When it comes to decorating your home, office, or gallery, hanging art is about more than just putting pictures on walls. It’s a creative process that requires thoughtful planning, the right tools, and a keen eye for detail to ensure that your artwork is displayed beautifully and securely. Whether you’re working with a single statement piece or creating an entire gallery wall, using the right picture hanging system can transform your space. Here’s why hanging art is more than just hammering nails into the wall and how to make sure your display stands out.
How to Hang Wall Art and Pictures
Hanging art properly involves several steps to ensure that your pieces look their best. From selecting the right art hanging system to positioning your artwork at the correct height, here’s what you need to know.
- Choose the Right System: The first step to successfully hanging your pictures is choosing the right picture hanging system. Systems like picture rails, adjustable hooks, or hanging wires provide flexibility and ensure your walls remain free of damage. These display systems allow you to hang and adjust your artwork easily, making them ideal for spaces where displays change frequently or for renters who want to avoid wall damage.
- Height and Spacing: One of the most important elements of hanging art is placing it at the right height. Art should generally be hung at eye level, with the centre of the piece around 145 to 150 centimetres from the floor. If you’re hanging multiple pieces in a gallery wall arrangement, consider keeping consistent spacing between the frames—usually 5 to 10 centimetres works well. Starting with the largest piece and building around it can help create a balanced and visually appealing layout.
- Secure Mounting: Ensuring that your artwork is securely mounted is essential to prevent accidents or damage. If you’re hanging heavier pieces, use proper anchors or hooks that can support the weight. Professional art hanging systems offer the added benefit of adjustable hooks that make it easy to change the height of your artwork without needing to remove it from the wall.
- Consider the Wall Type: The type of wall you’re working with will also determine how you should hang your pictures. Drywall, brick, and concrete all require different tools and hanging methods. For example, hanging systems that use adhesive strips may work well on smooth surfaces but may not hold up on textured walls. A gallery system with hanging rails can offer a versatile solution for any wall type, ensuring that your art is securely displayed without the risk of damaging the surface.
Does Each Wall Need a Picture Hanging on It?
When decorating a room, it can be tempting to fill every available wall space with pictures or artwork. However, less can often be more when it comes to creating a stylish and cohesive display. Here’s what to consider before covering every wall in your home or office with art.
- Focus on Key Areas: Not every wall in a room needs to be adorned with artwork. Concentrate on decorating key areas that will make the most impact, such as over a fireplace, above a sofa, or in the dining room. By limiting the number of pieces you hang, you’ll draw more attention to the artwork and create a more intentional and curated look.
- Leave Room to Breathe: When hanging multiple pieces, it’s important to leave enough space between them to allow each piece to stand out. Overcrowding a wall with too many pictures can make the space feel cluttered and overwhelming. By leaving enough “breathing room” around your artwork, you’ll create a cleaner, more polished display.
- Balance with the Furniture: Your artwork should complement the room’s furniture and other decor elements. When arranging art, consider how it relates to the furniture below or around it. For example, artwork hung above a sofa or sideboard should be at least two-thirds the width of the furniture to create a balanced look. This helps prevent the art from feeling out of proportion with the rest of the room.
- Gallery Walls: If you do want to create a more dynamic display by using several pieces of art, a gallery wall is a great way to do go. A well-arranged gallery wall can be a striking feature in any room, especially if it includes a mix of artwork, photos, and decorative pieces. Using a picture hanging system with adjustable hooks allows for easy rearrangement as your collection grows or your tastes change.
Conclusion
Hanging art isn’t just about putting pictures on walls—it’s about creating a visually appealing and secure display that enhances your space. By choosing the right picture hanging system, positioning your artwork correctly, and carefully selecting where to place each piece, you can transform any room into a beautiful, curated showcase of your art. Whether you’re decorating a single wall or setting up a full gallery display, The Gallery System UK offers the perfect tools and systems to help you hang your artwork like a pro. Explore their range of art hanging systems today and discover how easy it can be to elevate your interior with precisely hung artwork.