Two women hanging a framed black-and-white art print on a gray wall, carefully positioning the artwork. The space features modern decor with a minimalist style, including other framed art pieces, a round mirror, and simple shelving. A practical example of how to hang wall art at home, perfect for a beginner's guide to decorating walls.

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO HANGING WALL ART

Part 3 in the 3-part Beginner’s Guide to Wall Art series.
➡️ Part 1: Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Wall Art
➡️ Part 2: Beginner’s Guide to Buying Wall Art
➡️ Part 3: Beginner’s Guide to Hanging Wall Art

With the guidance provided in the Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Wall Art you’ve decided that you are no longer going to live with naked walls.  And the Beginner’s Guide to Buying Wall Art helped you find exactly the pieces you want to display.  So now it’s time to plan the best way to display and hang your great finds.

These helpful tips and tools will make the process easier, whether you’re hanging lightweight prints or heavy mirrors. I’ve included some of my favorite products, tools, and damage-free solutions to give you plenty of options.

This post contains links to products and resources that I’ve personally selected because I truly believe they are helpful, high-quality, or worth checking out. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. I also participate in other affiliate programs and may earn a commission if you make a purchase through some of the other links—at no extra cost to you.

QUICK WALL ART HANGING TAKEAWAYS:

NO-TOOLS OR WALL DAMAGE: Yes, it’s possible! See Damage-Free and No Tools Required Hanging Solutions below.
NAILS ARE A PLASTER NO-NO: Nails are okay for drywall, but they can crack plaster walls.
STUDS FOR STABILITY: Find and use a stud whenever possible, especially for heavy items. See below for information on stud finders and wall sensors.
NO STUD SOLUTIONS:  If you can’t find a stud, use wall anchors, or opt for stud-free hangers like 3M ClawTM , Monkey Hooks, and Super Hook Picture Hangers.
USE A LEVEL:  Either a classic bubble level or a laser level. These are the two levels I use: Prexiso Multi Surface Laser Level and Stanley 24 inch Surface Level.
KEEP IT LEVEL: To keep your picture level and steady, use a Command™ Poster Strip or  Gorilla Mounting Putty at the bottom of your frame.
PILOT HOLES ARE YOUR FRIEND: And you don’t always need a power drill to make one. See the awl and hand drill I use for making pilot holes below.
PLAN YOUR LAYOUT BEFORE HANGING: See Planning and Layout Tips below for guidelines.

TABLE OF CONTENTS – JUMP TO SECTION:

PLANNING AND LAYOUT TIPS FOR HANGING WALL ART

Before picking up a hammer (or drill or screwdriver), it’s important to plan where and how your art will be displayed.  Read on for placement and layout guidelines and ideas.

General Guidelines for the Placement of Wall Art

➤ Treat Multiple Pieces as One Unit – When hanging a group of wall art or pictures, arrange them as a single visual unit, especially when positioned above furniture.

➤ Spacing Between Pieces – Keep 2-4 inches between pieces in a grouping and 6-12 inches from architectural elements like doors and windows.

➤ Two-Thirds the Width of Furniture – When hanging art above furniture (sofas, beds, console tables), aim for a width of about ⅔ the width of the furniture below.

➤ 6 to 12 Inches Above Furniture – Leave 6 to 12 inches of space between furniture and the bottom of the artwork for a visually connected look.

➤ Align Horizontally and/or Vertically – Optional, but keeping the top, bottom, or center lines aligned gives a polished look.

➤ Fill 60-75% of a Blank Wall – For large empty walls, fill at least 60-75% of the available width to create a balanced feel.

➤ Hang at Eye Level – For artwork on a blank wall, position the center of the piece at 57-60 inches from the floor—roughly eye level for most people.

➤ Avoid Awkward Heights – Don’t hang artwork too high or too low, as it can feel disconnected from the room.

➤ Get Ideas for Layout from Photos – Browse photos of wall art placement (like my Inspiration Gallery) to spark new ideas and see creative layouts in action. Sometimes the best designs break the rules!

➤ Remember: These are just guidelines—your personal style and preferences matter most! If a layout looks good to you, go for it!

➤ Be sure to read How to Hang Wall Art in Challenging Places for tips on hanging wall art in stairways and other unique spaces and Off the Wall: Displaying Wall Art Without Hanging for creative ideas involving propping and leaning your wall art and pictures.

