How to hang a picture: the dos and don’ts

how to hang a picture

It may seem easy, but hanging pictures on the wall is a DIY job many homeowners struggle with. So we thought we’d give you some dos and don’ts. After reading this you’ll know how to hang a picture securely – and not skewiff! – every time.

Experts have shared their top tips for how to hang a picture correctly without damaging walls, so pictures can be displayed all over the house. 

how to hang a picture
Metallic Statement Wall Art Print, £35, Oh My Gold Ldn.

How to hang a picture on the wall

Hanging pictures on the wall can be a surprisingly difficult DIY task. Now experts have offered eight tips in the form of dos and don’ts to make sure the job is done effectively.  

Photography experts at ParrotPrint.com have given their advice on how to correctly hang a picture on the wall – neatly, without causing damage. 

We’re sorry to say it, but the festive season will be here in a jiffy. So people across the UK will be gearing up to receive and hang up more prints on their walls. 

A set of three prints from Aureous with a sofa and coffee table
Painterly Trio black and gold abstract art set, £65, Aureous.

ParrotPrint.com say: ‘’Hanging pictures may seem like an easy task, but doing it correctly for the best possible results is something that many people are unaware of. 

‘’No matter what the material of the surface you are decorating, there are ways to ensure that you can hang photos with minimal damage. 

‘’This advice will help you get the best results, whether it’s by hook, nail, or command strip.’’ 

The dos of hanging pictures

How to hang a picture: firstly, do measure and make small markings beforehand 

“To ensure that you hang a photo correctly on the first attempt, accurately measure dimensions,” say ParrotPrint.com. “Make markings on the wall to ensure that it is in the correct place and is level.”

how to hang a picture
Monochrome Scandi Coastal Wall Art Prints, from £18, Beach House Art.

How to hang a picture: secondly, do check what type of hanging the photo requires 

“Wire, D-rings and hangers are examples of the types of hanging a photo can have,” the experts explain. “In order to hammer in the correct hooks or nails into the walls, check this beforehand. It may be that command strips may be easier to use.”

How to hang a picture: thirdly, do try to be creative 

“Traditionally, you should hang photos at eye level,” say ParrotPrint.com. “But creating a collage of prints in different frames to cover a wall can lead to an innovative design. Trust your instincts when it comes to photo designing.”

How to hang a picture: fourthly, do consider UV-protected glass 

“Due to the material that some prints are are made of, they can be damaged by the sun,” the experts explain. “Framing photos and placing them in glass can not only protect them from the sun, but from other potential forms of damage.” 

A set of four world map prints from Cox & Cox
Four Panel Wall Map, £262.50, Cox & Cox.

The don’ts of hanging pictures

How to hang a picture: firstly, don’t assume one nail or command strip will be enough 

“Some pictures can be extremely heavy,” the experts tell us. “So check weight requirements on command strips before committing to hanging something up, in case it falls.”

How to hang a picture: secondly, don’t buy prints without considering the colour scheme of the room 

“Considering the colour scheme and design of the room that you’ll place the photograph or print in is essential to make for the best interior design,” say ParrotPrint.com. “Matching colours and tones is an important thing to do.”

how to hang a picture
Creative Wall Gallery, various prices, Desenio.

How to hang a picture: thirdly, don’t hang photos in direct sunlight or near heat sources 

“Direct sunlight or heat can damage the print and cause colours to obscure,” say the experts.

How to hang a picture: fourthly, don’t hang photos while alone 

“Having a helping hand can ensure that pictures are hung level and straight,” ParrotPrint.com tell us. “If you’re hanging a bigger print, it’s also good to have someone to help to minimise the risk of injury.”

how to hang a picture
Blah Blah Blah poster, £15, Neonimo.

Featured image: Giclée Framed Art Prints, £65 each, Neonimo.

Want another interesting way to accessorise your walls? Then check out our handy guide to wall panelling.

About Post Author

You Might Also Like

 
These Three Rooms Directory

Need project help?

We’ve gathered a list of suppliers and showrooms to get you going

Click here

Sign up to our newsletter

Want the latest in your inbox?