How to Hang Wall Art: A Step-by-Step Guide

Wall art can dramatically enhance any room, turning blank walls into focal points of artistry and expression. If you're ready to elevate your decor with these stunning pieces but aren't sure where to start, this step-by-step guide will walk you through basic things you need to know about how to hang wall art properly.

Two Common Ways to Hang Artworks: Pros and Cons

To help you get started, we'll introduce two common ways to hang artworks, highlighting the pros and cons of each. 

(1) Hanging Oil Paintings Using Two Nails and Two Hooks

First, let's introduce the method of fixing an oil painting with two nails and two hooks. We often hang carefully crafted oil paintings on the walls of our homes. For an oil painting with dimensions around 60×90 cm, it usually requires two nails and matching toothed hooks to help secure it. This is currently the most aesthetic method and the default hanging option we provide to customers.

(Hooks on the back of the oil painting)

Next, for oil paintings with dimensions less than or equal to 40×60 cm, you only need to use one nail on the wall to hang the painting.

(The effect after the customer installs the hooks)

Shop Modern Minimalist Art at Kelorart Now

The benefits of this hanging method are: the hooks sit close to the back of the oil painting, and once the painting is hung on the wall, it fits closely against the wall, making it look more discreet and aesthetically pleasing. It also prevents dust from accumulating on the back of the painting, saving you the hassle of cleaning.

However, for those who are concerned about putting nails in the wall, the disadvantage of this hanging method is: two nails are needed on the wall to bear the weight of the painting, and these two nails must be placed on the same horizontal line to ensure the painting stays level and aesthetically balanced on the wall.

(2) Using Fine Rope 

Some customers may prefer to use fine ropes to hang their oil paintings, and many art sellers only provide one type of hanging hardware. For large paintings with outer frames or oil paintings smaller than 60×90 cm, a rope may suffice, but it can bring several inconveniences.

Hanging an oil painting with a rope requires only one nail and is easier to adjust for balance. However, this method creates a gap between the top of the painting and the wall, leading to dust accumulation on the back of the painting, which is difficult to clean. Additionally, it does not allow the painting to sit flush against the wall, making it less visually appealing.

If you're a fan of Van Gogh’s artwork, don’t miss this Van Gogh Reaper Wall Art – Custom Oil Painting.

KelorArt recommends using nails and hooks to hang oil paintings. This is a professional hanging method and the most commonly used one. KelorArt uses high-quality craftsmanship to create the best three-dimensional visual effect for your oil painting. We also equip each oil painting with convenient hanging hooks and screws, saving you time and effort and eliminating the need for you to worry about installation.

Hanging A Single Wall Art

Gather Your Tools

• Hammer

• Measuring tape

• Pencil

• Level

• Wall hooks or nails

• Picture hangers or appropriate hanging hardware (based on the painting's weight)

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot for Hanging Wall Art

Decide where you want to hang the wall art. The best placement is where the center of the painting is at eye level, typically around 56 to 60 inches from the floor.

Step 2: Measure and Mark for Hanging Wall Art

Use the measuring tape to find the correct height on the wall. Mark the spot where the center of the canvas wall art should be with your pencil.

From this center mark, measure upwards to where the top of the canvas wall art will be.

Next, use a level to draw a straight horizontal line on the wall above each hook on the sides of the frame to make sure the canvas art hangs evenly.

Step 3: Install the Hanging Hardware for Hanging Wall Art

Position nails or hooks on the wall along the horizontal line. Typically, two nails should suffice, placed so that they align with either side of the painting’s frame to provide balanced support when you hang wall art.

Ensure that the nails are slightly protruding; they should catch the frame securely at the two upper corners, preventing the canvas wall art from shifting.

Step 4: Hang the Painting

Carefully lift the painting and align it with the horizontal line and the nails or hooks. Ensure that each corner of the frame rests securely on the hooks or nails when you hang the painting.

Step 5: Adjust the Position

Step back to view the canvas wall art from various angles. Check that it is perfectly horizontal and positioned as desired. Adjust for levelness and straightness using the level tool again if needed when you hang a painting.

For those looking to save costs and who are confident in their DIY abilities, check out these 8 Easy DIY Large Wall Art Ideas for Beginners (including YouTube videos).

How To Hang Multiple Pieces Of Art On A Wall​

Adding multiple pieces of art to your walls can do more than just decorate a space; it can change the whole atmosphere. While a single piece of art can be striking, grouping several together gives a room warmth and character.

If you're still unsure about how to hang multiple pieces of art on a wall, keep reading for more guidance.

Use Paper Templates

Before you start installing a gallery wall , arrange your artworks on the floor. This allows you to experiment with different configurations and see what looks best. Consider symmetrical or asymmetrical layouts depending on your style preference.

Cut out paper templates that match the size of each artwork. Tape these templates to the wall to visualize the arrangement. This step helps in adjusting spacing without committing to nail holes immediately.

Start with the Largest Piece

If there's a variety of sizes, start with the largest piece and hang it at eye level. This artwork will act as the anchor around which you arrange the other pieces.

