Are you struggling to figure out how to hang pictures on walls with high wainscoting?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many people find it challenging to hang art on walls with decorative moulding or trim.
But fear not, we’ve gathered some tips and tricks from experts to help you hang your pictures with ease.
In this article, we’ll cover everything from the proper height to hang your art to the best techniques for hanging heavy or large pieces.
So, let’s dive in and learn how to make your walls look beautiful with perfectly hung pictures!
How To Hang Pictures With High Wainscoting
When it comes to hanging pictures on walls with high wainscoting, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Firstly, the height at which you hang your art is crucial. As a general rule of thumb, the center of your picture or mirror should sit approximately 58-62 inches from the floor. However, if your wainscoting is higher than the standard 36 inches, you may need to adjust this guideline accordingly.
Another option is to hang your art a few inches above the wainscoting, treating it like a console or mantel. This will give your pictures some breathing room and prevent them from feeling cramped by the moulding.
If you’re hanging a larger piece of art, consider using a wire system like the Arakawa Hanging System. This will allow you to hang your picture over the edge of the trim without it sticking out at an awkward angle.
Alternatively, you can rest your artwork on the upper trim edge or on a piece of furniture in the room. For example, in a dining room with a plate edge, you could display your art on top of the wainscoting for a unique and eye-catching display.
Measuring The Height For Hanging Pictures On High Wainscoting
When measuring the height for hanging pictures on high wainscoting, it’s important to take into account the height of both the artwork and the wainscoting. As mentioned before, the general guideline is to hang the center of your picture or mirror approximately 58-62 inches from the floor. However, if your wainscoting is higher than the standard 36 inches, you may need to adjust this measurement accordingly.
To get a more accurate measurement, start by measuring the height of your wainscoting. Then, measure the height of your artwork from top to bottom. Add these two measurements together and divide by two. This will give you the center point of your picture or mirror.
For example, if your wainscoting is 42 inches high and your artwork is 24 inches high, you would add these two numbers together (42 + 24 = 66) and divide by two (66 ÷ 2 = 33). This means that the center of your picture or mirror should be approximately 33 inches from the floor.
If you prefer to hang your artwork a few inches above the wainscoting, simply add those additional inches to your measurement. For instance, if you want to hang your picture 4 inches above the top of your wainscoting, you would add this number to your previous calculation (33 + 4 = 37).
By taking these steps to measure the height for hanging pictures on high wainscoting, you can ensure that your artwork looks balanced and proportional in relation to both the wall and the trim.
Choosing The Right Hardware For Hanging Pictures On Wainscoting
When it comes to hanging pictures on wainscoting, choosing the right hardware is essential. The wrong hardware can damage your walls, cause your pictures to fall, or make them hang crookedly. Here are some options to consider:
1. Picture Hanging Hooks: These are small hooks that come with tiny nails that can support up to 50lbs of weight. They are easy to install and remove, leaving only a small hole in the wall. They work well for lightweight and medium-sized frames.
2. Anchors: Anchors come in several varieties and work well for light (less than 10 pounds) and medium loads (10 pounds to 25 pounds). Anchors designed to spread their “wings” are less susceptible to withdrawal and work better in plaster and masonry walls. When using anchors, drill a hole that allows a snug fit for the sleeve, tap it home with a hammer until the anchor flange seats against the surface, then fasten by driving a screw into the sleeve.
3. Wire System: A wire system like the Arakawa Hanging System is ideal for larger pieces of art. It allows you to hang your picture over the edge of the trim without it sticking out at an awkward angle.
When choosing hardware, consider the weight of your picture, the type of wall you’re hanging it on, and how high you want it to hang. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing hardware and make sure it’s securely in place before hanging your pictures.
How To Hang Small Pictures On Wainscoting
Hanging small pictures on wainscoting can be a bit tricky, but it’s definitely doable with the right tools and techniques. As mentioned earlier, the center of your picture should sit approximately 58-62 inches from the floor. For small pictures, this guideline still applies, but you can also consider grouping them together to create a larger display.
