How High To Hang A Picture - A Detailed Guide
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Time to read 5 min
When you hang a picture, aim to have the centre of the piece at eye level, which is usually around 57 to 60 inches from the floor. If you’re decorating a space where people sit more, like a dining room, consider hanging it a bit lower. Measure the height of the artwork, divide it by two, then subtract the distance from the top of the frame to the hanging hardware. Add this number to 57 to 60 inches, and you’ll know where to place your screw. These are the basics, now let's dive in to the details.
Table of content
Grab Your Tool Kit
Now, you won't need all of these tools. It will depend on what you're hanging and where it will be placed. Continue reading for more details.
- Hammer
- Pencil
- Screwdriver
- Tape measure
- Spirit level (or phone app)
- Drill
- Drill bits
- Nails
- Wall plugs and Screws
- Command Strips
Things to Consider
Artwork Size and Weight: The size and weight of your artwork will determine the type of hardware you should use. Light pieces can typically be hung with nails or Command Strips, while heavier pieces will require wall plugs and screws to securely support the weight. Remember, nails should only be used for lighter artworks to avoid damage or accidents.
Wall Materials: Think about where your artwork is going to be hung and the material of the wall. If you're hanging on brick, concrete, or tile, you will need a masonry drill bit. A drill bit made for softer materials like wood won't work.
Studs: The most secure method to hang an artwork is to drill directly into a stud behind the wall. A stud is a wooden support which sits behind the walls in your home. You can use a stud finder to locate where the studs are behind your wall. Don't have one, don't stress. This is only required when hanging something very heavy.
Scratches: We love to add small rubber bumps to the back corners of our frames. This prevents the frame from scratching the wall over time. It also creates a nice shadow gap between the wall and the frame. Small details matter!
Hang Your Picture
Step 1: Use a tape measure to mark where you'll need to drill your hole. You can find this by measuring the height of the artwork, dividing it by two, then subtracting the distance from the top of the frame to the hanging hardware. Add this number to 57 to 60 inches, and you’ll know where drill your hole.
Step 2: Use a pencil to mark where you will drill your hole. If drilling into a dark material like brick or concrete, we suggest using a white marker or chalk, so you don't lose the spot.
Step 3: Now you're ready to make a hole in the wall. Make sure that the wall plugs you've chosen match the size of the drill you're using. For example, if you have a M6 (6mm diameter) drill bit, you should use a M6 wall plug. M6-M8 is generally fine for most artworks.
Drill a hole deep enough to hold the wall plug. Remember to use a masonry drill bit if drilling into brick or cement.
Step 4: Insert the wall plug. If there is some friction, use a hammer to make sure it is flush with the wall. Use a screwdriver to insert the screw, make sure to leave enough of the screw sticking out so you have something to hook your artwork to. We recommend leaving it 1cm(1/4") out from the wall.
Step 5: Locate the string or saw tooth fixing on the back of your frame and position it centrally on top of the screw. If the screw doesn't latch, the head may be too close to the wall, simply adjust if you need to. Once your picture is on the wall, step back and admire it.
Step 6: Not quite perfect? Use a spirit level to ensure the frame is straight. If you don't have a spirit level, you can use your phone. For iphones, we suggest the 'measure' app
Alternatives
So what if you're renting, or just don't want to make a hole in the wall? Adhesive hooks and Command Strips can be a good option, with the ability to hold various weights and remove cleanly without damaging paint. However, we have found that they have a tendency to fail over time, so we would use them as a last resort.
For larger pieces or a more casual look, we love to lean art against the wall on the floor. This can create a relaxed, gallery-like atmosphere without any installation required. If you already have a shelf on the wall, using it to display your artwork amongst your other favourite home decor can make a big impact, without the hassle.
More Than One Artwork?
If you have more than one artwork and simply want to space them apart at the same height, measure from the middle of your frame to the edge of the frame, then add on whatever you want the gap between the artwork to be. We recommend 2-3 inches for a tighter, more cohesive look. For a more spacious arrangement, go for 4-6 inches. Measure your total distance from the first drill hole and repeat steps 2-6. If you have lots of pictures, we suggest you check out our article on building the perfect gallery wall, this is where you can break all the rules!
Now, if you've made it this far, you probably already have your artwork ready to hang. If not, we have you covered. Check out our curated selection of modern art prints and start your home transformation today.
What is the ideal height to hang a picture?
The best height to hang artwork is at eye level, approximately 57-60 inches from the ground to the centre of the artwork.
What tools do I need to hang a picture?
You’ll need nails, wall plugs, screws, screwdriver, hammer, tape measure, pencil and a level. For lighter pieces, you may opt for Command Strips or adhesive hooks.
How can I secure heavy artwork on the wall?
Use wall plugs and screws for heavier artwork to securely support the weight. Command strips and adhesive hooks may not be sufficient for heavy pieces.
How do I hang a picture on brick or concrete?
You will need to use wall plugs and screws. You will also need a masonry drill bit.
How can I ensure my art is level?
Use a spirit level to make sure your art is level. If you don't have a spirit level, there are many phone apps available which work the same way.
How far apart should you hang pictures?
Leave about 2-3 inches between frames for a tighter, more cohesive look. For a more spacious feel, aim for 4-6 inches between frames. For gallery walls, start with 3-6 inches between frames and adjust based on your preference and wall size.