Woman using paper templates and painter’s tape to plan a gallery wall layout, a smart and easy method for hanging wall art with proper spacing and alignment.

Planning & Marking Your Wall Art Layout

While there is absolutely nothing wrong with “eyeballing it” (and I must admit I do it ALL the time), measuring and marking your layout first ensures a balanced look – and there’s less chance you’ll have to go back and rehang anything.

SINGLE PIECE OR SMALL GROUPING:

  1. Measure the Placement – Using the placement guidelines above, use a measuring tape to determine where the artwork will go.
  2. Mark the Bottom Edge – Lightly mark the bottom edge (and optionally the sides) with a pencil or painter’s tape to guide placement.
  3. Use a Level (Optional, but helpful, at this point) – Place a level along your pencil marks or painter’s tape to ensure the artwork will be straight.
  4. Check Spacing for Groupings – If hanging multiple pieces, measure and mark the spacing between them for even alignment.
  5. Step Back & Assess – Review the placement from different angles to ensure it looks balanced before moving on to hanging.
Illustration showing wall art hanging guidelines above a bed, recommending artwork be two-thirds the width of the furniture and hung 6–12 inches above it.

LARGER GROUPING OR GALLERY WALL:

  1. Lay It Out on the Floor – Arrange the pieces on the floor in front of the wall where they’ll be hung. This allows you to experiment with different placements and spacing.
  2. Adjust Until It Looks “Right” – Step back and tweak the arrangement until you’re happy with it.
  3. Choose a Transfer Method – Once you finalize your layout, use one of the following methods to move the design to the wall:
    • Painter’s Tape Method: Outline the dimensions of each frame directly on the wall using painter’s tape. Adjust as needed before hanging. Use a level to ensure top or bottom edges align for a polished look.
    • Paper Method: 
      • Cut packing or Kraft paper to match the size and shape of each artwork. Label each piece of paper to match the corresponding artwork.
      • Tape the paper cutouts to the wall using painter’s tape (use the level here if you want to make sure they are level with each other) and step back to assess balance before hanging.
Diagram showing how to hang a gallery wall above a couch, with artwork spanning two-thirds the sofa’s width and positioned 6–12 inches above the back.

DAMAGE-FREE AND NO TOOLS REQUIRED HANGING SOLUTIONS

✔ 3M ClawTM Drywall Picture Hangers – Comes in different sizes for holding various weights up to 65 lbs. without anchors.

✔ Monkey Hooks & Super Hooks  – No tools needed, great for drywall, may need pilot hole for plaster.

✔ Command™ strips and picture hangers –  Best for light-to-medium weight art

✔ Picture Rails – An elegant, zero-damage hanging system (perfect for plaster walls).

✔ Display without hanging – Prop and lean instead of hanging – a totally tool-free, damage-free way to display wall art (See Off the Wall: Easy Ways to Display Wall Art Without Hanging It)

3M ClawTM Drywall Picture Hangers offer heavy-duty strength without the hassle. Just push the claws into the drywall—no tools, studs, or anchors needed. These hangers come in sizes that support 15, 25, 45, or even 65 pounds, making them perfect for hanging everything from standard frames to larger, heavier pieces of wall art. Fast, secure, and renter-friendly.

Monkey Hooks and Super Hooks are game-changers too. They also require no tools (although one reviewer who used them on a plaster wall did say he had to drill a tiny hole first — but you shouldn’t need any tools for sure using them with drywall.) Just poke the hook into the drywall and twist it into place. These curved metal hangers are strong enough to hold medium-weight frames and art, and they leave only a tiny hole behind.

Command™ strips and picture hangers are probably my favorite damage-free and tool-free option for hanging wall art. I love that I don’t have to worry about hitting an electrical wire or water pipe since I am not drilling or screwing into the wall. I love that I don’t have to worry about finding a stud to hang on. And I love that, used correctly, there is not a bit of wall or paint damage. Because I use them so much, I thought I’d pass along some tips and helpful hints:

Tips for Using Command™ Strips and Hangers

Based on my experience, here are a few key things to know:

