The Art of Picture Frame HangingIf you're anything like me you won't naturally know the difference between a nail and a screw. After spending countless hours studying different picture frame hanging tools I finally got it! We aren't all born handy but we can definitely learn how to hang a picture frame. It's a good idea to distinguish between what tools to use in the hanging process so you don't wake up to the sound of your beloved artwork crashing to the floor. And hanging framed artwork or pictures is an important element to interior design.Picture Frame Hanging Tools by WeightHow to hang a heavy picture frame vs how to hang a light picture frame varies significantly. The weight of your framed artwork is a critical factor that determines what tools to use!20 pounds or less:Simple Nail: this is the simplest way to hang your art. All you need is a nail and a hammer. Choose a 1 ½ or 2 inch nail. Drive the nail into the wall at a 45 degree angle. simple_nail.jpg"}}" alt="How to hang a picture frame, simple nail" /> 50 pounds or less:Screw: You will need a drill. Simple, just drill a hole in the wall and screw the screw into the hole. It is best to screw into a stud but for this weight it won't be necessary. More on studs later. screw_and_drill.jpg"}}" alt="How to hang a picture frame with a screw and drill" width="327" height="350" /> Picture Hanging Hook: You will need the hook, a nail (which usually comes with it), and a hammer. Simple method, insert nail through the sleeve of the hook and hammer the nail into the wall. Make sure you don't tap the hook, it can cut the wall. Depending on the size they can sometimes support more than 50 pounds, ask an expert at your local hardware store to be sure. Picture_hook.jpg"}}" alt="picture frame hanging hook" /> More than 50 pounds:Spiral Anchor: Simplest method for heavy artwork. You will need a spiral anchor, a screw, and a screwdriver. Use a screwdriver to drive the spiral anchor into the wall and then the screw into the spiral anchor. Toggle Bolt: This will hold the most weight, it can hold over 300 pounds. I would hire a professional to install. Other: Molly Bolt, Threaded Toggle Other Important ToolsStud Finder: Necessary when hanging heavy picture frames with expensive artwork. It is a device that is used to determine the location of wood or metal studs. For those of you that don't know what a stud is, they are upright beams beneath the drywall. They are usually spaced 16 inches and are only 1 ½ inches thick so there's a good chance that the location you'll want to place your artwork will be between studs. If you're hanging small to medium sized picture frames they are usually safe between studs. Level: Is important to make sure you picture frame is level. You want to make sure it's not slanted; this is a great tool to confirm that! Good luck picking the right tools to hang your picture frames. If you have doubts you can always ask an expert at your local hardware store, be sure to mention the weight of your art and the type of wall you have! If you are ordering a custom frame online, at frames4less.com they include a picture hanging kit which consists of a picture hanging hook, and a nail. The frame comes already assembled with a wire, ready to add artwork and hang. The hanging process is very simple to DIY for frames 50 pounds or less. If you need help or a professional to walk you through you can always call customer service and an expert custom framer will support you through the process.
