When it comes to decorating a home or office, hanging pictures is an easy and effective way to add style and personality. However, not all picture-hanging techniques are created equal. Knowing the dos and don'ts of hanging pictures can make all the difference between a home that looks put-together and one that looks disorganized.

Proper picture hanging can not only enhance the overall aesthetic but also protect your walls and artwork from damage. In this guide, we will provide some useful dos and don'ts for hanging pictures and will provide you with the information you need to hang your pictures in the best way possible.

The Do's of Hanging Pictures

  • Before beginning the process of hanging a picture, it is important to measure the area where the picture will hang, as well as the height at which it will hang. Use a measuring tape and lightly mark the wall with a pencil so that you can be sure that the picture will hang in the desired spot.
  • It is essential to use hardware that can support the weight of the artwork. Using hardware that is too lightweight or not designed for wall-hanging could lead to damaging the wall or artwork.
  • Consider how the pictures will look when hung together. Grouping pictures in a visually appealing way will create a more harmonious overall look. For example, consider hanging multiple small frames together as a gallery wall rather than scattering them randomly around the room.

The Don'ts of Hanging Pictures

  • One of the biggest mistakes people make when hanging pictures is hanging them too high or too low. Pictures hung too high make a room look unbalanced and not inviting, while pictures hung too low may appear to be looming.
  • The placement of artwork should also be considered when selecting hardware. Using the wrong type of hardware can cause damage to your walls as well as the artwork. Ensure that you use the correct nails, hooks, hangers, or screws for the type and size of the artwork.
  • Another major mistake people often make is hanging artwork in direct sunlight or in humid environments. While natural light is great for artwork, it can fade its colours over time, so it's important to take into account the sun exposure in each room before hanging pictures.
  • Artwork is also vulnerable to moisture, so it's important to avoid hanging pictures in places with high humidity, like bathrooms or saunas. Not only will the excess moisture potentially damage the artwork, but it could also lead to mould growth.
  • It's also important to avoid crowding the walls with too many pictures. Too much artwork in a small space can lead to an overwhelming feeling and take away from the impact of each individual piece.

Tips for Hanging Pictures

  • Using poster frames can be beneficial when hanging pictures. Not only does it give the picture a more polished look, but it also adds protection from dust and dirt over time.
  • Experimenting with different arrangements before committing to a final placement is also important.
  • Consider the material you'll be using to hang your pictures. Adhesive hooks are great for lightweight items, while sturdy nails and hooks are best for heavier pieces. Don't forget to make sure your hardware is appropriate for the walls you're working with. For instance, if you're hanging pictures on drywall, screws should be used instead of nails.

Conclusion

Finally, hanging pictures can be a rewarding and satisfying experience, but it can also be a hassle if done improperly. Taking the time to plan ahead and do it right will save you from having to fix or redo the job later. Following the dos and don’ts of hanging pictures ensures that you get the best results.