How to frame and hang paintings

The frame can really enhance the oil painting and give a more finished look to the oil painting. The frame can define the boundaries of the piece of art. The marriage of a frame with an oil painting may be harmonious or discordant, enhancing, or distracting. A poorly chosen frame can ruin the appearance of the oil painting, while an appropriate one can really make it glow.

Here are seven lesser-known tips, tricks, and hacks for hanging pictures on the wall.

There are a great many different styles, colors, and price ranges of frames to choose from. Cheap ones are made in moulded plastic and more expensive ones, are carved in wood. The best way to pick a frame is to offer it up to the frame in the framer’s shop. The final choice of the frame depends on the owner’s personal taste, the proposed location of the oil painting, the harmony between the oil painting and frame, and the relationship of the frame to the room where it will hang.

With modern art, you may choose to hang your oil painting without a frame or if the painting is on a box frame.

Providing that the stretcher is solid and reasonably thick, then the oil painting can be wired to hang without a frame. This unframed approach to exhibiting modern oil paintings means that the viewer focuses entirely on the artwork itself.

How to frame and hang paintings

Framing and hanging paintings can greatly enhance their aesthetic appeal while protecting them from damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to framing and hanging paintings:

1. Choose a suitable frame: Select a frame that complements the style, size, and subject of your painting. Consider factors such as the color, material, and design of the frame.
2. Measure the painting: Measure the dimensions of your painting, including the height and width. Use a measuring tape to ensure accuracy.
3. Prepare the materials: Gather all the necessary materials, including the frame, mounting hardware (screws, hooks, or wire), a hammer or screwdriver, a pencil, a level, and a hanging wire (if needed).
4. Prepare the painting: Before framing, ensure that your painting is clean and dry. If required, varnish or protect the painting according to its medium (oil, acrylic, watercolor, etc.). Ensure the painting is properly stretched or mounted on a sturdy surface.
5. Assemble the frame: If your frame comes in separate pieces, carefully follow the instructions to assemble it. Place the painting face down on a soft, clean surface.
6. Mount the painting: Position the painting inside the frame, ensuring it is centered. Use small metal or plastic brackets, spring clips, or framing points to secure the painting in place. These can be found at art supplies or framing stores.
7. Attach hanging hardware: Flip the framed painting over and attach the appropriate hanging hardware to the back. If using screws or hooks, position them on either side of the frame, near the top. For larger paintings, use a hanging wire instead, secured to the sides of the frame. Ensure the hardware is securely attached.
8. Test the balance: Hold the framed painting by the hanging hardware to check if it hangs straight. Adjust the position of the hardware if necessary to achieve proper balance.
9. Mark the wall: Position the framed painting against the wall at the desired height. Use a pencil to mark the top center of the frame on the wall.
10. Install wall hardware: Based on the type of hanging hardware used, install appropriate wall hooks, screws, or anchors at the marked spot. Use a level to ensure the hardware is perfectly aligned.
11. Hang the painting: Lift the framed painting and align the hanging hardware with the wall hardware. Carefully lower it onto the wall hooks or screws, ensuring it hangs securely.
12. Adjust and level: Step back and check if the painting is level. Use a level to make any necessary adjustments by slightly lifting or repositioning the painting.
13. Finishing touches: Clean the glass or plexiglass front of the frame using appropriate cleaning solutions or materials. You can also consider adding bumpers or felt pads on the back corners of the frame to prevent damage to the wall.

By following these steps, you should be able to frame and hang your paintings securely and beautifully. Remember to handle your artwork with care throughout the process to avoid any accidental damage.