Picture Hanging 101

Hanging Heavy Frames

Be generous with the heavy stuff.

If a wall hanging exceeds 20 pounds, then use a hanger. "If you choose to take an extra precaution by nailing in two hangers, separate them by at least 3 inches to equally distribute the object's weight and to prevent it from hanging crooked," says Nordan, who also provides illustrated, step-by-step hanging instructions. For even more strength, locate a wall stud with a stud finder. Because framing members are typically spaced 16 inches on center, you'll be able to secure only one hanger within a stud when nailing two.