Adhesive D Rings For Picture Hanging? Best 75 Answer

How to hang your art with D rings

Before I started offering custom framed art to my clients, I was unfamiliar with the different types of art hardware. I’d seen sawtooth hangers and wire hangers, but I’d never seen D-rings alone, without wire, before.

Then I started working with our framer and learned all about the advantages of custom framing versus using off the shelf frames. One of the benefits was having the right hardware installed on the back. He recommends using D-rings without wire and hanging them on hooks. He explained how this method ensures your art hangs securely on the wall.

I went home and tried hanging my art with D rings for the first time. It was definitely a challenge to line them up, but I loved how much more secure the art was on the wall. So I was determined to find a method that would make hanging easier!

After a lot of research and practice, I now know how to hang D-rings perfectly horizontally without stress!

So I went ahead and made a step by step video showing exactly how I hang art with D rings so everyone can save themselves the frustration and 50 holes in the wall.

What you need:

Level (normal and/or laser)

hammer

2 hooks & nails

masking tape

tape measure

Pen

scissors

folding rule (optional)

Step 1: Take measurements

length of wall surface

length item no

Width Item no

Distance from the top of the art to the top of the D ring

Step 2: Use the formula to find the height measurement

*The correct height is very important. If you hang it too high, you will upset the proportions of the room. If you hang it too low it will be uncomfortable to see.

The correct height of your art should be 57 inches from the center of the piece to the floor.

The formula to use is:

57 inches

+

half length of your artwork (length ÷ 2)

–

Distance from the top of the piece to the top of the D-ring

=

Where to mark your wall to place the nail and hook.

Step 3: Masking Tape

Measure the height (formula solution) on your wall with your tape measure and mark the height with a piece of masking tape.

Then take the masking tape and place it across the back of your piece onto the D-rings.

Cut the masking tape to the exact width of your piece.

Step 4: Mark your masking tape

Use a pencil to make a dot on the masking tape just below the top of the D-ring. (This is where the bottom of the hook will go)

Step 5: Figure out where you want to center your piece on the wall

Measurement of distance from wall – width of piece ÷ 2 = how much space on either side of the artwork.

I take this measurement and cut two pieces of tape. I then place it on either side to see exactly where my art will be. I then take the masking tape from the back of my art (being careful not to tear the backing) and place it between the two side pieces.

Step 6: Create Level

I used my laser level to make sure the laser goes straight through both points.

*If you don’t have a laser level and only have a standard level, use the standard level to ensure the masking tape is perfectly straight. I do this by placing the spirit level on the masking mount and adjusting the tape inch by inch to make sure it’s level.

Step 7: Hammer in Nail & Hook

Place the bottom of the hook directly on the point and hammer in the nail. Repeat on both sides.

Step 8: Hang Your Art

Lastly, hang your art on the hooks and use the default layer to check if it’s level. If so, take your piece down and remove the masking tape. Re-hang your piece!

Frame D-rings (formerly also known as strap hangers) are the ubiquitous method of creating an attachment point behind picture frames or other objects to be hung. The frame D-rings are manufactured by a leading supplier to the frame hardware industry. The Frame D-Ring can be placed in the center of the back of each picture frame or two can be mounted, one on each frame side rail.

Once installed, they can be used directly by our hanging hooks or a wire can be stretched between two of them. If you are installing the frame D-ring on a frame that will be used on a hanging system, consider placing it very high on the frame’s side rails, rather than the usual 1/3 down from the top of the frame. This allows the picture frames to hang closer to the wall. This is particularly useful when the frame is covered with hanging wire. If you decide to attach a suspension wire to the back of a frame and intend to use a suspension system, we also recommend loosening the suspension wire. Feel free to read How to, Part 1: Hanging Framed Art and How to, Part 2: Manage Face Forward.

We offer three sizes of D-ring hangers. Please refer to the table below for compatibility with our hooks.

Sold per 50

AS recommended by leading experts and your neighbors!

Let us support you with your project!

The best way to hang heavy pictures used to be using nails. Unfortunately, this method results in holes in the wall that disfigure the wall and compromise its integrity. Fortunately, there are now nail-free options for hanging heavy pictures.

Any of these alternatives will effectively mount your heavy paintings on walls without damage. Enough talking already. Let’s dive in!

1. Use picture hanging strips

Picture hanging rails are a great way to hang heavy pictures without having to use nails. Some of them, like these 3M Command Strips, are designed to support photos weighing up to 7.26 kg. Using this option to hang a heavy picture is pretty easy.

