A few common errors we’ve compiled to help you hang your paintings in a more visually appealing way. Avoid these art hanging mistakes!

(P.S. Click here to learn an easy way to visualize your painting on a wall without doing all the work to hang it.)

#1 Hanging tiny paintings on huge walls.

Solution

Give your painting some friends. If you have tiny art and big walls, put your paintings together with a theme, or ensure they have similar elements.

#2 Hanging pictures TOO high.

Solution

Lower the painting!

#3 Hanging incorrectly and the painting falls. 

Solution

This all depends on the weight of the picture and the strength of the wall. For drywall, make sure you find a stud. Use more than one hook if possible (this also helps with evenness.) If in doubt, reinforce more. Read this post for more information on hardware. Also, always “test” the artwork by tugging on it once hung.

Use heavy duty hooks if your artwork is very weighty.

If you use command strips, this article is helpful for determining how much weight they can easily support.

#4 Hanging too close to furniture

Solution

Make sure you give a wide berth around all furniture and other paintings.

Take a step back and analyze the look and feel of the entire wall.

Does anything feel cluttered? Readjust if necessary.

#5 Hanging too much clutter without space to focus

Solution

The whole point of hanging artwork is to bring attention to the artwork itself. When hanging art, ask yourself where your eye is drawn to. If your wall doesn’t anywhere to focus, consider removing distracting elements.

#6 Choosing overly ornate or distracting frames

Solution

The purpose of a frame is to protect the art and to display it in attractive way that brings attention to the art, not the frame.

If you find yourself distracted by your frame, try switching it out for a plain black frame and white mat. Simpler is usually better in regard to frames.

#7 Hanging in sunlight

Solution

Keep an eye on your walls.

Is any of your artwork hanging in a spot where the sunlight hits?

Make sure to check in the early morning, noon, afternoon, and even the evening hours. Sunlight rapidly deteriorates the colors of paintings.

Conclusion

Thanks for reading these tips to make sure your artwork is protected, beautiful, and tastefully displayed for years to come!

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