  1. Stick with the genuine brand:  Always buy authentic Command™ products. They’re tried and tested, and I can’t vouch for off-brand alternatives.
  1. Choose the right type for your project:  Command™  offers a variety of strips and hangers tailored to different needs. Some come with a separate plastic or metal piece that attaches to the wall. Others use hook-and-loop strips (like Velcro®) that adhere to both the wall and your item.  Pick your Command™ product based on:
  • What is the weight of your picture or wall art?  Make sure you are purchasing the product that matches the weight of the item you are hanging. There are products that allow you to hang items up to 20 pounds.  I always keep one of these Command™ strip variety packs with the 5-lb, 15-lb, and 20-lb strips on hand. (Tip: If you are using the strips, remember that it’s better to use too many on the piece than not enough.)
  1. No matter how you hang your picture, once you have it level, use a Command™ Poster Strip on the bottom of the frame to keep it level and firmly in place.
  1. Follow instructions exactly: This goes for INSTALLING and REMOVING them! This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Read the package and do what it says. This includes wiping the wall with rubbing alcohol before applying the strips, pressing and holding the adhesive for at least 30 seconds, and following all other steps on the packaging to ensure a secure hold. Skipping a step can mean the difference between art that stays put and art that crashes down. And follow instructions exactly when removing them from the wall as well!

More about Picture Rails 

Picture rail systems are another way to hang wall art with no damage to your walls. They may not be for everyone though, as the visible hanging wires or chains are a necessary part of the system and can alter the overall look of a space. But for those who appreciate a functional, damage-free, and adaptable approach to displaying wall art, picture rails might be a great solution. Typically installed near the ceiling, picture rails are narrow molding strips that allow artwork to be suspended from hooks attached to thin cables, wire, or chain. This system eliminates the need for nails or screws directly in the wall, making it especially useful for homes with delicate plaster walls, historic architecture, or ever-changing decor. One of the biggest advantages is the flexibility to rearrange or swap out artwork effortlessly—simply slide the hooks along the rail or adjust the hanging length. Check out STAS Picture Hanging Systems for a wide variety of picture rail systems and ideas.

HARDWARE AND TOOLS YOU MIGHT NEED TO HANG YOUR WALL ART

Before choosing your hanging hardware, be sure to check your wall material and weight limits. See the disclaimer at the end of this post for important considerations.

Hardware for the Back of the Artwork or Picture

If your artwork or picture frame has pre-attached hangers on the back, you can skip this step. If your wall art has no hanger or hardware on the back, read on for the most common hanging hardware types to attach to it.

Sawtooth Hanger

  • A small metal bracket with sharp “teeth” edges that hook onto a nail or picture hanger. Ideal for small and lightweight pieces. Easy to install with small nails.
  • Or go nail-free with these no nail, no screw sawtooth hangers on Amazon.

D-Rings

  • Small metal rings that attach to the frame with small screws. Best to install one on each side of the frame. Use alone for lightweight pieces, resting them directly on nails, screws, or wall hooks. Or string picture wire between two D-rings for better hanging adjustability and support for heavier pieces.
  • Check out these heavy duty D-ring hangers on Amazon.

Picture Wire

  • Metal wire attached between two D-rings. Works for all weights, including heavier pieces. Very versatile – adjust the slack for precise placement on your wall. Select wire strength based on the artwork’s weight. Tip: Install D-rings about 1/3 of the way down from the top of the frame. When attaching the wire, leave a little slack, but not enough to show above the frame once it’s hung.
  • Check out this wire picture hanging kit  on Amazon.

Adhesive Hook & Loop Strips (Velcro® Type)

Other Options

  • Z-Bar Hangers: Great for larger, heavier pieces. They mount securely but aren’t easily adjustable once in place.
  • French Cleats: Two interlocking pieces—one on the artwork, one on the wall. Create a very stable system, perfect for large or valuable art needing extra security.
Wall anchors and screws in assorted sizes and colors on a marble surface, used for securely hanging wall art on drywall, plaster, or masonry walls.

Hardware for the Wall

Once you have installed hardware onto the back of your art or picture if it didn’t come preinstalled, you now have to determine what hardware to use on the wall. The material your wall is made of is a crucial factor in this next step.

DRYWALL

DRYWALL TIPS: For lightweight pieces: Nails, standard picture hangers, or small screws can work well (but it’s always optimal to locate and hang on a stud). For medium-weight pieces: Screws with anchors, 3M Claw™, Monkey Hooks, and Super Hook Picture Hangers are good options. For heavy pieces: Use Molly bolts, toggle bolts, or be sure to secure directly into a stud.