You could quickly buy the strips online and offline stores that specialize in hardware, accessories, or crafts. However, removing the heavy pictures after hanging with this option may require stripping wallpaper or paint used as wall covering.

However, to hang a heavy picture with these hanging rails, do the following:

Remove any hanging parts in the area where you plan to hang the heavy picture. This is because the picture hanging strips are self-adhesive and therefore require a clean, flat surface to function properly. Remove any hardware protruding from the back of the image. This includes screws, nails, wire, sawtooth fasteners, or pretty much anything that affects the smoothness of the surface between the wall and the picture. Clean the surfaces after removing all obstacles. The idea is to wipe down the back of the heavy image and the wall to the point where both surfaces are as smooth as possible. An excellent way to do this is using some isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth. Attach the picture hanging adhesive strips after the surfaces are dry. When doing this you will want to press the 2 different sides together for each set of strips you are using. Remove the foil for each group. Press the adhesive onto the back of the image for at least 30 seconds. Do this until you have attached all the strips needed for the hanging process. Once you have finished attaching the picture hanging rails, attach the photo to the wall. To do this, remove the protective film(s) from the strips. Then press the picture against the wall. Isolate the strips you have in the picture from the ones you attached to the wall. You can do this by slowly dragging the bottom corners of the photo while lifting the image. Then use your fingers to press the strips against the wall for about 30 seconds. Let things sit for about an hour. After this time, put the picture back on the wall by aligning the strips with the picture.

There is no one size fits all picture hanging strip so what you use will depend on the weight of the photos you are hanging and we know this will vary. So read the instructions before you start.

2. Hang them up with adhesive hooks or nails

Well, this option is one of the best ways to get your pictures on your walls without having to use “regular” nails. The thing about self-adhesive hooks and nails is that they’re a simple, effective, and pocket-friendly way to hang heavy pictures without messing up the wall.

They come with adhesive pieces designed to stick to walls. That means you can hang heavy pictures without removing the hardware (nails, screws and so on) that were used to hang the picture. The only caveat is that the type of hardware in the picture would determine whether you chose the adhesive hook or the nails.

Another thing to keep in mind is the weight of the image. You see, adhesive nails and hooks have a certain weight depending on their size. So in some cases you may need to use more than one hook or nail. It all depends on the size of the adhesives and the weight of the picture. In any case, make sure that you distribute it evenly when hanging the picture.

Once this is done, the first step to using adhesive hooks and nails is to clean the wall as adhesive hooks and nails need clean surfaces to work properly. So you want to clean the wall with some isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth.

Allow both surfaces to dry. Then prepare the adhesive hook or nail by removing the protective film on the adhesive strip before attaching it to the hook or nail, whichever you choose.

Then attach the adhesive hook or nail to the wall where you have already cleaned. Then press the glue against that spot for about 30 seconds.

Let the glue dry for an hour. Once that’s done, you can hang your pictures using whatever hook or nail you set up.

3. Use press-in hooks

Press-in hooks are another great way to hang a heavy picture without worrying about nails damaging the wall. They are designed to hang pictures weighing up to 68.04 kg when used properly.

No bolts or other installation tools are required. The only downside is that you may have to drill a pinhead sized hole. You may need to use more than one if the picture you are hanging is that heavy. Also, you may have a problem choosing which one is best for you.

Snap hooks come in a variety of materials and are rated for different weights, so your choice may be guided by the weight and type of picture you are hanging.

So before you decide on push-in hooks, you should be aware of the weight of the picture and find a hook with the right material. You also need to make sure it’s okay to drill that tiny hole in the wall.

Now that you have found the correct size of the press-in hooks, here are the steps to attach the hooks:

Insert the long, curved, tapered end of the hook through your wall (it’s best for drywall). Do this until most of the hook is in the wall. Set it up so that you have the small hook on the outside in a position to hang things. Keep doing this until it’s all in. Make sure you have the right number of hooks that can support the weight of the picture. You also need to make sure they are evenly spaced. So, in cases where you need more than one press-in hook, make sure you take some care. Find out the width of the image. Then divide it into 3 or 4 depending on your hooks and how heavy the picture is. Continue placing these hooks at the exact measurements according to the division you made.

4. Decide on mounting glue

Hanging heavy pictures with mounting glue is the easiest option as it requires little or no effort. And all this in just a few minutes.

The assembly adhesive is a silicone-like paste. Often sold in tubes like toothpaste, it leaves no marks on surfaces when used correctly. That is why this option is great for walls made of tiles or glass.

