How to Hang a Picture Frame or Mirror
Building a picture frame is a satisfying woodworking project. But once the frame is assembled, there's one more important step: getting it securely mounted on the wall.
Whether you're displaying a favorite print, a piece of artwork, or a mirror, the right hanging hardware makes all the difference. A properly installed hanging system supports the weight of the frame, helps keep it level, and protects the wall from scratches.
Here's a straightforward approach to mounting artwork and hanging a picture or mirror frame, using common hardware and a simple two-hook system.
Prepare the Artwork Before Building the Frame
If you're building a frame for a print or other artwork, it's a good idea to have the artwork matted before cutting your frame parts.
This confirms the finished dimensions of the artwork assembly and helps you determine the size of the frame opening.
A typical matted print consists of the artwork sandwiched between two layers:
- Mat board: The front layer, with a window cut out to display the artwork.
- Backing board: A piece of posterboard or foam core that supports the print from behind.
Once the artwork and matting are assembled, you can build the frame to fit.
For valuable or archival artwork, use appropriate acid-free materials and mounting methods to help protect the print over time.
Secure the Artwork Inside the Frame
After building the frame, you can take it to a professional frame shop to have the glass, mat, artwork, and backing installed.
But for many projects, you can do the assembly yourself.
Professional framers use specialized tools and fasteners to secure the contents of a frame. A simple alternative is to use small turn buttons attached to the back of the frame.
The turn buttons rotate into place to hold the backing securely against the frame.
They also make it easy to remove the backing later if you need to replace the artwork.
Add a Dust Cover and Wall Bumpers
Once the artwork is secured, I like to add a dust cover to the back of the frame.
This is simply a piece of brown kraft paper attached to the back of the frame with double-sided tape.
The paper helps keep dust from entering the frame assembly.
Next, add small rubber bumpers near the lower corners of the frame.
These create a little space between the frame and the wall, helping prevent scratches and scuff marks.
The bumpers can also help keep the frame from shifting against the wall.
Choose the Right Picture Hanging Hardware
Before installing any hanging hardware, consider the weight of the completed frame.
A large wooden frame with glass or a mirror can be surprisingly heavy.
For the picture frames shown here, I used heavy-duty picture wire and a pair of picture hooks rated at 50 lbs. each.
However, it's important to select hardware based on the actual weight of your frame, the wall construction, and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Using two hooks can help distribute the load and make the frame easier to level, but their individual weight ratings should not simply be added together to determine the capacity of the installation.
For particularly heavy mirrors, a French cleat or another mounting system specifically rated for the load may be a better choice.
How to Attach Picture Wire to a Frame
For a traditional wire-hanging system, the picture wire is attached to the back of the frame using a pair of D-rings.
The D-rings provide secure attachment points and allow the wire to move slightly as the frame is positioned.
Step 1: Install the D-Rings
Attach a D-ring to each side of the frame, keeping them at the same height.
Position them on solid portions of the frame that can securely support the weight.
Use appropriately sized screws that won't penetrate the front of the frame.
Step 2: Secure the Picture Wire
Thread the picture wire through the first D-ring and fasten it using the wrapping method shown in Figure 1 of the illustration.
Pull the wire tight around the ring, then wrap the loose end around the main length of wire, as shown in Figure 2.
Repeat the process at the opposite D-ring.
Follow the wire manufacturer's fastening instructions, since some wire types require specific wrapping methods or fittings.
Step 3: Cover the Wire Ends
After securing the wire, I like to cover the wrapped ends with floral stem wrap or masking tape.
This keeps the loose wire ends from scratching the wall or catching on other materials.
Figure 3 shows how the wrap covers the wire ends.
Before hanging the frame, check that both D-rings are firmly attached and that the wire is properly secured.
Use Two Picture Hooks for a Level Frame
Rather than hanging a heavy picture frame from a single hook, I prefer to use two.
A two-hook hanging system offers a couple of advantages.
First, it distributes the load between two attachment points when the hooks are properly positioned.
Second, it makes the frame easier to level once it's on the wall.
For the frames shown here, I positioned the hooks approximately 6" apart.
Both hooks should be installed at the same height so they share the load as intended.
Consider the Wall Construction
The type of wall determines which hanging hardware is appropriate.
For drywall, use picture hooks or anchors specifically rated for the frame's weight and the installation conditions.
For plaster walls, fastening into a wall stud is often preferable, particularly for heavier frames.
If you're hanging a substantial mirror, don't rely on ordinary picture hooks unless the complete hanging system is rated and approved for that application.
Use properly rated anchors or fasteners secured to framing as needed.
Hang and Level the Frame
With the hardware installed, carefully lift the frame and position the wire over both hooks.
Lower the frame slowly until the wire is seated securely.
Then check the frame with a level.
The two-hook arrangement makes small leveling adjustments easier than a single-hook setup.
Finally, check that the rubber bumpers contact the wall and that the frame hangs flat without rocking or shifting.
The Finishing Touch for a Shop-Built Frame
A well-built picture or mirror frame deserves a secure installation.
By preparing the artwork, protecting the back of the frame, and choosing appropriate hanging hardware, you can make the final step of the project straightforward.
For many picture frames, D-rings, picture wire, and a two-hook system provide a practical solution.
Just be sure the hardware and wall attachments are properly rated for the weight of the finished frame.
It's a small amount of extra effort that helps your woodworking look its best once it's on display.
Securing Glass Panels
Whether you're building a picture frame, cabinet door, or display case, properly securing glass is an important finishing detail.
Explore practical methods for holding glass panels in place while allowing for easy installation and removal.
LEARN HOW TO SECURE GLASS PANELS → Simple Ways to Secure Glass in Woodworking Projects
Walnut Mirror Frame
Add a touch of traditional elegance to any room with this handsome Walnut Mirror Frame. Its wide, beveled profile, inlaid bead molding, and clean mitered corners create a sophisticated look that's easier to achieve than you might think.
With a few straightforward woodworking techniques and the right sequence of cuts, you can build a beautiful frame that showcases your craftsmanship.
GET THE COMPLETE STEP-BY-STEP PLANS → Build an Elegant Walnut Mirror Frame
