Home Decorating with Paintings Other Pieces of Art

Dad always said to use the right tools for the right job. If you've purchased an original painting or photograph, even a framed print, to replace that dorm-days Scarface poster, treat it like the piece of art it is. Instead of nails or thumbtacks, use the right hardware to protect your walls and the works. You will need: a friend to help with the hanging, the measurements of your walls, a soft pencil, picture hooks with tacks, and a level. If your piece doesn't have hardware attached, you'll also need D-rings, small screws and a screwdriver, and a length of double-braided wire.

Choose a primary wall to highlight the art. By cutting a piece of butcher paper the same dimensions as the picture, you'll be able to practice placing the size in different locations. Regardless of the size of the piece, allow at least 4" between the top and the ceiling and allow 6 to 8" between the bottom and any furniture placed against the wall. Smaller pieces should be hung so that a person of average height will be eye-level with the piece's center. Before hanging, consider factors which may damage the work. Moisture in kitchens and bathrooms, heat and soot from the fireplace, and direct sunlight can be destructive to delicate pieces of art. Once you've determined placement, follow these easy steps:

1. Attach hardware if needed. If a piece is framed, the D-rings should be attached to the sides (not the top) of the frame. If you are shaky about putting in the screws, take it to a professional framer.
2. Measure from the ceiling to where you'd like the painting to hang.
3. Holding the wire a foot apart with two fingers from each hand, have a friend measure from your fingers to the top of the piece.
4. Add these two measurements. Mark the wall at the sum, and then mark 6" to the left and right. Adjust spacing for larger pieces.
5. Position and hammer in picture hooks at the right and left marks, using the level if necessary.
6. Carefully lift the painting, and ensure that the wire catches on both hooks.
7. Use a level to ensure the hung piece is perfect.

Remember, it's always better to adjust a painting higher than lower. That way you can hide any erroneous holes. Artwork is fragile and should be handled carefully. You may wish to have protective backing boards attached to stretcher of paintings to preserve against environmental changes and add stability. Dust unframed art with soft bristle paintbrush or makeup brush dedicated to that purpose. Never spray glass cleaner directly on glass, as it can pool underneath and permanently mar the art. Just use a little common sense, and as mom says "Until you treat the things you already have nicely, you can't have anything new."