In our previous blog we explored three steps to take to make sure you’re placing your artwork in the best location within your space. The expertise we shared provided a practical overview on general placement, but this week we dig a little further with a step-by-step guide on how to hang your new artwork.

Image courtesy Samuel Choisy. Artwork by Becky Comber.

If you’ve been following along with our blog series, by now you’ll have decided to refresh your space, chosen a new work of art (or several!) and they’ve arrived at your front door. You’ve thought about the key tenets of placement and have an idea which room they’ll go into. Now comes the exciting part – installation!

There are three main hanging styles:
Impact Wall
Diptych / Multiples
Salon Style

Impact Wall:
The impact wall (or “the hero” wall) is a high-impact showcase: usually one large artwork that commands attention (a large art piece above your couch or fireplace, for example).

Diptych / Multiples:
A diptych, or multiples simply refers to the idea of several works being hung side-by-side on a wall – sometimes touching, sometimes spaced apart (these are by the same artist and sometimes created specifically to be hung beside each other).

Salon Style:
Salon style refers to many pieces, not necessarily intended to be grouped together, being placed intuitively within a grouping.  Strict measurements not required, which can be a real problem solver.

You can learn about these styles(with diagrams) and more examples here.

However, in order to proceed with any of these hanging styles, you need to know the basic fundamentals of how to hang art (note: the following instructions are for basic drywall – if you have more complex materials like wallpaper, custom wood panelling or plaster walls we have solutions – just send us a note).

Here is a list of what you’ll need:

Tools + Hardware:

• D-rings (see note below
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Pencil
• Screws and plugs
• Drill (you can get away with a hammer and nails if your piece is lightweight)
• A partner to help!
• Confidence! (This might seem silly, but if you’re feeling daunted, can’t find a partner, or the artwork is very heavy or very large, consider hiring a professional in your area)

D-rings: Never use wire to hang your art. D-rings are small “D” shaped pieces of hardware that hang on each side at the back of your frame. A D-ring ensures that your artwork hangs flush against the wall (wire makes your art bow outwards), the weight is evenly distributed across the frame and the artwork stays in place. Very handy for high-traffic areas like a hallway or staircase i.e. if you find yourself constantly adjusting the level of your artwork, this will solve that problem forever. Also, the seams that hold the corners together on a frame are surprisingly fragile and can split if too much pressure is put on them. You may think I’m geeking out on D-rings – I am. The advice is never hang heavy artwork with a wire (or any artwork at all). Always use D-rings.

Ready for the step-by-step instructions? You can download them (plus tips!) in our free handy guide here:

Happy hanging!

Cheers,

Emily McInnes
Founder + CEO

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Rose Ekins
Director