How To Hang Wall Art: Step-by-Step

Are you a new homeowner looking to add a personal touch to your walls? Hanging wall art can be a fun and creative way to transform your home's look and feel. In this article, we'll give you a comprehensive step-by-step guide on hanging wall art effectively. From choosing the right location to securing it safely, you'll learn all the tips and tricks you need to know to showcase your artwork with confidence. So grab your hammer and let's get started!

Properly hanging wall art is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures your artwork is displayed beautifully, enhancing your home's overall beauty. Secondly, it helps protect your investment by preventing damage to both the artwork and your walls. And lastly, hanging wall art correctly creates a sense of balance and harmony within your space, making it more inviting and visually pleasing.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Before you start hammering nails into your walls, think about the best spot for your wall art. When considering your space, factors like size, shape, color scheme, and overall layout should be taken into account. You want to choose a spot that will highlight the artwork and complement the surrounding decor.

Step 2: Measure and Mark

Once you have chosen the location, it's important to measure and mark the exact placement of your artwork. Use a tape measure to determine the piece's height and width, then lightly mark the desired spot on the wall with a pencil. This will help ensure that your artwork is centered and level.

Step 3: Determine Hanging Method

Next, you need to determine the best hanging method for your wall art. This will depend on factors such as the weight and size of the piece. For lighter artwork, you can use rubber or plastic picture hooks or adhesive hooks. For heavier pieces, consider using wall anchors or a wall anchor system. It's important to choose a hanging method that can support the weight of your artwork to prevent it from falling and causing damage.

Step 4: Gather the Tools

Before you start hanging your wall art, gather all the necessary tools and materials. This may include a drill, hammer, nails, picture hooks, adhesive hooks, a tape measure, a level, and a pencil. Being prepared makes the process smoother and more efficient.

Step 5: Hang the Artwork

Now it's time to hang your artwork. Start by positioning the piece against the wall and aligning it with the markings you made earlier. If you're using picture hooks, carefully hammer them into the wall at the marked spots. If you're using adhesive hooks, follow the instructions provided to attach them securely. Make sure to use a level to ensure that your artwork is straight and level.

Step 6: Step Back and Assess

Once your artwork is hung, step back and take a look. Make sure it is centered and at the right height. Assess the overall balance and harmony it brings to the space. Adjust as needed in position or height for the desired effect.

Step 7: Additional Considerations

In addition to hanging your artwork properly, there are a few extra tips to keep in mind. Think about the room's lighting and how it will impact your artwork's appearance. If possible, use picture lights or adjustable track lighting to highlight the piece. Also, be mindful of the humidity and temperature in the room, as extreme conditions can damage delicate artwork. Finally, remember to regularly clean and dust your artwork to keep it looking its best.

Yes, the process of hanging wall art is generally the same whether it is framed or frameless. However, there may be slight differences in the hanging method depending on the type of artwork.

For framed artwork, you will typically use picture hooks or nails to hang the piece. These hooks or nails should be placed in the wall at the appropriate height and aligned with the markings you made earlier. Make sure to use a level to ensure that the artwork is straight and level.

For frameless artwork, such as canvas prints or tapestries, you can use adhesive hooks or wall anchors to hang the piece. Adhesive hooks are a great option for lightweight artwork, while wall anchors are more suitable for heavier pieces. Again, make sure to follow the instructions provided with the hooks or anchors and use a level to ensure straightness.

1. Eye Level Rule:

As a rule of thumb, a commonly used guideline for hanging wall art is the eye-level rule. According to this rule, the center of your artwork should be positioned at eye level. This ensures that the artwork is easily visible and engages viewers at a comfortable viewing angle. The average eye level for adults is around 57-60 inches (145-152 cm) from the floor. If you have a mix of tall and short individuals, consider the average eye level as a starting point and make adjustments accordingly.

2. Furniture Placement:

When determining the height at which to hang your wall art, take into account the furniture that will be placed beneath it. For optimal results, leave a space of about 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) between the furniture's top and the artwork's bottom. This ensures that the artwork is visually connected to the furniture and creates a cohesive look. If you have tall furniture or a high ceiling, adjust the spacing accordingly.

3. Wall Space:

Consider the overall size and proportion of your wall space when hanging your artwork. If you have a spacious wall, consider using larger or multiple pieces of art to fill the space. On the other hand, if you have a smaller wall or limited space, choose smaller or medium-sized art pieces to avoid overwhelming the area. For a visually pleasing arrangement, maintain a balance between the artwork's size and wall space.

4. Grouping Artwork:

When hanging multiple artwork pieces together, consider the spacing between each piece. As a general rule, leave around 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) of space to create an attractive grouping. Adjust this spacing based on the artwork's size and style. Experiment with different arrangements and spacing to find what works best for your specific pieces.

5. Experiment and Adjust:

Don't be afraid to experiment with different heights and arrangements when hanging your wall art. Sometimes, what looks good on paper may not translate well on the wall. Start by using painter's tape or paper cutouts to map out the placement of your artwork before committing to any holes in the wall.

Yes, there are alternative methods to hanging wall art without drilling into the wall. Adhesive hooks are a popular choice for hanging lightweight artwork. They come in various sizes and can be easily attached to the wall without the need for drilling. However, keep in mind that adhesive hooks may not be suitable for heavier or larger pieces of art.

Picture hanging strips are another option for hanging artwork without drilling. These strips are designed to hold the weight of the artwork and can be easily removed without leaving any damage to the wall. They work best on smooth surfaces, such as painted walls.

Tension rods can be used to create a gallery wall without drilling. Simply position the tension rods horizontally between two walls and hang your artwork from them. This method is ideal for lightweight pieces and can be adjusted to create different arrangements.

You can hang artwork using over-the-door hooks if you have a hollow door. These hooks can be easily placed over the top of the door and provide a secure hanging point for lightweight artwork.

Properly hanging wall art in your home can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic and ambiance of your space. By following these tips, you can securely hang your artwork in a visually pleasing manner. Remember to consider the size and style of your artwork, as well as the wall space available. Don't be afraid to experiment with different arrangements and heights, and if you prefer not to drill into the wall, there are alternative methods available such as adhesive hooks, picture hanging strips, tension rods, and over-the-door hooks. By carefully strategizing and leveraging creativity, one can effortlessly craft an exquisite gallery wall that elevates the overall aesthetics of their home decor.

Create your dream living space with Mildan Market. We are experts in home decorations, offering quality mirrors, faux plants, wall art, and more. Choose from our exquisite collection and bring Vaughan, Ontario's charm, right to your home. Experience the difference at Mildan Market.

Sources

1. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/use-color-interior-design-understanding-psychology-schemes/

2. https://www.alconlighting.com/blog/lighting-design/lighting-for-art/

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA1jruY-94o