How to Safely Hang Artwork on Your Walls

How you hang artwork is as important as which piece you pick out. To safely hang artwork you will need: two picture hangers, a hammer, a ladder, a ruler, a pencil and a level.

Step One: Inspect the Artwork

Most artwork comes with a wire on the back of the piece for hanging. Inspect this wire and ensure that it is securely fashioned closely to the back of the artwork. If the wire is loose, or hangs too far from the back of the frame, the artwork could fall off the wall once it is hung. If the wire needs to be repaired, take it to a local art store.

Step Two: Measure the Wall

You want to hang your artwork in an area that is both appealing to the eye and safely out of the way of furniture and people. A good rule of thumb is to hang the artwork where the middle of the piece is at eye level. However, make sure that the bottom is safely away from furniture, or where someone may accidentally bump in to it causing it to fall. Once you have measured a spot with your tape measure, mark the top of both sides with your pencil. This is where you will install the picture hangers.

Step Three: Install Picture Hangers

Assemble the picture hangers by placing the nail through the hanger. Once assembled, place the end of the nail against the spot you marked with your pencil. Use the hammer to nail in the picture hanger. Make sure the hanger is snug against the wall, but do not hammer the hanger too far in as this can damage the wall. Repeat this process for the second picture hanger.

Step Four: Install the Artwork

Place the artwork on the wall using the two picture hangers. Ensure that both the picture hangers are securely placed on either side of the artwork. Once the piece is on the wall, place the level on top of the artwork. The level will indicate if the piece is centered on the wall. If it is not centered, take the artwork off the wall and readjust both picture hangers.

Step Five: Inspect the Artwork for Safety

Once the artwork is hung securely on the wall, you may wish to do a simple safety test. Place a soft piece of furniture, or pillows, below the artwork to act as a cushion if it falls. Next, bang lightly on the wall near the piece. Do not bang hard enough to risk damaging the wall. If the piece does not move, it is secure on the wall.

Keep safety in mind when you hang artwork. You want the piece to remain securely on the wall without damaging it, and not to pose a risk of falling off. If the artwork falls it can damage the piece and nearby furniture.