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Do you ever wonder how high or low to hang your favorite painting? We can take the guess work out of hanging your framed projects with some tips on placing and attaching the hooks. Hanging your artwork shouldn't be a challenge, so we've simplified the process so you can enjoy your work as intended!
When hanging a frame there are two things we prioritize: the safety of the work and the visual appeal of it's location. Preservation-grade materials and durable hardware can only be appreciated when you get to show off your framed work! Below are our tried-and-true hanging instructions along with specific examples to help you find the best way to hang and display your artwork and mementos.
HANGING INSTRUCTIONS
Tools you will need:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Level
- Hammer
- Two picture hooks
- Painter’s tape (optional)
1. Measure 60 inches up from the floor and make a mark with pencil or painter's tape. This marks the center of your frame.
Why 60 inches? 58-60 inches is the standard eye-level line for most people, ensuring all can view the work. However, this may not apply for above a couch or in a child's room, for example.
2. Measure the height of the frame and divide this number by two. Add this number above the 60 inch mark. This marks the height of the frame.
3. Hold the frame's wire taught in two locations, mimicking the tension of the two hanging hooks. Measure from the center of the wire to the top of the frame. From your second mark on the wall, measure down this distance and place a third mark. This is the level at which you will place the picture hooks.
Why two picture hooks? Two points of contact help maintain a level frame and provides support for heavier works. Placing the hooks 1/4 of the way in on each side ensures better stability, as well.
4. Use the level to find both hook points by measuring to the left and right of your third mark equal parts.
5. Hammer in your two hooks and hang your frame!
TROUBLE-SHOOTING MATERIALS
The hardware we supply with your framed project will be sized for the weight of the framed artwork. When hanging any artwork, it is almost always recommended to place your hanging hardware directly into wall studs. You may need to use a stud finder and adjust your hook location to appropriately accommodate this change for the height. We do not recommend adhesives for any installation of framed work.
For Drywall Hanging:
Use a hammer to tap the provided hooks and nails into the drywall. For heavier frames it is best to locate the studs.
For Plaster Hanging:
Place a piece of tape on the spot you intend for the hooks. The tape will help prevent the plaster from cracking. Using a drill bit that is a hair thinner than the provided nail, drill pilot holes at a slight downward angle where your two hooks will go. Now you can tap in the provided nails with a lower chance of fracturing the plaster.
For Brick or Masonry Walls:
Instead of using the provided hooks and nails, you will need to install masonry anchors and screws. Using a masonry drill bit sized for the anchor you will be using, drill two holes into the wall where your two screws will go. Insert the anchor into the hole. You may need to gently tap the anchor with a hammer. Drive in the screws, leaving about 1/4 inch exposed for hanging the wire on your frame.
For Heavier Projects:
We will provide you with a French Cleat hanging system. Use plastic anchors to attach the first side of the Cleat to your wall. The other half of the Cleat will be attached to the back of your frame. Gently slide the French Cleats together.
HANGING ABOVE FURNITURE
There may not be enough space above a couch, bed, or piece of furniture to adhere to the 60-inch-center rule. Rather, allow between 6 and 12 inches between the furniture and artwork.
The ideal frame size should not exceed 75% of the furniture. However, if your couch or bed has side tables, you can count these pieces of furniture as a whole and extend the space of which you hang a frame.
DINING ROOM TRICKS
Because you’ll mostly be sitting down when spending time in a dining room, hang pictures a little lower than normal. That way you will still be at eye-level with your artwork when seated.
ART ON A STAIRCASE
Since most staircases are suitable for one person to be passing at a time, it is best to hang shallow frames as opposed to deep frames. You don't want to worry about bumping into the frame and knocking it off the wall! This rule of thumb can also be applied to narrow hallways.
OVERSIZED WORKS
When framing artwork you want to make sure the work is the right size for your space. You don’t want your artwork to overwhelm the room, but you also don’t want it to be so tiny it gets lost. Oversized works can be a great statement piece for any room when accompanied with the right interior design.