Hi art lovers!
Hanging art can be one of the most enjoyable and transformative aspects of decorating your home. But it can also be a bit daunting—where should you hang that beautiful painting or those cherished family photos? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some friendly tips on how to hang your art like a pro.
1. Eye Level is Key: The general rule of thumb for hanging art is to place it at eye level. The center of the artwork should be about 57 to 60 inches from the floor. This is a comfortable viewing height for most people. Here’s a simple way to measure:
- Measure the height of your artwork.
- Divide that number by two to find the center.
- Measure 57 to 60 inches from the floor to the center point on your wall.
Adjust as needed for your personal preference or the height of your furniture.
2. Consider the Space: The size and shape of your wall and furniture should influence where and how you hang your art. When hanging art above a sofa or a console table, keep the bottom edge of the art 6 to 8 inches above the furniture. This creates a cohesive look without leaving too much empty space and for gallery walls, start with the largest piece and place it at eye level. Then, arrange smaller pieces around it, keeping a consistent spacing (usually 2 to 3 inches) between frames.
3. Use Templates and Tape: Before you start hammering nails, use paper templates and painter’s tape to plan your arrangement. Cut out paper in the size of each piece of art and tape them to the wall. This allows you to experiment with the layout without committing to holes in the wall. Move the templates around until you find the perfect arrangement.
4. Level Up: Nothing ruins the look of beautifully hung art like crooked frames. Use a level to make sure your art is straight. If you don’t have a physical level, there are plenty of smartphone apps that can do the job. This step is especially important for gallery walls where multiple pieces need to align perfectly.
5. Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different types of art and frames. Combining paintings, photographs, prints, and even three-dimensional pieces can create a dynamic and interesting display. Varying the frames adds texture and depth to your arrangement. Just make sure there’s a unifying element, such as color or theme, to tie everything together.
6. Trust Your Instincts: While guidelines are helpful, your home is your personal space. If a piece of art feels right in a certain spot, trust your instincts and go for it. Art is personal, and how you choose to display it should reflect your taste and style.
7. Experiment with Arrangements: Don’t be afraid to change things up from time to time. Art doesn’t have to stay in one place forever. Rearranging your art can give your space a fresh feel and help you see your pieces in a new light. Rotate pieces between rooms or even within the same wall to keep things interesting.
Hanging art is an art in itself, but with these tips, you’ll have your walls looking fabulous in no time. So go ahead, grab that hammer and get creative!
With all love,
Your Designer Mind 💖