How to hang wall art

October 20, 2024
How to hang wall art
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How to hang wall art: a step-by-step guide


Or do you also stare at blank walls, thinking of how to bring it to life? Well, one of the most expressive ways to bring life to your persona and living space is by hanging wall art. Though this is sometimes not as easy as it seems, don't sweat! The following guide will take you through literally everything you need to know about how to hang wall art like a pro.

How to Choose the Right Wall Art for Your Room

Before the nuts and bolts, so to speak, of hanging techniques, a primer first on how to pick wall art for the home, since it may make or break the ambiance within a room.

Consider Your Space

Think about the room where you'll be hanging your artwork. Is it a cozy bedroom, a formal dining room, or a bustling living area? The function of the space should influence your choice of wall art[^1].

Size Matters

When it comes to wall art, size really does matter. A common mistake is choosing pieces that are too small for the wall. As a general rule, your artwork should take up about 60-75% of the wall space you're trying to fill[^2].

How to Prepare to Hang your Wall Art

Now that you have found the perfect piece, it is time to prepare for the headliner: hanging wall art.

Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, make sure to have the following in your tool bag:

- Mallet

Nails or picture hanging hooks
- Class
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Step ladder, if needed

Plan Your Layout

If you're hanging more than one piece, it is always better to have some idea of your layout before you start. Use paper templates or even lay out your arrangement on the floor to work out your composition before you start punching holes in the wall.

Hanging Methods for Wall Art

This can be done in several ways, depending on the type of artwork and your wall surface.

The Classic Nail Method

For lighter pieces, it may only be a nail pounded in the wall. To do that:

1. Mark the wall where you want to hang your art
2. Toenail slightly at an angle of 45 degrees into the wall
3. Hang your art, using a level to ensure that it is straight.

Screws for Hanging Pictures and Hooks

The heavier pieces of picture hanging hooks are so much safer. They can carry more weight while not causing as much damage to your walls.

Wire Hanging

Many framed pieces have a wire on the back. To hang these:

1. Measure where you would like the top of the frame to sit.
2. Mark a point about 2 inches below this mark
3. Nail your hook or nail into this lowest mark
4. Drape the art over it, let the wire catch on the hook.

Wall Art Arrangements - Creative

Who says you have to confine to just a single piece per wall? You can get creative with your wall art arrangement.

Photo Gallery Walls

One of the modern concepts is gallery walls; several wall artworks may be hanged on one wall. Mix and match sizes, frames, and even mediums for the eclectic space.

Symmetrical Arrangements

For a more formal look, try a symmetrical arrangement. This works well with pairs of artwork or identically sized pieces.

Caring for your wall art

Once your wall art is hung, it's important to keep it looking its best.

Regular Cleaning

Dust artwork at regular intervals with a soft, dry cloth. Under glass, a slightly damp cloth is acceptable, but be certain not to allow moisture to seep behind the frame.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade your wall art. Consider using UV-protective glass for valuable pieces[^3].

Common mistakes that should be avoided

Even otherwise good decorators get wall hangings wrong sometimes. Here's a few to guard against:

1. Art Hung Too High: Center your art at eye view, which is normally 57 to 60 inches from the floor.

2. Not considering room scale: Remember, your wall art should be to scale with your furniture and the size of your room.

3. Wrong hardware has been used: Fasteners that are too small or hooks that cannot sustain the weight of your work cause damage.

Wall Hanging Art: Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Where am I supposed to hang this wall art?
A: Like all art in general the middle of your piece of work needs to be at eye level around 57-60" off the floor.

2. Q: Where would I place wall art-on the wallpaper?
A: Yes, but be very careful. Only use adhesive hooks or install a picture rail; this will avoid any damage to the paper.

3. Q: How do I hang something super heavy on the wall?
A: Use strong picture hanging hooks or better yet, have a professional do it for you.

4. Q: Can Command strips be used in hanging wall art?
A: Great for lighter pieces, and perfect for renters not allowed to put holes in the wall, but just make sure to follow the weight guide.

5. Q: How do you make a unified gallery wall?
A: Reconsider having just one theme or color scheme; vary sizes and frame orientation, but keep spacers between them consistent.

Conclusion

Hanging wall art is quite an art itself, and a few such tips and tricks set almost anybody well on their merry way to create almost one stunning display. As for hanging wall art, there is no one-size-fits-all rule. At the end of the day, the most important thing is that your arrangement brings a smile on your face each time you look at it. So, get that hammer and let those walls become your personal art gallery!

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