it in place.

Next, use the level to make sure that the artwork is straight.

Feel free to experiment with different arrangements until you find one that you love.

Take a step back to view your artwork from time to time. It is important to look at your work from a distance. If you are hanging more than one artwork, ensure that everything looks good together.

And that's it! You've now successfully hung your artwork perfectly every time!

 

'Burleigh Heads' framed art print in 110x80cm 

 

Tips & Tricks To Hanging Wall Art

1. First, choose the right piece of art for the space. Consider the size of the wall, the overall feel of the room, and what will compliment your existing décor.

2. Once you’ve found the perfect piece, it’s time to figure out where to hang it. The general rule is that art should be hung at eye level, but this may not always be possible or desirable. Play around with different heights to see what looks best.

3. Once you have decided on the placement of your art piece, mark the spot with a pencil. This will help you remember where the placement of the nail should be. If you’re unsure about placement, use painter's tape to create a quick outline of where the frame will go.

4. Now it’s time to hang the artwork! Start by hammering in the nail (or nails) at your marked spot. If using multiple nails, make sure they are evenly spaced apart to support the frame's weight.

5. Hang your artwork on the nail(s), making sure it is level before letting go. Step back and enjoy your handiwork!

 

Final Thoughts and Conclusion

After you've followed the steps in this guide, you should have beautifully hung art prints that bring joy to your home. But there are a few final things to keep in mind.

First, take a step back and look at your handiwork from a distance. Make sure the art is level and symmetrical. If it's not, make adjustments until it is.

Second, if you're not happy with the way the art looks on your wall, feel free to try something different. You can always move the art around or hang it in a separate room.

And finally, remember that hanging wall art is an ongoing process. As your taste evolves and your walls change, so will your artwork collection. So go out and start collecting those pieces that speak to you!