|
 |
|
|
Collecting Basics: Methods &
materials |
 |
|
|
Ready to hang
Once you have decided where to put a framed piece, the next task
is to prepare a frame for hanging. The simplest method is to
attach D rings (available at your local hardware store) to the
back of the frame on both sides, about one-third of the way down
from the top, and then tie braided picture-hanging wire between
the D rings. Make sure you attach the wire so that when you pull
it taut in the center with your finger, your finger touches the
back two inches from the top of the frame.
X marks the spot
Once you've decided where to hang the piece, the next step is to
mark the spot on the wall where you will set a hook. For small
pieces (one foot by one foot or smaller), mark the top center of
the frame on the wall. Measure two inches down from this mark.
The walls of most modern homes are built with wooden studs
spaced 16 inches apart, then covered with half-inch thick
sheetrock. If you are very lucky, your mark will fall on a stud
— in which case you can nail a picture-framing hook to your spot
and hang the piece. If your mark is not over a stud, you can
still nail a brass picture hanging hook into the sheetrock.
Hooked on art
Any hardware store should sell brass hooks for picture hanging.
They come in single, double, and triple pin configurations.
Singles will work for 10 pounds of pressure, but we do not
recommend using them. Doubles are rated for 50 pounds, and
triples are rated for 75 pounds — these can help you hang art
effectively even in sheetrock or plaster. Brands we recommend
are OOK by Impex Systems Group, Elite and D-Rings by Anchor Wire
Corp., and general framing products by Ziabicki Imports.
Hanging larger pieces
For works larger than one foot in any direction, we recommend
setting two (or more, depending on size) picture framing hooks
into the wall. Even if the brass hooks aren't centered on the
frame or passing truck vibrations affect the work's alignment,
this method allows you adjust the picture to a level position.
For very heavy artworks that need to be hung on sheetrock or
plaster, we recommend setting plastic anchors and screws. The
picture below shows the hardware necessary for heavy
installations.
Next:
Conservation — How do I preserve original artwork? |
|
|
|
|