Here are the steps for hanging heavy pictures with mounting glue:

Apply a drop of mounting glue to each corner of the painting. Hold the picture against the wall for a moment before removing it. The idea is to leave some of the adhesive on the wall. Once the paste on the wall has dried a little (but not completely), hold the picture up to the wall a second time. This time you want to match the image to the glue residue on the wall. Press the picture firmly to the wall (not too hard if it’s a glass wall). If you got the process right, the photo should stay in place after you leave it.

5. Use double-sided tape

Double-sided tape allows you to hang awkward pictures without using nails. Duct tape is stronger than it looks and comes in a variety of sizes and weights. Some tapes can even hang pictures weighing up to 8.16kg!

Remember, it’s always good to buy a ribbon that’s larger than the weight of the painting. In some cases you may need to use more than one strip.

These tapes work best on tile walls. The reason for this is that they often leave marks on different types of walls, and the idea isn’t to deface walls, right?

Here are the steps for hanging heavy pictures with double-sided tape:

Cut the tape for the 4 corners of the picture frame. Attach the strips to the back of the frame. Before holding the picture where you want the picture to be, peel off the tape. Take your time deciding where to hang your picture as it is quite difficult to change its position once it is fixed to the wall. Press the picture firmly against the wall for a moment before releasing it. It’s a great option because it’s pretty easy once you follow the instructions.

6. Consider using guides or rails

Well, this is an excellent option if you want an eye-catching effect. The reason for this is that in museums and galleries one mostly finds pictures that are hung on guides and rails. You can achieve a unique aesthetic effect without marring the walls if you get it right.

Only guide rails have to be attached to the wall or ceiling. Then you attach the picture to the wire that protrudes from the guide rail. It’s that simple. You may need to drill some small holes for this. Nowhere, however, will the gaps be as large as with nails.

By using guide rails, you can change pictures as often as possible without worrying about adhesives sticking to the wall and the like. Also, there’s something about a gallery-like way of hanging your pictures.

You may also want to read: 5 Command Strip Alternatives for Hanging Decor on Walls

Conclusion

You can hang heavy pictures without nails with these alternatives:

Hanging stripes

Adhesive hooks or nails

press-in hook

Installation glue

adhesive strips

guides or rails

With every option detailed in this article, you no longer have to worry about defacing walls or possible accidents when using nails. These nail-free options ensure you can hang your pictures as easily, affordably and conveniently as you like.

If you want your pictures to stand out, I recommend using guides or rails to hang your pictures. This technique will help you create a unique gallery-like effect without defacing the walls.

A D ring is a ring shaped like the letter D.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg…

While researching the best way to hang my mirror, I found that D-rings are used in a variety of ways and come in many different sizes and materials.

Hanging something on the wall sounds pretty easy until finding the right hardware becomes a guessing game. D-rings, cleats, sawtooth hangers, oh my…even if you narrowed it down to a sawtooth hanger, which one do you use?

If you’re considering a sawtooth hanger, there’s a good reason. These little guys are some of the most popular on the back of something that’s meant to be hung on the wall. Sawtooth hangers are easy to install, offer excellent hanging flexibility and are economical.

After a dozen years of working with these slightly intimidating looking hangers, we’re happy to say we can tell you everything you need to know about sawtooth hangers and more.

So, let’s get into that…

First, what exactly is a sawtooth hanger?

Sawtooth hangers are small strips of metal with a flat edge on one side and a serrated edge on the other. In other words, they look exactly like saws. They work best for wooden framed pictures and artworks that weigh less than 25 pounds.

Sawtooth picture hangers come in all shapes and sizes. Some sawtooth hangers can be attached to the top rail of the frame with nails or screws, while others have prongs that can be hammered directly onto the frame.

Here’s what you need to know about the different types of sawtooth hangers:

Different types of sawtooth brackets

Nailless Sawtooth Hangers – These are self-attaching hangers for wood frames that do not require nails or screws. If you have a lot of frames to hang, using these frames can be a good option to save time. You have the choice between nailless sawtooth brackets with a black oxide or silver zinc plated finish.

Sawtooth Hangers with Screws – This type of sawtooth hanger is more secure than nailless hangers because they use screws. This means they are ideal for slightly heavier pieces of art such as framed pictures, mirrors and canvas prints. You can choose between small, large and robust sawtooth brackets with screws.

