How To Hang Art Like A Pro
Hanging art is not just about randomly placing a picture on a wall. It's an art form in itself that requires precision, balance, and a keen eye.
Today, we’ll walk you through the process of hanging art, (promise it’s not as scary as it seems, yes you - you can do it yourself, but you’re always welcome to call us up for help!). Let's dive in and discover the secrets to creating your own stunning at-home or office art display.
We believe your walls should get just as much attention as the rest of your decor decisions! They’re made to be filled with art, and we're here to help show you how. Hanging frames can make each space in your home feel beautiful, polished and personal. Artwork hanging in your entryway welcomes you and your guests into your home with a feeling of warmth, and provides an introduction to your unique style and the personalities of those that inhabit the home.
We believe that the process of choosing and hanging artwork should be fun and stress-free, and above all, shows off who stays in the home or space and what their style is. It's a lot like you're running your own personal home art gallery.
So what's the best way to hang pictures? The main thing to keep in mind is that it doesn't have to be a scary endeavour. Hanging art in your home can feel incredibly daunting. There's so much to consider with each piece—from finding the right height to hang artwork above a console or a sofa to creating a gallery wall in a long hallway. We like to follow a few guidelines, and here are three of our favourite tips and tricks for hanging art in your home.
- Measure and Plan: Use a measuring tape and measure the dimensions of your wall space and artwork. Consider the height, width, and depth of each piece to create a balanced arrangement. Plan the layout by experimenting with different placements on the floor or a large table.
- Eye-Level Rule: Position the centre of the artwork at eye level, which is typically around 145-152 centimetres from the floor. Adjust the height based on your ceiling height and the average eye level of the people in your household. A general rule of thumb, for an average height person, would be to use own head. If the reflection of your head is roughly in the centre of the frame on the wall from the middle of the room - you are probably spot on!
- Use GOOD tools: the best job is done with the best tools, don’t frustrate yourself with tools that will let you down. Invest in some handy everyday tool that will make the process that much smoother.
When it comes to hanging art, there are various approaches to consider, including creating a gallery wall, hanging a single artwork, and exploring the technique of layering and leaning artwork. Let's explore these options and find the perfect display for your space.
GALLERY WALL:
Gallery walls are a fantastic way to showcase a collection of artworks or photographs. Start by selecting a theme, such as a colour palette or a specific style, to create a cohesive look. Pay attention to the mediums, styles, and overall look of all the individual pieces along with the space you’ll be utilising. Depending on your personal style, your gallery wall can be in harmony with the design style in your space or it could be vastly contrasting and bold. Art is an expression of your style, so explore what feels good in the space for your needs.
We suggest the best way to nail the layout of your gallery wall is to lay out the arrangement on the floor and measure to ensure proper spacing and balance. Another way to accurately map out the layout and spacing of art is to use newspaper. Trace and cut-out the size of the frames on newspaper or tissue paper to help you get a feel before putting holes in the wall. You can also use these templates to map where you should drill holes in the wall by marking the hooks on the newspaper.
When hanging, start with the centre or focal point and work your way out, using a level to ensure straight lines.
Remember to leave enough space between each piece for visual impact. When it comes to hanging a gallery wall itself, the height can vary depending on personal preference and the layout of your space. As a general guideline, many experts suggest hanging the centre of the gallery wall at eye level, which is typically around 145-152 centimetres from the floor. This allows for comfortable viewing and creates a visually pleasing display.
We suggest the best way to nail the layout of your gallery wall is to lay out the arrangement on the floor and measure to ensure proper spacing and balance. Another way to accurately map out the layout and spacing of art is to use newspaper. Trace and cut-out the size of the frames on newspaper or tissue paper to help you get a feel before putting holes in the wall. You can also use these templates to map where you should drill holes in the wall by marking the hooks on the newspaper.
When hanging, start with the centre or focal point and work your way out, using a level to ensure straight lines.
Remember to leave enough space between each piece for visual impact. When it comes to hanging a gallery wall itself, the height can vary depending on personal preference and the layout of your space. As a general guideline, many experts suggest hanging the centre of the gallery wall at eye level, which is typically around 145-152 centimetres from the floor. This allows for comfortable viewing and creates a visually pleasing display.
SINGLE ARTWORK
When it comes to hanging a single art piece, finding the perfect height is key. It's a thoughtful process that considers the size of the artwork, the surrounding decor elements, the overall aesthetic you want to achieve, and the prominence of the artwork in the space. As a starting point, we suggest hanging the artwork at eye level, typically around 145-152 centimetres from the floor. This ensures that the piece is easily visible and draws attention to the room. As we mentioned before, a general rule of thumb is, if you can see the reflection of your head is roughly in the centre of the frame - you're spot on.
However, if you're looking for a general guideline for a single piece or a few pieces arranged horizontally, aim to hang the art so that the centre of the piece is approximately 152 centimetres from the floor. This placement aligns with your eye line and creates a pleasing balance. You'll find this tried-and-true rule of thumb consistently applied in art galleries for a reason—it creates an immersive and captivating viewing experience.
For larger pieces, it's often recommended to hang them at eye level, while smaller pieces can be grouped together or placed on narrower walls for a gallery-like effect.
However, if you're looking for a general guideline for a single piece or a few pieces arranged horizontally, aim to hang the art so that the centre of the piece is approximately 152 centimetres from the floor. This placement aligns with your eye line and creates a pleasing balance. You'll find this tried-and-true rule of thumb consistently applied in art galleries for a reason—it creates an immersive and captivating viewing experience.
For larger pieces, it's often recommended to hang them at eye level, while smaller pieces can be grouped together or placed on narrower walls for a gallery-like effect.
LAYERED & RESTING ART
Layering and leaning artwork is a popular trend that adds depth and dimension to your space. You can create a captivating visual composition by starting with a larger piece as the base and leaning smaller artworks against it at various angles. This contemporary approach brings an interesting dynamic to your decor. To ensure a balanced arrangement, use measurements as a guide and explore different combinations until you achieve the desired look.
When it comes to hanging artwork, remember that you have the freedom to think beyond traditional wall placement. Art has the power to enhance depth, texture and storytelling wherever it is positioned. For instance, we adore the idea of layering artwork with a mirror on a console. You can lean it against the wall or prop it up with a stand on top of a little pedestal, creating an eclectic, laid-back and layered appearance. Don't be afraid to hang a smaller piece on the wall beside it to complement the arrangement.
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Remember, if you need assistance with hanging your artwork, our expert team is here to help. Our professionals can provide guidance, suggest placement ideas, and even install the artwork to ensure your artwork is hung securely and beautifully. Enquire today to receive personalised assistance for your artwork and art hanging needs.
Transform your space into a captivating showcase of art with the right hanging techniques. Whether it's a gallery wall, a single artwork, or layering and leaning, let your creativity flourish. And with our expert team by your side, you can trust that your art will be displayed flawlessly. Contact us today to explore our services and bring your vision to life.
