Tips & Tricks

For framing related questions and advice, explore our answers and suggestions to maximize your experience with us.

What You Need To Know Before You
Swing The Hammer

If you're hanging more than one picture in the same space, think of the pieces of art you have chosen as one unit. They must carry a common look or theme. Examples: the same framing treatment, colors, size, event, artist, subject, etc.
When you hang your artwork, remember that the width of space between each picture should be less than the width of the pictures themselves — no matter what the size. Let the pieces get cozy with each other! Otherwise, your wall will look unorganized and random.
Symmetry means that when divided in half, each half looks the same as the other. This works nicely in formal rooms with an even number of pieces evenly spaced. Asymmetrical displays are unexpected, but don't count them out. They work wonders in informal, fun areas. Display asymmetrically with different sizes, shapes and colors together for an eye-catching presentation.

If you have graph paper, sketch your wall space to scale. Don't forget furniture such as lamps that will affect the balance.
If you don't have graph paper, trace your pieces on newspaper or craft paper. Cut them out and use poster-gum to apply the paper to the wall. Now you can get an idea of what your walls will look like with art in different places.
When all else fails, lay your artwork flat on the floor and arrange the pieces until you find an appealing arrangement. Also, leaning your artwork against the wall will help you see how the light hits it.

Measure each piece of artwork to find the center. Keep in mind the drop of the wire.
Determine where the picture hook will be fastened to the wall. Make a small pencil mark on the wall.
Then, instead of using a nail to mark the place you want to hammer, use a piece of tape. Not only does this prevent extra holes in the wall (should you change your mind), it also protects the wall from cracking when you finally hammer in the picture hook.

It's a good idea to have a friend help. Not only do you get a second opinion, they are there for your safety should you fall off a ladder, hammer your finger or shatter glass (by the way, pictureframes.com only uses acrylic which is lighter and shatter resistant, unlike glass).
You may think that you have to find a stud in the wall to hang a picture. This isn't true, as picture hooks are made to carry the weight evenly on two separate hooks. Never use just nails to hang your precious artwork! Only picture hooks distribute the weight evenly and safely.
Never use adhesive picture hangers, either—especially in humid areas.
Framing kits from at pictureframes.com have everything you need to hang your artwork.
To help keep your pictures hanging evenly, use poster-gum on the back corners between the picture and the wall.

Now watch your fingers and hammer away!

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