For galleries or linear arrangements, choose a center point and arrange the artwork symmetrically around it.

Keep It Consistent

Standard spacing between multiple pieces of art is about 2 to 3 inches (5-8 cm). This spacing might vary based on the total wall size and number of pieces but maintaining uniformity is key.

Align artworks by their centers or their edges, depending on which creates a more harmonious look.

Hanging Wall Art like a Pro

Hanging wall art like a pro means paying attention to the little details that really tie a room together. It’s about understanding how size, layout, lighting, frame materials, and color coordination can transform your space. Let’s break down these elements and show you how to hang your artwork in a way that brings out the best in your home. Ready to see how small touches can make a big difference? Let's get started!

Still wondering how to decorate a large wall? Aside from artwork, there are many other creative ways to enhance a blank wall.

Size And Proportion

When selecting an oil painting to decorate a room, size and proportion are crucial considerations. If a painting is too small, it may look lost and insignificant on a spacious wall, failing to capture attention or enhance the room's artistic appeal. Conversely, a painting that's too large can overwhelm the space, making the room feel cluttered or overly crowded.

 

 

Choosing the right size means ensuring the painting maintains good proportion with the wall it hangs on and the surrounding furniture. Ideally, a painting should cover about two-thirds of the wall width to achieve visual balance and aesthetic appeal.

Not sure how to pick the right size artwork? Read this article for a more detailed guide.

Wall Art Layouts

Wall art layouts give you plenty of choices to match your room's vibe and your own style. A popular method is the Single Central Piece, perfect for making a large oil painting the star of your room.

In spaces like dining rooms or conference rooms, hanging two matching paintings symmetrically can bring a nice, balanced feel.

For a Gallery Wall, which works great in hallways or staircases, you can show off a mix of art or photos. This setup is super flexible, letting you go for a neat or more eclectic arrangement, depending on how you want to hang your artwork.

Lighting Is Super Important

Lighting is super important when it comes to showing off your oil paintings. The right lights don't just make the artwork pop; they also bring out all the little details and colors. Think about using dedicated picture lights or adjustable ceiling fixtures that are made just for lighting up artwork.

These can be aimed right at your painting, making sure it looks its best when you hang it up. Whether you're hanging a single piece of canvas wall art or an entire gallery, good lighting can make a huge difference in how it all comes together.

Image: Pinterest

For home decor, sticking with 3000K is the way to go. They give off a warm glow that really makes a room feel cozy. Plus, when you hang up a hand-painted oil painting, this kind of light makes the brush strokes look extra soft and delicate, which just adds to the beauty of the piece.

Frame Materials and Colors

When you're picking out an oil painting to spruce up your place, finding the right frame is key. A good frame does more than just beautify the artwork; it ties it into your home’s overall vibe. Here are a few tips on how to nail the frame game for various home decor styles, making sure your art really stands out:

• Modern Minimalist Style: If your space rocks a clean, modern minimalist look, go for sleek metal or slim wooden frames in black, white, or gray. These kinds of frames will emphasize the artwork’s lines and colors while keeping everything looking sharp and tidy.
  

• Modern Farmhouse Style: Embrace a cozy, natural vibe with wooden frames, especially those with a raw or distressed finish in white or gray, will warm up your walls and make your canvas art feel right at home.
  

• Mid-Century Modern Style: If mid-century modern is your jam, smooth wooden or metal frames in warm walnut tones or retro copper will mesh perfectly with your furniture and add that cool vintage touch when you hang your artwork.
  

• Bohemian Style: For a room bursting with colors and eclectic vibes, opt for rough or handmade wooden frames. These can be colorful or keep it real with natural finishes, adding an exotic flair to your hanging art pieces.
  

• Coastal/Beach Style: Light wooden frames or relaxed white ones, maybe with some blue and white stripes, will boost that laid-back, holiday feel every time you hang a piece of artwork.

When hanging wall art, it’s super important to think about how the frame complements your space’s style and color scheme. The right frame not only boosts the art's look but also pulls your whole room together, making everything look cohesive and charming.

Color Coordination

When you hang a painting or canvas wall art, it’s all about making sure it fits right in with the vibe of your room. Think of it like picking an outfit for your space. You can start by pulling colors from around the room — the couch, curtains, even the rugs or throw pillows. 

When you hang wall art, aim for artwork that vibes with your furniture and matches or complements your room’s main colors. The style should feel like it belongs there, whether it echoes the room’s theme or adds a complementary touch. 

Basically, when you hang a painting, you're not just filling a gap on the wall; you’re tying the whole room together.

Explore Wall Art At KelorArt

With KelorArt, you have the freedom to customize the size, color, and design of your oil paintings right from our online gallery, making your artwork truly one-of-a-kind. We offer a collection of hand-painted oil paintings, with styles ranging from Modern Minimalist to Abstract and Wabi Sabi Wall Art. Our customization options allow you to choose the perfect piece to match your home décor. Don’t settle for ordinary – create a piece of art that’s uniquely yours. Contact us now to start your custom order and transform your walls today.