There are several ways to put pictures on your wall, depending on the size and weight of the picture, the type of wall you have (drywall or plaster), and your desired aesthetic.
Here's a breakdown of common methods:
Assessing Your Wall
Before you start, determine what type of wall you have. As the YouTube video excerpt suggests, push a pin into the wall.
- Drywall: If the pin goes in easily, it's likely drywall. This is the most common type of wall and typically requires picture-hanging hooks or anchors.
- Plaster: If the pin is difficult to push in, it's likely plaster. Plaster is more brittle and requires special care.
Methods for Hanging Pictures
Here are various methods for hanging pictures, from simplest to more involved:
1. Picture Hanging Strips (Command Strips)
- Best for: Lightweight pictures and frames.
- Pros: Easy to use, no nails required, removable and won't damage walls (when removed correctly).
- Cons: Limited weight capacity, may not work well on textured walls.
- How to: Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Clean the wall, apply the strips to the frame and the wall, and press firmly.
2. Picture Hanging Hooks
- Best for: Lightweight to medium-weight pictures.
- Pros: Easy to install, relatively inexpensive, various weight ratings available.
- Cons: Leaves small nail holes, can damage walls if removed improperly.
- How to: Position the hook on the wall and hammer in the small nails at an angle.
3. Nails
- Best for: Lightweight pictures, temporary displays.
- Pros: Simple, quick.
- Cons: Not suitable for heavy items, leaves noticeable holes.
- How to: Choose a nail appropriate for the size and weight of the picture. Hammer the nail into the wall at a slight upward angle.
4. Anchors (for Drywall)
- Best for: Medium to heavy pictures on drywall.
- Pros: Provides a secure hold, can support heavier items.
- Cons: Requires drilling a hole, more involved installation.
- Types:
- Wall anchors: Expand behind the drywall to grip.
- Self-drilling anchors: Drill directly into the wall.
- How to: Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Drill a hole (if required), insert the anchor, and then screw in the screw that will hold the picture.
5. Screws and Wall Plugs (for Plaster)
- Best for: Medium to heavy pictures on plaster.
- Pros: Provides a secure hold on a brittle surface.
- Cons: Requires drilling, can crack plaster if not done carefully.
- How to: Drill a pilot hole smaller than the wall plug. Gently tap the wall plug into the hole. Screw in the screw, leaving enough exposed to hang the picture.
6. Using Studs
- Best for: Heaviest pictures, especially on drywall.
- Pros: Provides the strongest hold.
- Cons: Limits placement to where studs are located.
- How to: Locate a stud using a stud finder. Drill a pilot hole into the stud and screw in a screw to hang the picture. As the video excerpt indicates, this is the ideal for heavy pictures.
Additional Tips
- Consider Placement: Think about the overall arrangement and spacing of your pictures.
- Use a Level: Ensure your pictures are straight.
- Measure Carefully: Measure and mark where you want to hang your pictures before installing any hardware.
- Protect Your Walls: Use painter's tape to mark the spot where you'll be hammering or drilling.
- Weight Capacity: Always check the weight capacity of the hanging hardware before using it.
- Consider the Wall Type: Some hanging methods are better suited for specific wall types.
