Hanging artwork is one of the easiest ways to add personality and style to your home. However, not everyone wants to use nails, especially renters who must avoid damaging their walls. Fortunately, plenty of alternative methods allow you to hang art without nails, keeping your walls intact while still showing off your style. Here, we share eight practical and renter-friendly tips for hanging art without nails.
Tips to hang art with out nails | Damage-Free Solutions
1 out of 8Command Strips: A Renter’s Best Friend
Command Strips are one of the most popular ways to hang art without nails. These adhesive strips are perfect for lightweight frames, photos, and posters. Before you apply them, clean the wall with rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt or grease that could prevent the adhesive from sticking properly. Once the Command Strips are attached to both your wall and the frame, it’s important to wait for at least one hour before hanging the art to ensure the adhesive has fully bonded.
One of the biggest advantages of Command Strips is their ability to keep your walls free from holes, which is especially beneficial for renters. However, be cautious when using them for heavier frames. They are designed for lightweight items and may not hold up larger or bulkier artwork. If you want to avoid damaged walls or fallen frames, stick to smaller pieces
2 out of 8Adhesive Hooks: Strong and Sturdy
For those seeking a little more strength than Command Strips provide, adhesive hooks are a great option. These hooks come in a variety of sizes and strengths, making them suitable for medium-sized frames, canvases, and even hanging decor. Adhesive hooks can be applied directly to the wall and work well on most surfaces, from painted walls to tile. They’re easy to install and remove, making them perfect for hanging art in temporary spaces like dorm rooms or rental apartments.
A good tip when using adhesive hooks is to distribute the weight of the art evenly. If your frame is larger or heavier than what one hook can support, consider using multiple hooks across the top of the frame to balance the weight
3 out of 8Velcro Strips: Flexible and Removable
Velcro strips offer a secure yet flexible solution for hanging art without nails. These strips use a hook-and-loop system, allowing you to easily adjust and remove your artwork as needed. Velcro strips are ideal for smaller pieces or lightweight, frameless canvases. The best part is that you can easily reposition your art without any hassle, making them an excellent option for renters or anyone who frequently changes their decor.
These strips also won’t leave any sticky residue behind, which means your walls will stay pristine. If you’re someone who likes to update your space often, Velcro strips offer the flexibility to do so without damaging the paint or wall
4 out of 8Hook & Rail Systems: Ideal for Large Art
For larger or heavier pieces, Command Strips and adhesive hooks may not be strong enough. That’s where a hook and rail system comes in. Hook and rail systems are an excellent option for hanging art without nails, especially for galleries, living rooms, or any space where you have larger pieces that need extra support. These systems involve installing a rail near the ceiling or along the top of your wall, from which you can suspend adjustable hooks and wires.
One of the key benefits of a hook-and-rail system is the flexibility it offers. You can move your art along the rail or adjust the height of the hooks without having to make new holes in the wall. This is particularly useful for large art collections, as it allows you to switch out and rearrange your pieces with ease
5 out of 8Picture Hanging Tools: Precision and Accuracy
Getting your artwork perfectly aligned can be a challenge, but using picture-hanging tools can make the process much easier. Tools like the Hang & Level picture hanging tool help ensure that your frames are straight and positioned exactly where you want them. These tools work by marking the exact spots where your hooks or adhesives should go, and many even include built-in levels to help you achieve a professional look.
Whether you’re hanging a single frame or creating a gallery wall, picture-hanging tools are a must-have for precision and accuracy. Using them allows you to avoid the frustration of uneven frames or multiple failed attempts at getting the placement right
6 out of 8Hanging Strips for Frameless Art
Hanging strips are perfect for lightweight, frameless art pieces like posters or canvases. They come in various sizes, depending on the weight of your art, and can be easily removed without damaging the wall. These strips are similar to Command Strips but are often designed specifically for frameless items. They work well on smooth surfaces and are an excellent choice for renters who want to display art without leaving a trace.
For the best results, ensure that both the wall and the back of the art piece are clean and free from dust or oil. This will help the strips adhere properly and keep your artwork securely in place
7 out of 8Double-Sided Tape for Small Art
When it comes to lightweight decorative items like small prints or posters, double-sided tape can be a quick and simple solution. Double-sided tape is available in varying strengths, so be sure to choose one that is designed for walls to prevent damage. This option is best for very lightweight art, as it doesn’t have the same holding power as hooks or Command Strips.
Make sure to press the tape firmly onto both the wall and the art to ensure a strong bond. While this method won’t work for heavier frames, it’s a convenient way to display lighter items like photographs or poster
8 out of 8Wire Grid Displays for Creative Freedom
If you’re looking for a way to display multiple pieces of art at once, a wire grid display can be a creative and versatile solution. Wire grids are mounted on the wall, and you can use clips to hang various pieces of art, photos, or even plants. This method allows for easy customization, and you can change out your art as often as you like without damaging the wall.
Wire grid displays are great for people who enjoy frequently updating their decor. They also offer a modern, industrial look that works well in contemporary homes and studios. You can hang the wire grid using adhesive hooks or a rail system, making it flexible and damage-free
conclusion
Hanging art without nails doesn’t have to be complicated. With options like Command Strips, adhesive hooks, velcro strips, and more, you can create a beautiful gallery wall or display your favorite artwork without ever picking up a hammer. Whether you’re renting or simply prefer not to put holes in your walls, these eight tips will help you decorate your space with confidence.
By considering the weight and size of your artwork, and choosing the right hanging solution, you can enjoy a stylish and damage-free home. Explore these methods and find the one that works best for your decor needs.
FAQ
Will my artwork stay securely in place with adhesive picture hanging strips?
If applied correctly, adhesive picture hanging strips can securely hold your artwork in place for extended periods. To ensure maximum hold, make sure to choose strips that match the weight of your artwork. Clean the wall surface thoroughly before applying the strips, and press down firmly on both the strips and the frame to create a strong bond. It’s also essential to wait for the recommended time (usually an hour) before hanging your artwork to allow the adhesive to set properly.
What are the best ways to hang art without nails for easy repositioning?
If you like to frequently change your wall decor, removable adhesive hooks or strips are the best solution for hanging art without nails. These products allow you to reposition your artwork with ease, as they can be removed cleanly and re-applied without damaging the wall or leaving any residue. You can swap out frames, posters, or mirrors whenever you like without worrying about repairing holes or repainting the wall.
How can I maximize cabinet space in a small kitchen?
To avoid damage when using removable adhesive strips, make sure to choose damage-free picture hanging strips from reputable brands like Command. These strips are designed specifically for hanging art without nails and are safe for most surfaces, including painted walls, tiles, and wood.
How do I hang art on brick or concrete walls without nails or drilling?
Hanging artwork on brick or concrete walls without drilling can be a challenge, but some solutions work well. Brick clips are one option, as they attach securely to the mortar between bricks and allow you to hang art without drilling. If you’re working with a smooth concrete wall, adhesive hooks for masonry can also be used. These hooks are made specifically for rough surfaces like concrete or brick and provide a stronghold. Additionally, for lighter art pieces, removable mounting putty is another option. It’s a flexible material that can hold up art and be easily removed without leaving residue or damage on masonry surfaces.