Snap-In Sawtooth Metal Frames and Metal Frame Notch Hangers – While most sawtooth hangers are for wood frames, this variation works specifically for metal frames. Simply snap it into the metal frame channel for a snug, secure fit.

Plastic Sawtooth Adhesive – These are clear plastic hanging tabs with a strong adhesive that can hold 3 pounds. They usually come in packs of 10, 30 and 100, but if you have a lot of hanging material or need to have a supply you can order quantities of up to 1000 here on the site. These self-adhesive plastic sawtooth hangers are great for hanging ultra-lightweight objects like foam board, frosted artwork and maps.

How to hang a picture with sawtooth hangers

Hanging a picture with sawtooth hangers is quick and easy. You only need the following:

Steps 1-3 are all about attaching the hanger to the back of your frame. Steps 4-5 is about hanging it on the wall.

Let us begin!

Lay the frame face down on a flat surface. You can place a blanket under the frame to soften the blow when you attach the sawtooth. Make sure the jagged side is facing down while the flat side stays up.

Measure the top rail of the frame and find the middle. Note it down for reference. The saw tooth bracket is attached there.

PRO TIP: Use a piece of tape to hold the sawtooth bracket in place while you hammer or screw it onto the frame.

For nailless sawtooth hangers, you can go ahead and knock them down. Attach the screws to the screw sawtooth hangers with a screwdriver.

To hang it on the wall, think about where you want to hang your frame and leave a mark. Drill a hole that matches the size of your anchor. Then insert the screw or nail. Don’t forget to leave ⅛ inch of thread loose so you can hang the frame.

Hang it up and admire your work. Don’t forget to use a layer to straighten your frames!

Sawtooth hangers are generally easy to use, but you might want to keep these do’s and don’ts in mind when working with sawtooth picture hanging hardware.

DOS

Check if the item is within the sawtooth hanger weight limit.

Most sawtooth hangers are only suitable for lightweight pictures and artwork weighing 25 pounds or less. However, we do have a special heavy-duty hanger that can hold up to 250 lbs.

Use the right tool to attach the bracket to your frame.

This might sound a little redundant, but you’d be surprised how many people end up damaging their frames just because they didn’t use the right tool when attaching sawtooth brackets. However, if you are using a sawtooth bracket with screws, use a screwdriver. If it comes with nails, use a hammer. Note that this hardware is typically small and may be more difficult to manage. So, be extra careful when using these tools.

PRO TIP: You can use painter’s tape to tap off smaller nails without hitting your fingers with a hammer. Here’s how:

Choose a nail with a head over a nail with a nail on the wall.

Confused about which of the 2 nails on the wall to use? Opt for the head nail for added security. The head of the nail acts as a stopper, preventing the frame from falling. Make sure the nail is firmly seated in the wall, then position the frame so it snaps securely onto the sawtooth.

Use 2-3 sawtooth hangers if frame is longer than 2 feet (24 inches).

This is to keep larger frames more stable and level. If using two, attach one evenly on each side. If using three, attach one on the left, one in the middle, and one on the right.

NOTHING

Do not attach sawtooth hangers to picture frames that weigh more than 25 pounds.

Always remember that pound ratings are not cumulative. It’s a big word, but don’t panic. This simply means you can’t use 2 regular sawtooth hangers for a 40lb picture. We recommend using the heavy duty sawtooth hangers instead. Not sure which hangers to use? Check out the weight chart provided below.

Don’t worry too much about finding a wall stud to tap into.

Usually picture frames with sawtooth hangers are light enough to skip the bolt. But if you could get the nail or screw into the wall stud, go ahead. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Do not use sawtooth hangers for massive and expensive artworks, especially those intended for display in art galleries and museums.

In fact, most galleries will not accept framed art with sawtooth hangers. Professional hangers would say the correct hanging method is to use D-rings and J-hooks. Museums additionally secure their frames with a patch plate, a device that prevents them from moving and falling off the wall during an earthquake.

How to find the right saw tooth bracket

When looking for the right sawtooth hanger, weight plays an important role. It will help you determine the type of hanging device you should use. Check out this weight guide to help you choose the right hanger.

To find the right sawtooth hanger, you should first consider the weight class and sawtooth size that suits your frame. We recommend using a picture hanger with a weight limit that exceeds the weight of your picture, art or wall decoration.

Once you have these numbers, you can determine the correct type of wall mount.

