Hanging pictures can be an easy task, or your worst nightmare. To keep you sane (and safe) here’s my best secrets for hanging pictures safely and getting it right the first time. From how high to hang your pictures to where to place the hooks, this may finally settle the argument over how high to hang the picture.

On the Wall | To hang a picture at “eye-level” it should be 60” from the floor to the center of the picture. One of the most common decorating mistakes is hanging the pictures too high. That throws off the proportions of the room and creates an uncomfortable feeling. The 5’ rule unifies the artwork throughout the house gives the home a designer look.

Over the Mantle | The perfect distance between the mantle and picture is 7”. Ultra-high ceilings could tempt one to hang a picture too high but it’s important to keep the art connected to the rest of the room. The 7” rule also works as a guideline for installing art over sofa.

Two is better than one | Use two hooks for pictures wider than 36” or art hung near doors that may be need help staying level when doors close. Pictures or mirrors weighing more than 25 pounds need two hooks to share the weight. Picture hooks, like we use at the gallery are specially designed to support weight in drywall without the support of a wall stud. Hooks should be placed apart at a distance equal to 1/3 the width of the frame. Drywall anchor screws add extra security for heavy mirrors and oversized frames. Avoid wire on the heavy pictures and opt for D-rings hangers for safety.

Size Matters | If you’re wondering what size the picture should be, consider this rule; the art should be 2/3 the width of sofa. Typically, the picture should not be longer than the furniture it’s hanging over.

Mind the Light | Light is arts most dangerous enemy. Ultra-violet light from windows or fluorescent bulbs can cause irreversible damage. Protect art and photos with specially coated UV-blocking glass and for irreplaceable art take care to hang it on an interior wall protected from sunlight.

A large portion of the work we do is providing clients with our unique expertise for installing art properly and safely. We are ready to assist with friendly advice, proper hardware or let us do the hanging for you.