Hanging Pictures – Take the Fear Out of Hanging Pictures
Does the thought of hanging pictures leave you panicked and in a constant state of procrastination? Take a deep breath. It is not as difficult as you think.
Here are some top tips to help build your confidence:
- Mistakes can easily be covered. It’s just a nail hole. Simply arm yourself with a tube of Spackle (or similar filler product from your paint store) and a small container of the leftover paint. Use your finger to fill the small nail hole with the filler and when dry dab paint on with a Q-tip. I had a small dent in a wall that had been painted 5 years prior. I patched it up and covered a four inch square piece of the wall with leftover paint. The colour difference was somewhat obvious for 1 – 2 months and then it faded to match the rest of the wall. If a patch that size can disappear, there should be little issue with a few small nail holes.
- Use templates and plan ahead. For peace of mind, take the extra time to plan ahead. Trace around each frame on a piece of paper and then cut out the template. Tape the paper on the wall with small pieces of removable tape and adjust it until you are satisfied with the final picture placement or, if working with a grouping of pictures, the complete arrangement. Before removing the paper, measure and mark where the nail hole(s) need to be. Lightly tap the nail thru the paper so it slightly marks the wall. When you remove the paper from the wall you can see exactly where to place the nails.
- Ensure you are using the proper hanger for the job. There are many options available. Match the weight of the framed piece to the weight limit specified for the hanger now to avoid damaged walls or damaged pictures later. If in doubt check with your local hardware store or consult a picture framer for specialized products not readily available elsewhere.
- Let the wall space suggest the shape of frame or arrangement. On tall, narrow walls, hang taller arrangements. Several pictures hung in a column may also enliven the space. For a horizontally proportioned wall choose a horizontal piece or grouping.
- Blank wall space is an important element of design. Don’t underestimate the importance of blank wall space. Intentionally leave a wall empty. It can transform a busy space into a place of tranquility. Rooms will appear larger if they are not crowded.
Getting started is the most difficult aspect of hanging your pictures. Haphazardly placed pictures make the room look disorganized and uninviting. Plan ahead, take your time and your room will look amazing. If the task seems overwhelming the best solution is to hire a professional. An interior designer or custom picture framer can provide the extra help you need.
Check out our website www.timeframes.ca for more helpful hints for hanging artwork.