Using the wrong hangers and fasteners will not hold your frames securely and can cause your frames to fall on the floor. It is even more dangerous with a heavy mirror or painting. Not only will it cause an accident, but expensive parts will also be destroyed.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to hanging lightweight wooden frames, you know you can count on sawtooth hangers for a quick and easy fix. You just need to find the right one based on 3 things: weight, size and mounting type. Hopefully, knowing all of this will make your picture hanger hunt feel more like a fun shopping spree than a guessing game.

We hope these tips have helped you liven up your blank walls with ease! If you have any questions, let us know in the comments below.

Wire and D-rings are the best hardware for hanging a picture because they are not only strong but easy to install and adjust. There are three types of picture cables. Choosing the right type depends on how large your image is.

Braided: As the name suggests, this is made up of strands of galvanized steel that have been braided together. Braided wire is easy to cut and tie. It is sold in different thicknesses. The thicker the wire, the heavier the image it can carry – up to a maximum of 36 pounds.

: As the name suggests, this is made up of strands of galvanized steel that have been braided together. Braided wire is easy to cut and tie. It is sold in different thicknesses. The thicker the wire, the heavier the image it can carry – up to a maximum of 36 pounds. Stainless Steel: Made from strands of steel twisted together under tension, this picture wire is stronger than braided wire but less flexible. It is best suited for hanging very large, heavy frames up to 100 pounds.

: Composed of steel strands twisted together under tension, this pictorial wire is stronger than braided wire but less flexible. It is best suited for hanging very large, heavy frames up to 100 pounds. Vinyl Coated: This is a stainless steel picture wire with a soft vinyl outer layer. It’s gentler on hands and delicate hanging surfaces, but almost as strong as stainless steel. It can hang pictures up to 60 pounds.

D-rings look a bit like a belt buckle attached to a strip of metal with screw holes. They are designed to be flush mounted to the back of the picture frame. The rings themselves point inward to connect the length of picture wire. Like picture wire, D-rings come in a variety of sizes; The heavier your artwork, the larger the rings.

Disclosure: We may receive commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Sometimes you find that your picture frame doesn’t have a hanging wire on the back. What is the best way to hang the picture in this case? We’ve looked at a few ways that work. In this post, we will share each one with you.

Here are some of the best ways you can hang a picture without wires:

Install D-rings

Install a few screws

Use foam tape

Install a sawtooth bracket

Use plastic clips

Picture frames come in all shapes and sizes. They can also come with different types of straps, some of which may not include wire. Regardless of the size of the frame, there are numerous ways to hang it without a frame. Read on to learn more about these methods.

Methods of hanging picture frames without wire

Install D-rings

You can usually add a couple of D-rings to hang it on the wall if your picture frame doesn’t have a hanging wire. D-rings are small metal D-shaped hooks that attach to the back of your picture frame. They’re fairly inexpensive, typically ranging from $5 to $20 for a pack. You will likely need a small screwdriver to drill them into the frame. After attaching the D-ring to the frame, you can attach it to a nail on the wall.

Check out this D-ring set on Amazon.

Install a few screws

This method is more of a DIY technique that you can use if you don’t have hanging wire available. With this method, you attach the screws directly to the back of the frame. These small screws can be drilled into the frame in seconds, only two are needed for light picture frames. However, if your picture frame is on the larger side, it may need up to six for solid support. It’s important to note that you don’t want to drill the screws all the way in when drilling into the frame.

Once the screws are in place, grab a piece of twine, dental floss, or even a shoelace to wrap the screws on the ends. Next you hang the picture on the wall. You can also use this method in combination with D-rings and place a middle screw in the back center of the frame.

Find Bear Claw Screw Sets on Amazon.

Use foam tape

If your picture frame is on the lighter side, you can tape it to the wall as well. Remember, this isn’t your everyday packaging or tape—and the ladder can actually damage your walls. This double-sided tape is made of foam and sticks to multiple surfaces including painted walls, brick, wood and wallpaper.

Be sure to follow the instructions on the tape carefully to ensure the frame adheres properly. When using this tape it is important to remember to press the tape firmly onto the picture frame to form a strong and secure bond.

Read more about this indoor foam mounting tape on Amazon.

Install a sawtooth bracket

You’ve probably seen sawtooth hangers on picture frames or artwork. These small metal clips have serrated edges at the bottom that allow you to hang them on a nail or screw them to the wall. If your picture frame does not come with a hanging wire, you can attach a sawtooth hanger to the back of the frame. Sawtooth hangers can be attached to both large and small picture frames.

