When it comes to home improvement, there is a huge amount to be said for knowing how to do things under your own steam. With this in mind you should think about the individual things that you would like to be able to do, look up how to get it done, and then just get on with it. The best way to learn these things is to try them, but go slowly, as there are aspects of most jobs like this that will leave you with damage that could be costly to undo if you mess it up.
Here’s a step by step guide to hanging a picture or a mirror, as well as some extra hints on doing different things with the hanging arrangements of various wall hangings.
For a start, you need the right tools. For lighter wall hangings, you will need picture hooks or tacks, a hammer, a tape measure and a spirit level. Most frames will have either hanging wire or a central clip on them, where the hook will hold the frame. If you are hanging a really heavy frame or mirror, then you need to work out what kind of fastening you are going to use. If you are mounting things on a stud wall, then you will need a stud finder and screws, if you are going in to masonry, then you will need a masonry drill and rawl plugs. These two more heavy duty fittings will need to be researched independently, as getting them wrong can make a real mess!
Measure up the area where you want the picture, and try to think about it’s position in context with the rest of the room’s features. Are there any lines made by other pictures, windows or doors? Do you want to match the lines of the hanging against the other lines, or centralize the picture along a common line? Most people tend to find a line around the room at eye level, and hang their images with the centre of the picture at that point, with the images equally distanced. However, if you have lots of art to hang, then it can be nice to play with the way in which it sits together, aligning the frame lines and the playing with grouping. Have a friend hold up the frame where you think you want it, and mark the corners with pencil that can be rubbed off.
From these markings, you need to measure up where the picture hook is going. You will find that the hook is usually a little way down from the top of the frame, so factor this in to your measurements. Find the closest point of reference and make measurements form vertical and lateral areas, to ensure that you are spot in. Nail in the hook carefully, making sure that you don;t hit the wall, your fingers, or the actual hook bit, and you should find that it feels pretty secure straight away. Hang your picture up, and with the spirit level on top, shift it form side to side, until it is totally lelve, the buble sitting right between the lines. Pictures being straight is important, and wonky wall hangings can make things look really off in a room, so attention to detail is key!
Mia Rogers is dedicated blogger and freelance writer, with great flair for home maintenance projects. She likes helping homeowners and housewives conquer every kind of additional ideas and tips for managing their every-day household activities. Her greatest inspiration are any kind of interior design, home decorating and remodeling matters. Get some more helpful tips here: Wimbledon upholstery cleaning