One way to hang small pictures on wainscoting is to use picture ledges. These are long shelves with a lip that allows you to prop up your pictures without having to hammer nails into the wall. This is a great option if you like to switch out your art frequently or if you want to create a gallery wall effect.
Another option is to use adhesive strips or hooks that are specifically designed for hanging pictures on walls. These are easy to use and won’t damage your wainscoting or walls. Just make sure you choose strips or hooks that are strong enough to hold the weight of your pictures.
If you prefer a more traditional approach, you can use picture hangers and nails. However, be sure to use a level to ensure that your pictures are straight and evenly spaced. This is especially important if you’re hanging multiple pictures in a row.
When it comes to arranging your pictures on the wainscoting, there are no hard and fast rules. You can create a symmetrical display by hanging two or more pictures side by side, or you can create an asymmetrical display by grouping pictures of different sizes and shapes together. The key is to experiment with different arrangements until you find one that looks balanced and visually appealing.
Hanging Large Or Heavy Pictures On Wainscoting
Hanging large or heavy pictures on wainscoting can be a bit more challenging, but there are still several options available.
For heavy pieces, it’s important to distribute the weight evenly to prevent damage to the wall or the artwork itself. One option is to use two long screws or picture hangers instead of one, which will help distribute the weight more evenly. For even heavier pieces, you can install D rings on either side of the frame and hook them over the screws.
If you’re hanging a mirror or a particularly heavy piece of art, you may need to use additional support. One option is to attach a scrap board to the studs behind the wainscoting and then use a Hangman picture hanger to attach the artwork to the board. The Hangman hanger is designed to hold up to 200 pounds and comes with a level for easy installation.
When hanging large or heavy pictures on wainscoting, it’s also important to consider the placement of any electrical fixtures or thermostats. While you can hide a doorbell box with art, covering up a thermostat can interfere with its ability to accurately read the temperature in your home.
Tips For Creating A Gallery Wall On Wainscoting
Creating a gallery wall on wainscoting can be a challenge, but with a little creativity, it can be done. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Choose the Right Art: When selecting art for your gallery wall, consider the size and shape of your wainscoting. If your wainscoting is tall and narrow, choose art that is also tall and narrow to complement it. Alternatively, you could opt for a mix of sizes and shapes to create an eclectic look.
2. Plan Your Layout: Before you start hanging your art, plan out your gallery wall layout on the floor first. This will give you an idea of how the pieces will look together and allow you to make any necessary adjustments before committing to hanging them on the wall.
3. Use Command Strips: If you’re hesitant about putting holes in your wainscoting, consider using Command Strips to hang your art instead. These strips are easy to use and won’t damage your walls.
4. Mix It Up: Don’t be afraid to mix different types of art on your gallery wall. You could include photographs, paintings, prints, and even three-dimensional objects like plates or sculptures.
5. Consider Lighting: Proper lighting can make all the difference when it comes to showcasing your artwork. Consider adding a picture light above each piece or installing track lighting along the top of your wainscoting to highlight your gallery wall.
By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and unique gallery wall on your wainscoting that will add personality and interest to your home.
How To Avoid Common Mistakes When Hanging Pictures On Wainscoting
When hanging pictures on wainscoting, there are a few common mistakes to avoid.
Firstly, avoid hanging your art too high or too low. As mentioned before, the center of your picture or mirror should sit approximately 58-62 inches from the floor. If your wainscoting is higher than the standard 36 inches, adjust accordingly or consider hanging your art a few inches above the wainscoting.
Another mistake to avoid is hanging your art too close to the edge of the wainscoting. This can make the picture feel cramped and unbalanced. Instead, try centering your art on the wall between two sections of wainscoting, or using a larger piece to fill the space.
Lastly, be mindful of the weight of your artwork and the type of hardware you use to hang it. Wainscoting is often made of wood and may not be able to support heavy frames or hardware that requires drilling into the trim. Consider using adhesive strips or wire systems like the Arakawa Hanging System for a secure and damage-free display.
By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully hang pictures on high wainscoting and create a beautiful and cohesive display in your home.