However, it is important to note that the hangers require two small screws for installation. So if your frame is on the smaller side, say less than 18 square inches, it may be a good idea to glue the hangers onto the frame. You should use a strong bonding glue like Gorilla Glue or Krazy Glue.

Check out this sawtooth hanger set on Amazon.

Use plastic clips

Plastic clips are another great alternative to hanging picture frames. These clips are very similar to cable clips, but instead have two or three screws housed in a plastic block. The plastic block acts as an anchor that supports the weight of the picture frame. The clips are a great option for images up to a pound or two.

However, it’s always best to check the recommendations to ensure the clips are strong enough to support the weight of the frame. You can typically attach two to six hooks to a single picture frame. Remember that the clips will attach to all sides of the frame, not just the top.

You can find plastic clips on Amazon.

How do you attach wire to a picture frame?

There are a few ways you can attach wire to a picture frame. Here’s a method you can use to ensure your wall art is stable and secure.

Things you will need:

hanging wire

A pencil

needle nose pliers (optional)

A wire cutter

D rings

A drill

Small screws

attaching the wire

Start by choosing the correct gauge of wire required for the size and weight of the picture frame. For example, if the picture frame is over 24 square inches, you will need a larger measurement than if the picture frame is only 12 square inches. Next, lay the picture frame face down on a flat work surface. Take your tape measure and measure all four sides of the frame. Then put a mark on the back of the frame where the holes for the hardware go. The mark should be at least 1/4 of the way down from the left and right sides of the frame. Take your D-rings and line them up with all the marks you made on the back of the picture frame. Use the D-rings as a guide to place marks on where to drill holes. After you’ve made all your drill marks, drill shallow pilot holes in each area. You’ll want to be extra careful when doing this, as you don’t want to break the frame during the process. This method works better with wooden picture frames than metal picture frames – metal frames usually have grooves on the back to allow for wire hanging. Next, grab your D-rings and place them over the pilot holes and screw them in by hand – don’t use a drill for this step. Now cut your picture frame’s wire to fit the width of the space between the D-rings and leave at least five to three inches of slack. Use your wire threader to thread the wire through both D-rings. Make sure each ring has the same amount of play. Use your wire threader to wrap the wire around each D-ring, bending and looping the end and tying a small knot. Then pull the middle of the wire towards the top of the picture frame, giving it enough slack to hang. Next, gently tug on the wire to make sure it’s stable.

How much weight can a picture wire withstand?

Image wire can be available in a variety of gauges. Thin picture wire that is small gauge and typically holds pictures weighing less than a pound. Larger gauges can hold up to 100 pounds, especially if the wire is braided and galvanized. The image wire packaging lists the maximum weight that the wire can support.

Read more about this braided picture wire on Amazon.

Can you hang pictures with command hooks?

Yes, you can hang pictures with command hooks. The amount of support provided by command hooks depends on the type of hook you have. While some hooks can hold up to one to three pounds, larger hook mount options can hold up to eight pounds.

Learn more about Command Hooks on Amazon.

How do you hang a floating glass picture frame?

Most floating glass picture frames come with either a sawtooth bracket or D-rings and wire attached to the back of the frame. To hang the picture, you need to find a spot on the wall and mark the area with a pencil. Next, drive a nail or screw into the wall and hang the picture.

pack things

We hope this post has shown you the different ways you can hang a picture frame without wire. Remember, it’s important to determine how much support you need for the picture frame before deciding on the best hanging option.

Before you go, check out our other posts:

How to choose artwork for the living room

12 great living room floor plans you need to see

Weigh your image

The first step is to find out how much your picture weighs. You can use a bathroom scale for this. If your picture weighs less than 10 pounds, it is considered lightweight and most hanging solutions should work. However, in order not to damage your walls, see our article on how to hang pictures without nails. For pictures weighing more than 10 pounds, you must use a wall stud or track rail or learn more about the different hanging solutions below.

How heavy can a picture be to hang on drywall?

Interior walls are usually built from a wooden structure with some form of cladding. In older houses (especially before 1940) plasterboard wall was often used. Drywall is the most commonly used material in modern homes, so you’ll likely be hanging heavy pictures on drywall.

As a rule of thumb, pictures weighing less than 5 pounds can be hung with hanging rails, self-adhesive wall hooks, or mounting tape. For pictures that weigh between 5 and 20 pounds, plastic drywall anchors are a good option, and for pictures between 20 and 50 pounds, you can use a metal wall anchor or definitely use a wall stud. For something heavier or a good all-round solution for hanging multiple pictures, use a rail cable hanging kit.