A picture hanging kit provides the necessary components to securely mount framed artwork using a length of wire. This method is often preferred over simple sawtooth hangers, especially for heavier or larger pieces, because the wire system distributes the load more evenly across the frame’s rails. The adjustable nature of the wire also makes leveling the artwork easier. Successfully using this kit requires a methodical approach to hardware placement, wire tension, and wall mounting to ensure the frame hangs safely and rests flush against the wall.
Attaching the Frame Hardware
Preparation begins by securing the attachment points for the wire directly onto the frame’s back rails. Use D-rings, screw eyes, or specialized plates, selecting hardware with a weight capacity higher than the frame itself. The placement of this hardware affects how the final piece hangs and rests against the wall.
To achieve optimal balance and a minimal forward tilt, position the hardware approximately one-third of the way down from the top edge of the frame. For example, on a 30-inch frame, the attachment point should be about 10 inches down from the top. Mark this measurement on both vertical sides of the frame with a pencil.
After marking the locations, create small pilot holes using a drill bit slightly smaller than the hardware’s screws to prevent the wood from splitting. Fasten the D-rings or screw eyes securely, ensuring they are level with each other. Angle the hardware slightly inward toward the center of the frame, which helps the wire pull the frame snugly against the wall.
Securing and Sizing the Hanging Wire
This step involves calculating the wire length and securing it with a knot that will not slip under tension. Select a braided picture wire rated to hold at least twice the total weight of your framed piece. Cut a length of wire that is roughly one and a half to two times the width of your frame to provide sufficient material for securing.
Thread the wire through the first D-ring, leaving a “tail” of about six inches of excess wire. To create a secure knot, wrap this tail end tightly around the main section of the wire at least five to seven times. This spiral wrap prevents the wire from unraveling under the frame’s load.
Stretch the main wire across the back of the frame to the second attachment point, leaving the correct amount of slack for proper hanging. When the center of the wire is pulled taut, the apex should reach a point approximately two inches below the top edge of the frame. If the wire is too tight or too loose, the hanging will be compromised. Once the slack is correct, secure the wire to the second D-ring using the same five-to-seven-wrap technique and trim any excess wire.
Mounting the Wired Picture
With the wire securely attached, the focus shifts to preparing the wall for a level, stable hang. The choice of wall hardware must exceed the picture’s weight capacity and be appropriate for the wall material. For instance, a specialized drywall anchor is necessary for a heavy piece, while a simple nail may suffice for lightweight art.
To precisely locate where the wall hardware must be installed, first hold the picture against the wall at the desired height and mark the top center of the frame with a light pencil line. Next, measure the “drop point” of the wire—the distance from the top edge of the frame down to the highest point of the taut wire.
Transfer this measurement down from your pencil line on the wall to mark the precise location for the wall hook or anchor. Install the selected hardware at this mark, ensuring it is angled slightly upward to resist the downward force of the wire.
Carefully lift the framed picture and position the wire over the wall hook. Allow the frame to settle, then use a bubble level along the top edge to make slight horizontal adjustments until it is perfectly straight. For added stability and to prevent the frame from marking the wall, apply small adhesive rubber bumpers to the back of the frame’s bottom corners.