Stringing a picture frame involves attaching hanging hardware and securing a cord across the back. The cord provides a single point from which the frame can be hung on a nail or hook.
Properly stringing your picture frame ensures it hangs securely and level on the wall. While the specific hardware may vary, the basic process of attaching the cord remains similar for many frames.
Preparing Your Frame
Before stringing, you typically need to install hanging hardware onto the frame itself.
- Choose Hardware: Common options include D-rings or eyelets. These are usually screwed into the back of the frame, near the top corners (typically about 1/3 of the way down from the top edge).
- Select Cord: Use sturdy picture hanging wire or cord appropriate for the weight of your frame. Ensure the cord's weight capacity exceeds that of your frame.
- Cut Cord: Cut a length of cord that is sufficient to reach between the two pieces of hardware with enough excess to tie secure knots.
Attaching and Stringing the Cord
Once your hardware is in place, you can string the cord.
- Thread the Cord: Thread one end of the cord through one of the D-rings or eyelets.
- Tie the First Knot: Bring the end of the cord back along the main length. Secure it with a knot. According to one method, you can tie a knot left over right. Ensure this knot is strong and secure against the hardware. Some techniques involve wrapping the end several times around the main cord before tying off.
- Thread the Other End: Take the other end of the cord and thread it through the hardware on the opposite side of the frame.
- Adjust Tension: Pull the cord taut across the back of the frame, but ensure it is reasonably loose. You want there to be some slack. A common guideline is that when the cord is pulled up at the center, it should reach roughly to the top edge of the frame.
- Tie the Second Knot: Secure the second end of the cord to the hardware using a similar strong knotting technique. Again, tying a knot left over right is one approach.
- Trim Excess: Trim any significant excess cord beyond the knots, leaving a small tail.
Why Keep the Cord "Reasonably Loose"?
The reference notes that the cord should be reasonably loose because the person who's going to hang on the wall needs to get the hand in behind that. This slack makes it easier to maneuver the cord onto a hanging hook or nail.
Proper knotting is essential for safety. Always double-check that your knots are secure and that the hardware is firmly attached to the frame.
