Want to learn some tricks to how to install wall frame hardware?
The first trick is selecting the right frame hardware and the second trick is placing the framing hardware in the right spot on your frame. Many times you can have your quality frame retailer put the hardware on for a small fee, but if you’re handy with tools you can certainly install the hardware on yourself.
The first step is making sure you have the right frame hardware. If you’re hanging a frame smaller than 11x14 and you bought a quality ready made picture frame then chances are good the frame already has hardware. But if it doesn’t have framing hardware then you’ll need to use either a sawtooth hanger or a couple of eye hooks. If you’re not sure what these are you can read the article on Picture Frame Hardware to get more information.
If you have a wall frame smaller than 11x14 then I generally recommend a sawtooth frame. They generally come in a couple of sizes so if you hang anything smaller than an 8x10 use a small to medium sized sawtooth hanger. If you’re hanging an 8x10 or 11x14 use a large sawtooth hanger.
The first thing you want to do is know the direction you want to hang your frame and make sure the sawtooth hanger is centered and straight. If not, you’ll always struggle trying to straighten your frame on the wall. Quick tip-if you have trouble getting the sawtooth hanger centered, I’d recommend measuring the width of the frame to the dot on the sawtooth hanger to make sure it’s actually center. And if you have trouble getting the hanger straight just use a small level to double check.
The other type of hanging hardware I recommend is eye hooks. The eye hooks are screwed into the wood of the frame so they’re best for large heavy wall frames. The only problem is that they can be a little harder to install since you have to screw in two hooks and string wire between them. The tricky part is getting the hooks even and stringing just the right amount of wire so the frame will lay nicely against the wall.
The first thing you’ll want to do before screwing in the eyehooks is make sure you place them in the right spot. I’d suggest using a pen or pencil to mark the positions first before you try screwing in the eye hooks. The eye hooks will go on the back of the frame on the right and left sides of the frame. You should place each one about 1/3 way down the side of the frame. Try to get the two eye hooks even and use a level if you’re not sure. Once you’ve got the right spot, pre-drill your holes, screw in the eye hooks and then use picture wire to connect the two eye hooks. When connecting the wire you’ll want to make a slight triangle shape between the two hooks and the top of the frame. Whatever you do DON”T run the wire tight between the two hooks otherwise it won’t hang properly.
It may seem a little challenging but if you’re handy it will be easy. However, if you’re not sure, I’d recommend having your quality frame retailer do it for you once so you’ll have an example and try it by yourself next time.
