What you use to hang art and pictures can be as important as the art and pictures themselves. The following information will help you decide on what to buy when using a hanging system to display pictures or artwork for gallery, home, or office display.

Handling the Weight of the Artwork

To ensure that your picture hanging system can handle the weight of the art you display, make sure you understand the installation requirements of the hanging system’s tracks. Some systems attach tracks to the ceiling, which increases the potential of pull-out at a heavier weight. That is why you need to assess your weight capacities carefully.

Paired Hangers and Hooks

Paired hangers and hooks work out well in hanging art for the following reasons:

  • Larger artworks, such as those 2 feet across, often require paired hangers and hooks to secure the art display.
  • Even if the artwork is smaller, paired hangers and hooks create more symmetry and balance when displaying art.

Never use more than 2 hanger or hook assemblies per piece, as doing so can make it difficult to achieve an even distribution of weight.

Reviewing Cables and Rods

Using a Cable System

You will find that, for most hanging applications, a cable system will –

  • Last a long time – for decades.
  • Will virtually disappear on wallpapered or darker colored walls.

Using Rods

Rods, especially when they are made of metal (preferred) are –

  • Wear-resistant and dependable
  • Not as discreet as some hanging systems, and therefore do not provide as much flexibility when hanging multiple works of art in columns vertically.

Note - If you choose this type of system, you need to exert special care when installing your hanging hardware and picture wires so they are installed with consistency and precision. This is particularly important if you plan to hang groups or rows of artwork.

What You Should Look for in a Hanging System

Before you choose a hanging system, you need to review samples and look for certain features. Make sure the hanging system offers the following benefits and amenities.

  • Components should be made of high-quality materials and should be compact and inconspicuous.
  • Parts should operate smoothly and lock securely.
  • The parts should resist bending and feature smooth edges and a uniform finish.

Find out who uses the supplier’s hanging systems and check the return policy.

Final Notes

Most rail systems use wall or ceiling mounts and hold a weight capacity, on average, of 75 pounds. Cable systems, as noted, offer more flexibility, and can be wall-, fixed-, or ceiling-mounted. You can rearrange pictures as you wish, and the system holds a larger weight capacity.

Whatever you choose in a hanging system, take time to carefully review your options. Again, preparing the art for display is just as important as what is displayed in your home, office, or gallery.