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You are the proud new owner of a beautiful piece of framed artwork and you can't wait to hang it on your big empty wall... Now what?
We are going to break it down for you with the formula to calculate height, a list of tools needed, step-by-step directions and hopefully some confidence to take with you!
List of Tools:
- Tape measure
- Pencil & paper
- Calculator
- Hammer
- Picture Hanging Hook with Nail or Picture Hanging Super Hook (drywall only)
- Level
Step 1: Art Height Calculation
The formula below calculates the correct height at which artwork should hang for optimal viewing and minimal neck craning. The idea is to hang artwork at “eye level” based upon the average human height of 5 feet 4 inches. That said, see below for a list of exceptions.
Eye Level Formula
57 + (x-y)
x = 1/2 height of artwork
y = *distance from wire to top of artwork
*This measurement is essentially the distance from the point (with the wire pulled taught) at which the art will hang off the nail or screw to the top edge of the artwork.
FREE TOOL: If you would rather plug in numbers than work a math formula, check out our Art Hanging Calculator to get your eye level measurement.
Exceptions to the Rule
- Are you tall? If you and your family members happen to resemble NBA players, use the starting number 60”.
- Short? If you are endearingly height-challenged, use the starting number 56”.
- Vaulted ceilings? If you have high ceilings, use the starting number 60”.
- Obstructions? Also adjust if this calculation causes guests to have to shove your Wingback chair out of the way to see the bottom half of your art.
Remember, the formula is simply a guideline, not an unwavering rule to live and die by. In the end, adjust as needed to look aesthetically pleasing and use your judgement.
Step 2: Measure
Use tape measure to measure up from the ground to your calculated height and mark the wall with pencil.
NOTE: If using Picture Hanging Hook with Nail, measure up an extra 1.75" to compensate for the hook height.
Step 3: Hammer Time
Tap the Picture Hanging Hook with Nail into the wall with a hammer at your measured height or twist the Picture Hanging Super Hook into the wall.
Step 4: Hang and Level
Carefully hang your artwork from the wire, grab your level and adjust.
INSIDER TIP: If your artwork insists on hanging crooked, use Command Picture Hanging Strips to stick one or both corners of the artwork to the wall.
Voila! Sit back, gaze upon your perfectly placed and secured artwork, and enjoy!
Del Mar Surfers by Roy Kerckhoffs
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