How to Hang Your Artwork
57" IS THE MAGIC NUMBER
How you hang your artwork can make a huge difference. The gallery standard is for the center of the piece to be at eye level: 57 inches. No matter the size of the piece or the wall, this will feel right because it matches average height. But, do what feels right between 57"–63"
How to Video
Need a comprehensive walkthrough on picture hanging? Check out this detailed and informative video from Lowe's that covers all the essential steps
STEP 1: TOOLS
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Tape measure
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Pencil
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Level
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Hammer + nail for small, lightweight pieces (8x10 or smaller)
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Drill, bits, anchors and screws for larger pieces (all my pieces come with the hardware!)
STEP 2: HORIZONTAL MEASUREMENT
To center a piece on the wall:
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Measure width of wall
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Divide width by 2
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Draw a vertical line on the wall ( | ) at the center point, right at your eye level
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Weird Wall? Light switch or pipe in the way? In most cases, measure from edge to edge and ignore wall interruptions. Just be consistent on both sides. If there’s a big pipe or something on one side, center the piece between the edge of that dumb pipe and the other wall to make it feel balanced.
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STEP 2: VERTICAL MEASUREMENT
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A. Divide the height of your piece by 2
B. Measure the distance from the top of your piece to the hanger
Note: If your piece has a hanging wire, pull it up and taut (into a “frown” instead of its resting “smile”) and measure it from the center to get an accurate number.
C. Measure your center point: 57” is the standard
Then, do the math!
A - B + C(57) = Hammer here!
Draw a horizontal line ( — ) through your vertical line to make a ( + ) on the wall.
Now you’re ready to nail/screw!
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STEP 5: HANG IT!
When in doubt, go with a heavy anchor/screw combo for common drywall. But I always recommend consulting a pro. The size and weight of your piece + the type of surface = the best hanging hardware. Bring measurements and type with you to the hardware store and someone can help you choose the best type of anchor/screw for your space. Common tricky surfaces below.
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Notes:
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Plaster walls: don’t try a hammer and nail, you’ll need some special screws + hardware to prevent big holes. Here’s a handy how-to video.
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Brick or stone: you’ll need masonry bits and proper screws and anchors for that material. Here’s a handy video for tips.
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Really heavy stuff: this is a great how-to from Lowes.
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On a stairwell / up really high: hire a pro. Itis typically $100-$200 to have someone come out and is well worth the peace of mind that the piece is hung securely.
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Gallery wall: here’s a great how-to from Studio McGee.
Damage-free hanging: Command strips are an excellent alternative for damage-free hanging, just consult the weight limits carefully.