PLASTER

PLASTER TIPS: Avoid hammering nails directly into plaster to prevent cracking. Predrill holes for screws to minimize wall damage. Command™ Strips work well on smooth plaster but may not adhere to textured surfaces. Super Hooks can be a quick, easy alternative (but you may still need to predrill a small hole first before using).

BRICK and CONCRETE

WOOD

**BE SURE to always check manufacturer instructions for exact weight limits and installation guidance. Weight capacities can vary based on the specific product**

Tools You Might Need

Here are some helpful tools that can make hanging your wall art easier and more precise. You won’t need every single one for every project, but I’ve included both the essentials and a few optional extras.

Manual hand drill, drill bit set, and awl used for hanging wall art without power tools, ideal for precise, damage-free picture hanging on various wall types.

Shop Amazon for my Hand Drill and my Irwin Awl 

MEASURING, MARKING AND HANGING

Once your layout is planned and marked, it’s time to put your wall art on the wall! Whether you’re using nails, screws, picture hangers, or damage-free options like Command™ Strips or Monkey Hooks, now is when everything comes together.

✔ Install your chosen hardware according to the product instructions and your wall type. Use a drill or hand tool to create pilot holes if needed.

✔ Attach your hanging hardware securely to the wall, and double-check weight ratings before mounting heavier pieces.

✔ Use a level to make sure your frame is straight before committing. For framed pieces with wire or sawtooth hangers, rest the artwork on the hardware and use a level across the top to adjust.

✔ Fine-tune and stabilize using poster strips or mounting putty at the bottom corners of the frame to keep things straight and prevent shifting.

Take a step back, make sure everything looks balanced—and enjoy your beautifully finished space!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Hanging wall art is the final step in transforming your space, and with the right tools and techniques, it’s easier than you might think! Whether you’re securing a single statement piece, creating a perfectly spaced gallery wall, or opting for a more relaxed propped display, the key is to make it feel intentional and reflective of your style. Now that you’ve mastered choosing, buying, planning, and hanging your wall art, you’re ready to bring your walls to life with confidence. Happy decorating!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog post is for general guidance only and is based on commonly used hardware for different wall types. Every home is unique, and wall materials, structural integrity, and individual circumstances vary. It is the reader’s responsibility to determine the correct hardware and hanging method for their specific walls and artwork.

I am not responsible for any damage to walls, artwork, or frames resulting from the use of the information in this post. Before installing any hardware, I recommend checking manufacturer instructions, consulting with a professional if needed, and testing for wall material compatibility to ensure a safe and secure installation. Proceed at your own discretion.

A QUICK PERSONAL NOTE ABOUT WALL SCANNERS AND STUD FINDERS

I need to make a confession here. I worry and stress way more than normal about… well, everything.  And that includes my fear that I am going to hit an electrical wire or water pipe when I am hanging anything on the wall. A good healthy dose of caution is warranted when hanging things on the walls, but I do go a little overboard in the worry department. So much so that I bought three stud finders. All three also detect live wires and metal. My plan was to use all three tools when I need to hang something and assume a live wire was present if even one of them detected it. I watched probably every YouTube video out there and read so many reviews and comparisons of different stud finders. I picked three that got good reviews and high scores for accuracy and sensitivity, and were in my price range. These are the three stud finders / wall scanners I bought:

JAXWQ Wall Scanner

Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210

Zircon StudSensor HD55 Stud Finder

I have used all three and can attest that all of them are good at finding studs and identifying the edges of studs. And, for the most part, all three identified the same areas as having electrical wires. The JAXWQ wall scanner has a separate metal scan mode, but the Zircon and Franklin will find metal studs without switching them into a different mode.  All three have deep scan modes. Actually, the Franklin sensor supposedly automatically adjusts for depth so there’s no need to manually switch to a different deep scan mode. Of course, using all three turned out to be not necessary and was overkill for sure. Now when I need to hang something, I find myself reaching most often for the Franklin sensor. I find it the most comfortable and easy to use. The only complaint I have about it is sometimes my hand is in the way of the electrical sensor. But I just move my hand and I can then see the sensor. And it has a little pencil hidden in it – just a cute extra bonus. I don’t think you can go wrong if you pick any one of these three….or get all three like I did!

Return to Tools…

Be sure to check out all three posts in this series:

  1. Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Wall Art
  2. Beginner’s Guide to Buying Wall Art
  3. Beginner’s Guide to Hanging Wall Art

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