How to Hang Wall Art – A Complete Guide for a Perfect Display
Wall art is more than just decoration — it's a powerful design element that can instantly elevate a space, create a focal point, and reflect your personality. Whether you're hanging an abstract canvas, a photo frame, or a metal sculpture, doing it correctly ensures both aesthetic appeal and safety.
But let’s be honest — hanging wall art can sometimes feel a bit tricky. From deciding where to place it to making sure it’s level, there are a few important steps to get it right. Here's a detailed guide on how to hang wall art the proper way.
🧰 Step-by-Step: Things to Consider When Hanging Wall Art
1. Gather the Right Tools
Before you begin, make sure you have all the essentials:
- Nails or wall hooks
- Measuring tape
- Spirit level
- Hammer or drill (depending on your wall type)
- Pencil for marking
👉 Pro Tip: Use hanging hardware appropriate for the weight of your artwork and the type of wall (e.g., drywall, concrete, or brick).
2. Decide on the Placement
Think about where you want the artwork to go. Choose a spot that complements your existing decor and color scheme. The right wall can enhance the visual impact of the art and define the room’s ambiance.
3. Think About Size & Scale
Larger wall art looks best when placed slightly above eye level — often around 60–65 inches from the floor to the center of the piece. Smaller art can be grouped or layered but should still be aligned properly to avoid visual clutter.
📐 Quick Rule: When hanging art above furniture, leave 6–8 inches of space between the bottom of the frame and the top of the furniture.
4. Check Your Wall Type
Understanding your wall material is crucial.
- Drywall: Use anchors for heavier pieces.
- Concrete/Brick: You’ll need a drill and masonry screws.
- Plaster: Be cautious — drill slowly and use wall anchors.
⚠️ Using the wrong method can damage the wall or cause the artwork to fall.
5. Mark and Measure Accurately
Use a measuring tape and pencil to mark the exact spot where you want to install the hanging hardware. Double-check the alignment using a spirit level for precision.
6. Hang and Adjust
Secure your nail, hook, or bracket, then carefully hang your artwork. Step back and make sure it’s straight and centered. Small tweaks make a big difference!
7. Do a Final Check
Once your wall art is in place, inspect everything. Ensure it’s level, stable, and looks right within the space. This final step adds that polished, professional finish.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hanging Wall Art
Avoid these frequent errors to ensure your display looks balanced and beautiful:
- Wrong height placement: Hanging art too high or too low can throw off the visual flow.
- Skipping measurements: Eyeballing it often leads to misalignment.
- Ignoring wall type: Using nails on hard surfaces or not using anchors can result in damage.
- Hanging without frames: Frameless art may require special adhesive or mounting methods.
- Incorrect spacing in gallery walls: Too much or too little space between artworks creates imbalance.
- Not matching decor: Artwork that clashes with your room’s theme can feel out of place.
- Underestimating weight: Heavy artwork requires secure mounts.
- No final alignment check: Always adjust and level before walking away.
- Lack of care: Dust and protect your art regularly for longevity.
- Going solo on heavy pieces: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when handling large or bulky wall art.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Hanging wall art isn’t just about putting something on the wall — it’s about creating a story, enhancing your space, and expressing your personality. With the right approach, tools, and care, you can achieve a stunning result that brings your walls to life.
At Olive & Gray Collective, we offer wall art that’s not only stylish and inspiring but also easy to hang. Whether you're redecorating your living room or styling your workspace, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
🛒 Explore Our Curated Collection
Find wall art that’s perfectly sized, uniquely styled, and made to make a statement.