How to hang an artwork: your easy guide for installing your new piece at home
Hanging your new artwork can seem daunting, but with these simple tips you'll be creating gallery-worthy displays in no time. Whether it's an original painting or a limited edition print, how you hang your art can often be as important as the art itself. Adding the pièce de résistance to your living space will require a little patience, some insider advice and a few tools. So here's how to hang your art like a pro.
Prepare Your Space
Before you to start to hang your art, make sure your chosen spot is clean and a safe distance from pipes and electrical wiring. Then assemble your tools: a tape measure, hammer, nails, spirit level and picture hooks. While most small artworks can be hung using one picture hook, larger artworks will require two (spaced 20-30cm apart, depending on size). It is advised that you always seek professional help for hanging heavier artworks, but if you'd prefer to do it yourself, you will also need large nails, wall-plug anchors, screws and a screwdriver or electric drill. If you are hanging on a brick wall, it is advised to use brackets.
We do not recommend using Velcro picture strips or adhesive hooks as they can loosen over time.
Plan Your Design
Take the time to visualise how you would like to display your artwork: do you want one piece to take centre stage, or are you planning to mix and match? You can outline your chosen design on your wall in pencil, Post-It notes or masking tape.
Your artworks should also work with the existing features of your home décor, including lighting, furniture, radiators and soft furnishings. It is advisable to avoid natural light where possible to help protect the vivid colours; consider ceiling lights and spotlights instead.
Keep It Straight
Measure the distance from the ceiling to the top of the frame (get someone to hold it for you while you measure) and mark this point on the wall. Then turn the piece around and tug the string gently upwards to full tension, as gravity will pull the artwork down as it is hanging. Measure the difference between the peak of this and the top of the frame, and add this difference below the point on the wall. This is the line at which your picture hook(s) should be affixed with a hammer and nail. Hang your artwork and check it is straight using a spirit level. You are now an expert!
Get Creative
Above all else, hanging your new artwork should be enjoyable. Don't be afraid to experiment with different locations: hanging art along your staircase can create a window effect, while in the kitchen it can add a pop of colour to plain walls and surfaces. Hanging styles can also transform the appearance of your space. Originating in 17th-century Paris, the 'salon wall' features artworks from different genres in contrasting shapes and sizes, meaning you can mix portraiture, floral, contemporary and classic art for a unique display that showcases your personality. For a more modern approach, you could take inspiration from the Bauhaus movement and dedicate an entire wall to a statement piece. Whatever you choose to do, make sure it feels special to you and your home.
Art installation service
If you'd like to enjoy your new artwork straight away, our friendly and knowledgeable specialist team can carefully deliver and install your artwork(s) in your chosen space via our art installation service. This includes:
· Full health and safety checks
· Expertise on the positioning
· Contact-free installation
· Professional cleaning of artwork and removal of packaging
You can choose a two-hour window from Monday to Saturday to suit your schedule, and you'll also receive a courtesy call 30 minutes before our team arrives. Then you can sit back and relax, and we'll take care of everything else!
"There's no better feeling than seeing a collector happy with their new artwork. It is such a privilege to be able to see homes transformed by art every day." - Nick Cherrington, Shipping Supervisor at Castle Fine Art
