Tips for Hanging Picture Frames and Framed Art

To See Visual Examples and Explore more options, visit my one of my Pinterest boards: 
http://pinterest.com/tammymathieu 

General Hanging Tips

• Always hang frames at eye level, 59" or 150cm from the floor
• If you have a large wall and several frames to arrange, arrange the frames on the floor, this will let you easily re-arrange the frames until you get the look you want
• Once you have your desired layout, you can then measure the spaces between the frames and hang one frame at a time on the wall
• Try mixing wall hung frames with a few shallow ledges with frames resting on the ledges and leaning on the wall

Positioning a Picture Over a Sofa

• When handing a frame over a sofa, try not to leave too much space between the sofa and the frame
• 3-6" (8-16cm) is ample ~ too much space will disconnect the frame from the rest of the room and look awkward
• Never choose a single picture that is wider than the couch, this will create an imbalance that is distracting

Positioning Frames for a Gallery Effect

• To create a museum or art gallery effect, hang a group of frames with the center of all frames at eye level, about 59" (150cm) up from the floor
• This works best with a series of large frames, regardless of size
• TIP: for added interest try alternating vertical and horizontal frames

Symmetrical Framed Arrangements

• Arranging an equal number of large and small frames together in a mirrored fashion is most commonly used in more formal or traditional decorating styles
• TIP: combine pictures that have a similar theme or subject matter
• TIP: you could display 2 large, wide matted frames equally spaced apart over symmetrically balanced furniture or use 1 large frame over the middle of a sofa with 3 smaller frames on each side to create a 7 piece collection

Asymmetrical Framed Arrangements

• A collection of different sized frames can look great together on a wall if the frames all have a similar look (same colour or moulding style, etc.)
• Grouping large and small frames together in both horizontal or vertical placements to create an interesting and dynamic arrangement
• TIP: combine pictures that have a similar theme or subject matter 
• TIP: you could display all your old photos together, or pictures of your children

Hanging Frames in Pairs

• TIP: when hanging two large pictures together, try lowering one frame and raising the other frame so the tops and bottoms don't line up for a more pleasing effect