How to hang your artwork
Whether you’ve purchased an original painting or a canvas print, here’s how to hang your new piece.
There’s something magical about the moment you can hang your new artwork on the wall and finally see how it transforms your spae.
This guide is for you who just received a piece from me (thank you! 💛) and want to make sure it hangs beautifully. Whether you have an original painting with wire or a canvas print with a sawtooth hanger, here’s exactly what to do.
Hanging an Original Painting (with wire)
Most of my original works are fitted with a sturdy wire on the back, which makes them easy to hang on a single hook or screw. For the originals it will be extra important to make sure they hang firmly on the wall, as we don't want to risk them falling down.
What you’ll need:
A measuring tape, a pencil, a picture hook or wall anchor + screw, a hammer or drill, a level (optional, but helpful).
Steps:
1. Decide on placement
As a general rule, artwork looks best when the center of the piece is around 145–155 cm from the floor, at comfortable eye level. If you’re hanging it above furniture, leave about 15–25 cm of space between the two.
2. Measure and mark
Measure the full height of the artwork, then the distance from the top of the frame to the highest point of the wire when pulled taut. Use this to mark the right spot on the wall where the hook should go.
3. Install the hook or screw
If you’re hanging into drywall or concrete, first drill a hole and then put in a wall anchor, then screw in the screw. This ensures your screw is strong enough to carry the weight of the artwork. With wooden walls it's enough to just screw one screw directly into the wall if your artwork isn't too heavy.
4. Hang and adjust
Hang the artwork from the wire and adjust until it's level. A level can help, or trust your eye!
Hanging a Canvas Print
Canvas prints come with a sawtooth hanger attached to the back. These are quick and easy to hang, perfect for adding art to any room in minutes. They're not too heavy
What you’ll need:
A screw,a drill, and depending on your wall type an anchor, a pencil, level (if your canvas print has two sawtooth hangers).
Steps:
1. Choose your spot
Just like with originals, the ideal center height is around 145–155 cm from the floor, and 15-20 cm over any funiture it will hang above.
2. Lightly mark the wall
Use a pencil to make a small mark where the nail or screw will go. If your print has two sawtooth hangers you need to measure the distance between the two and make two separate marks on your wall. Use a level to make sure that the marks are straight.
3. Drill the screw
Make sure it’s firmly in place. Use a wall anchor if your wall is concrete or drywall. Then hang your canvas by resting the sawtooth hanger onto it.
4. Straighten it up
Adjust as needed to make sure it hangs evenly. Sawtooth hangers make it easy to shift the canvas slightly to the left or right.
Need help?
If you’ve bought a piece from me and want input on placement, I’m happy to help. Send me a photo of your space, and I’ll offer some suggestions to help you find the perfect spot.
Mari