Art collecting is a popular pursuit for many, but once you’ve got yourself a collection, it can be challenging to work out how to create a display so each piece shines. Trying to evenly space and hang each piece using individual hooks or nails can be frustrating and also time-consuming.
Fortunately, there’s an easier way with one of the many available picture hanging solutions.
Picture hanging systems (also called art hanging systems or gallery hanging systems) have revolutionised the way we display art. They offer many benefits over traditional methods, making them a preferred choice for many art enthusiasts, galleries, and interior decorators.
Let’s explore the advantages of art hanging systems and how they make picture hanging a breeze.
What is a Hanging System?
In the context of displaying art, a hanging system is a modern approach to showcasing your favourite pieces. Unlike traditional methods that involve hammering nails into the wall, an art hanging system involves a rail installed near the ceiling from which wires and hooks hang.
Comprised of horizontal metal or plastic rails that affix to the wall either with screws or adhesive, the rails then rely on hardware that allows adjustable hanging wires, cords or brackets to slide across the rail and be moved laterally.
The hangers hook over or clip into the rail, suspending the art while still allowing the pieces to be moved side to side along the track. This means spacing can be adjusted, and art can be rearranged when desired without
How Does an Art Hanging System Work?
Art hanging systems take the guesswork out of spacing, levelling and securing your art display. Here is an overview of how they work:
- Rails are mounted horizontally on the wall, straight or with corners and angles as needed. Adhesive or screws secure the rails.
- Hanging hooks, cords or brackets designed for the specific system clip or attach to the rail at any point.
- Art is attached to the hangers. Hanging wires or hardware affixed directly to the hangers.
- Once art is on the rail, pieces can slide and be moved laterally along the track. Spacing and arrangement can easily be adjusted.
- Multiple rails can be mounted above each other with vertical spacing between them. This allows art to be hung at various heights and positioned across a larger area.
- When it’s time to rearrange pieces or expand your collection, art can be moved, added or taken off without detaching rails or making new holes.
The flexibility of an art hanging system allows you to customize the spacing and layout to fit your collection and wall space. Systems can also be expanded and reconfigured as your needs change.
The Ease of Hanging Art Safely
One of the significant advantages of art hanging systems is their ease and safety. Traditional hanging methods can put your pieces at risk, with the potential for falls causing damage to the artwork. However, with an art hanging system, your artwork is secured safely on the wall, and you can easily adjust the height and position of your art without the risk of damaging it or your wall.
Safely displaying cherished art requires selecting mounting hardware that correctly supports the weight and size of each piece. Follow these tips for secure, damage-free hanging:
- Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use appropriate hardware for walls, ceilings, and art weight.
- Select cables that can support at least three times the weight of your artwork for added security.
- Consider mounting hardware on the back of very large pieces to reduce strain on hanging wires.
- Securely attach all hooks and cables, then check the wall mounts.
- Use a level to make sure all pieces hang straight.
- Check that all hardware, frames and canvases are in good condition so art hangs safely and level.
- Use braided or coated stainless steel hanging wire designed for artwork. Do not use plain wire or rope, which can cut into your art.
- Follow the one-third rule – hanging wire or cord should be attached about 1/3 of the way down from the top of the frame or piece. This helps it hang straight.
An art hanging system adds further stability and security since pieces attach directly to the horizontal track, distributing weight evenly across the rails and multiple anchor points. The system bears the load, protecting your art from rips, tears or other damage.
Art hanging systems also protect your walls. With traditional hanging methods, you would need to drill holes into the wall for each piece. But with an art hanging system, you install the rail once, and that’s it. You can hang, remove, and reposition your art as often as you like without leaving a mark.
The Benefits of an Art Hanging System
An art hanging system is a great way to easily display your art while protecting it from damage. With an art hanging system, you can:
- Quickly and easily create and rearrange art displays.
- Achieve perfectly spaced artwork with adjustable hangers that can be moved laterally along the track.
- Hang art at various heights and distances from the wall with adjustable height hangers.
- Easily update your display as needed without making new holes or repainting walls.
- Hang larger pieces safely using multiple anchor points along the rail to distribute weight evenly.
- Protect artwork from damage by selecting appropriate hardware and following manufacturer instructions for weight load limits.
- Easily reconfigure and expand the system when necessary.
Conclusion
An art hanging system is a great solution for both home and gallery settings. Whether you’re displaying your favourite family photos, creating a chic wall of contemporary art, or showcasing your collection in a public space, an art hanging system provides a safe and secure way to hang your pieces with ease. With adjustable height wires, cords and brackets, you can easily move and reposition artwork along the track while still retaining a polished look. And by selecting the right hardware for the weight of your art pieces, you can be sure that your display is securely mounted with minimal risk of damage.
Ready to transform your art displays with a seamless, adjustable, and safe hanging system? At Gallery System, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. Don’t compromise when it comes to showcasing your favourite pieces – contact us today to discover how your art can be displayed with an art hanging system!