Hanging a picture using string: how does it work?
You want to hang a painting, but you have no idea how to do it. You want it to remain fixed and stable. In this case, it is best to hang it using a string. Find out how to do it here.
If you want to hang a picture using string, the first thing to do is to set up two attachment points on the frame. Next, you cut a piece of string with a little slack. It is this slack that you pass through the notches. Finally, place one of the notches on the wall, such as a nail or screw, and then hang the string.
In fact, the painting is part of a decorative logic. That being said, you have the obligation to put it up correctly for an impeccable result. However, this task is not necessarily the least, especially for those who are not used to DIY. But do not worry, because there is a solution for you. In the following, you will learn perfect techniques to hang your painting through notions on:
- the most suitable types of strings;
- the process to follow;
- the techniques to use.
Once you read this document, it becomes easy for you to hang a picture with a string. Here you have the solutions to all your worries.
- Types of strings for hanging a picture
Many people believe that they can hang a painting with all sorts of strings. This is of course wrong! In order for the painting to remain static and fixed as it should be, you must choose a string that follows very specific criteria.
In fact, the first important criterion is the strength of the string. It must be strong enough to hold the painting hanging. Otherwise, it may fall and deteriorate. Then opt for a properly made and firm string. The strength of the string to choose depends on the weight of the painting.
You also need to choose a string that is UV resistant. You will see strings that are damaged by the effect of solar radiation. They become less strong. The difficulty is that you may be installing your painting next to windows and doors, where the string is exposed to UV rays. Take this important detail into account. In addition, choose a string that is fairly waterproof, because water drops may pass on the wall and come into contact with the string.
The second criterion for selecting the string is the material it is made of. You will certainly see various types of strings, and almost all of them are suitable for the occasion. In any case, the most suitable types of strings are:
- hemp cords;
- sisal cords;
- cotton cords;
- jute cords;
- silver or gold cords.
However, you can also choose synthetic cords, when you find them very strong.
The third and last criterion is not so negligible. It is about beauty. You are installing the painting as a decoration, so it is important that the whole thing reflects beauty, including the string. Select more colored cords, and silver or gold colored string, which is likely to make the painting sumptuous.Then, to give your painting a special character, choose a multi-colored string or one that shows the colors of the rainbow.
- Process of hanging a picture using string
Now you have the string you need for your painting. Now take action. You have two scenarios here. It may happen that the painting has one or more attachment points, or rather that it has no attachment points.
When the painting has attachment points, it is easier to hang it. You will first break up the string. Thus, you will measure the distance between the attachment points, then the distance of the hanging (nail, screw, hook, etc.). Add a few centimeters to the length taken for the string, so that it does not remain extremely stiff. Then, put the string on the attachments one by one. Then attach them all in the shape of a triangle ; and you hang the painting on the wall by the corner at the top of the triangle.
But when the painting does not have any attachment points, you attach the string in another way. You can put an attachment point at each end of the frame. So, you only have to use two small rings or two closed hooks in the shape of a triangle. Fix them with strong glue. Pass the string through them. The other possibility is to fix the string directly to the back of the painting with strong glue. Remember to always use the triangular shape, to place the painting on the wall hanger. The strength of the glue is an important element to take into account. This allows the string to remain firmer and not let go.
It is also likely that you will decide to hang several pictures on a string. In this case, you should use a slightly thicker and larger string. You place a hook on the wall to which you attach each end of the string. If you want a result of impeccable beauty, put two or three strings in parallel on the wall. Try to adjust the strings so that they are neither too rigid nor too relaxed.
- How to attach a painting with string?
The only thing you have to do now is hang the painting using the string or on the string. Below, you have a video of Gwenn who correctly explains the phases to follow to hang a painting.
If you want to hang a picture on the wall, you definitely need a hanging system. You have several options for this.
Traditionally, you use a nail. This is often what is recommended when the painting is very heavy. Since it is very strong, it can withstand heavy loads. To do this, you will drill a hole in the wall. Drive a nail in by tapping it with a hammer until it is stable. Above all, the nail must not penetrate the wall completely, otherwise you will no longer have a fastener for your painting. If you plan to perfect your painting installation, you can tilt the nail 45° towards the ceiling, so that the painting is stable. Now, place the string on it.
For a more consistent result, you can opt for a screw instead of a nail. It is installed in almost the same way as a nail. The very small difference is that instead of using a hammer, you will use a drill for the wall. To do this, after drilling the wall, put a plug in the hole before installing the screw. Partially insert the screw into the hole, and make sure it is solid.Then place the board with the string on the back on the screw.
You can also use a hook as a hanging system for the string and the board. What is comforting about the hook is that it is firm, and presents itself well for putting the string on it. In this case, the installation is done without the slightest difficulty. To avoid drilling the wall, you have the option of choosing adhesive hooks. You attach them to the wall with adhesive strips.
In addition, there are other fairly simple hanging options for your paintings, which can be done without drilling into the wall. Don't hesitate to try them as supports for the string and the painting.
If you want, use a self-adhesive hook. It is similar to the hook installation, except that it can hold more than one painting. On the other hand, its appearance is more pleasant, and it comes in various models. It allows you to hang a good number of paintings on strings. Strong glue is good for the occasion. Put it on the end of the string at the corner at the top, but also on the wall. Tie them well. However, this technique is more suitable for small paintings and light frames. In addition, it is not durable. Several months later, the glue can give way, and the painting can collapse and get damaged. This is then a technique that can serve you in the short term, before you opt for another, better and long term one.
Finally, if you want to hang several pictures on a single string, it is up to you to hang them one after the other. Use small hooks or rings through which you pass the string. Then, you join the end of the string with the hook fixed to the wall. This is the perfect technique to highlight photo frames or portrait paintings.
Now hang your painting !
Make your home interior more pleasant by hanging a picture on your wall, which will gain in shine. This article has allowed you to know several techniques to hang a picture using a string like a pro. Now that you have ample knowledge in terms of hanging pictures, it is obvious that you will know how to do it without fail when the time comes. Do it and admire it. As a specialist, it is therefore time to take action.
