How to hang a picture frame

Photos and artwork are the finishing touches to a personalised home, which is why knowing how to hang a picture frame is a good skill to learn. Although hanging a picture frame sounds simple, it’s not without its risks. Checking which walls are load-bearing and making sure your frame is positioned correctly is a fiddly job. That’s why we recommend hiring a professional to help you achieve a perfect finish.

However, if you’re confident in your DIY abilities, we’ve put together this how-to to guide you through the process.

How to hang a picture frame

Before you get started, consider the size and positioning of each picture. Although it’s a matter of preference, measuring and marking out the area/s is worth the effort.

Tools you’ll need for the job

Once you’re good to go, gather the following items.

• Picture frames
• Hanging hardware
• Pencil
• Screwdriver
• Hammer
• Spirit level
• Power drill for heavy frames

Why not hire one of our professionals to help you do the job? Price up your project using our picture hanging service cost guide.

How to hang a picture frame without hooks on the back

Step one
For picture frames without a hook on the back, you’ll need to add the hooks yourself. Take the frame apart by flicking the metal tabs that hold the picture in place and remove the backing, glass and protective layer.

Step two
Measure from the top to the bottom of the frame to determine the height, then mark the middle of the board on either side of the frame using a pencil and a ruler.

Step three
Measure the width of the frame from side to side to find the middle point and mark with a pencil and ruler.

Step four
Measure the width of the sawtooth hanger hook and divide that number in half. Measure that halved number on either side of the middle points and mark with a pencil and ruler. For example, if the frame is 12 inches wide and the sawtooth hook is 2 inches wide, you’ll need to measure 1cm on either side of the midline to make sure you position the sawtooth correctly.

Step five
For heavier pictures, add hangers in the centre of the side rails using the same steps above.

Step six
Positon the sawtooth hook in the marked area/s and hammer in small nails or screws to keep it in place.

Step seven
Use your mounting equipment to place the picture mounts where you’d like your frame to go on your wall. If you’re using the hooks on either side for extra security, be sure to measure and mark out the correct positions before installing your mounts.

How to hang a picture frame with sawtooth hangers

Sawtooth hangers are perfect for hanging light to mid-weight pictures — up to 9.1kg tops. Use one in the centre for smaller frames and two on either side of the frame for pictures wider than 24 inches.

Step one
Measure the width to find the centre point of the frame. Mark with a pencil.

Step two
Position the sawtooth over the mark in the centre. They often come with a hole in the middle to make it easier, but if not, divide the width of the hanger by half and measure that number on either side of the midline you’ve marked. The sawtooth will now fit between those lines.

Step three
Hammer the sawtooth (teeth down) into the frame with two small nails or screws. Repeat the process if you’re using two sawtooth hangers. Otherwise, move onto step four.

Step four
Use a pencil to mark the wall where you want to hang your picture. Aim for the bottom to be around 150cm up from the floor or wherever it looks the best.

Step five
Hammer a nail at a 45-degree angle or place a picture mount into the area of the wall you’ve marked. Do this twice for pictures using two sawtooth hangers.

Step six
Hang the picture by gently sliding the sawteeth and mounts together. Use the spirit level to check the balance, then stand back and admire your handiwork!

Top tip: Consider rubber bumpers on the bottom of the picture frame to avoid wall scratches.

How to hang up a picture frame without nails

There are several ways to hang picture frames without using nails. Here are just a few options:

1. Backing stands
2. Picture hanging strips
3. Press-in hooks
4. Tape or reusable adhesive
5. Picture string

Note that these options are only for lightweight or smaller picture frames. Anything heavier will need securing properly.

Why not check out our stunning interior design ideas for more household tips and inspiration? If you’re creating a gallery in your hallway, then check out our narrow hallway ideas for inspiration.

FAQs

Should I hire a professional?

Smaller jobs are easily managed at home, while complex, heavy or multiple jobs will need a trained professional to ensure safe, efficient and durable fixtures. We highly recommend asking a professional to help with these sorts of jobs, as there are other factors such as load-bearing capacity, weight distribution and correct positioning to consider. Find out more about handyman prices.

How to hang a picture frame without wire

If you don’t want to use wire, consider using sawtooth hooks, adhesive or ribbon to hang your pictures instead.

How to hang a picture frame with ribbon

Ribbons are a nice touch for homes looking to expose their picture hanging apparatus. You can do this by attaching two D-hooks on the back of either side of your frame and a picture mount or nail on your wall. Then, simply knot the two ends of the ribbon through the D-hooks and hook the middle of the ribbon over the wall mount. Line up as needed.

How to hang a heavy picture frame

We highly recommend hiring a professional for these kinds of jobs. Heavy pictures require extra care and consideration to avoid damage to your walls, minimise safety risks, and ensure your peace of mind. A professional picture hanging will let you enjoy your artwork without worrying about the walls coming down!

What is the easiest way to hang a picture frame?

Adhesive strips are by far the easiest way to hang picture frames. However, they’re only useful for lighter frames or smaller pieces of artwork.

Like what you see? There’s more where this came from. Why not check out our blog for more tips, how-tos and household inspiration?