How to Hang Unframed Art
Jan 05, 2021
There is an art… to hanging art.
We just went over how to choose the right size art prints, so I guess now we should talk about how to hang your art. Specifically though for this blog post – how to hang unframed art.
There are many reasons why you might want to hang unframed art. You might be looking to mix up the look and feel of a gallery wall. You might be going for something less formal and more non-committal. You might also just prefer to spend your money on other stuff and that’s totally cool.
Whether you’re hanging a KFA print, another fine art print, or just something your kid drew, here are a few ways you could hang unframed art.
Actually… <insert ‘screech to a halt’ sound effect>, what types of art can be hung unframed?
Well, sans frame, you’re going to be using any of the techniques below to hang lightweight art—we’re talking works on paper, paintings on a board, and even canvases if they’re not too large. These types of art can be affixed to the wall without excess weight damaging the wall (or the piece itself). Obviously, something that comes with toggle bolts or self-drilling anchors does not fit within this category.
How do you hang art without a frame?
Washi Tape
Washi tape is a decorative Japanese masking tape that’s classier than Scotch tape and (most likely) won’t damage whatever you’re hanging. This is a bright and modern way to put stuff up on your walls, but I would only recommend this system for inexpensive things, like magazine tear outs over a desk.
Bulldog Clips
These things are essentially more substantial binder clips. They have a great, casual look to them and make it super easy to swap prints in and out. You can clip the bulldog clip in the middle of the print or use two and position them on either side.
Clipboard
Clipboards aren’t just for filling out forms at doctors’ offices. They also make really interesting gallery walls. To do this the right way, you need to plan out a grid, whether it’s 3x3x3 or 4x2 or something similar. Then get you some Command hooks or brad nails and boom. Cheap and easy gallery wall that will also look cool on Instagram.
Strings and Clips
You can get as rustic or as industrial as you want with this one. Twine and clothespins work great with a farmhouse look. Art cable with metal hanging clips is a bit cleaner looking. You can even get photo clips that hang on string lights and I have a feeling I will be seeing this soon in my daughter’s bedroom.
Fancy Mounting System
I have to admit, this thing is slick. The Paper-Grip can be mounted (stop laughing) just about anywhere, and then you can slide any size or type of paper into the rail, which holds it securely. There are no fasteners, just the rail and whatever you’re hanging from it. Pretty cool!
There ya have it, friends. I hope you find these tips for how to hang unframed art useful. Be on the lookout for tips on how to choose the right frame!