To hang a picture with sawtooth hangers, you'll precisely measure the distance from the frame's top-center to the hanger and mark your wall accordingly before hammering and hanging.
Sawtooth hangers are a common and effective method for hanging lightweight to medium-weight picture frames, mirrors, or decorative items. Their jagged edge allows for minor adjustments once hung, making it easier to level your art.
Tools You'll Need
Before you begin, gather the following essential tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pencil | For marking the wall lightly |
| Measuring Tape | To accurately determine distances |
| Hammer | For driving the nail or picture hook into the wall |
| Nail or Picture Hook | To support the frame on the wall |
| Level (optional but recommended) | To ensure your picture hangs straight |
Step-by-Step Guide to Hanging Your Picture
Follow these straightforward steps for a perfectly hung picture using a sawtooth hanger:
1. Step 1: Pick Your Spot
- Identify the ideal location on your wall where you want to hang your frame. Consider its relationship to furniture, other wall art, and overall room aesthetics.
- Hold the picture up to visualize its placement. Most art is hung so that its center is at eye level (approximately 57-60 inches from the floor).
2. Step 2: Mark the Wall
- Once you've settled on the perfect spot, hold your picture frame against the wall exactly where you want it to hang.
- With a pencil, lightly mark the wall at the top-center of the frame. This initial mark serves as your primary reference point for the picture's desired top edge.
3. Step 3: Measure
- Carefully turn your picture frame over.
- Using your measuring tape, measure the distance from the very top edge of the frame down to the top-most point of the sawtooth hanger's central tooth. This measurement tells you precisely how far down from the top of the frame the hanging point actually is.
- Example: If your frame is 20 inches tall and the sawtooth hanger is 2 inches from the top, you'd measure from the top of the frame to the central peak of the sawtooth hanger.
4. Step 4: Mark Your Wall Again
- Go back to your wall where you made the initial light mark (the top-center of the frame).
- From that first mark, measure down the distance you determined in Step 3.
- Make a new, clear pencil mark at this point. This second mark is the exact spot where your nail or picture hook needs to go.
5. Step 5: Hammer and Hang
- Align your chosen nail or picture hook with the second mark you made on the wall.
- Carefully hammer the nail or hook into the wall. Ensure it's sturdy and angled slightly upwards if using a simple nail, to provide better grip for the hanger.
- Once the nail or hook is securely in place, carefully lift your picture frame.
- Align the sawtooth hanger on the back of the frame with the nail or hook.
- Gently lower the frame onto the nail/hook, allowing the sawtooth teeth to catch.
- Adjust as needed: The jagged design of the sawtooth hanger allows for minor horizontal adjustments. Use a level on top of the frame to ensure it's perfectly straight.
Pro Tips for Picture Hanging
- Use the Right Hardware: For heavier frames, consider using a specialized picture hanging hook designed for sawtooth hangers, which often distributes weight more effectively than a single nail.
- Wall Type Matters: For drywall, a standard picture nail or hook works well. For plaster or concrete walls, you might need a drill and appropriate wall anchors.
- Clean Up: Once your picture is perfectly hung, gently erase any visible pencil marks.
- Safety First: Always be mindful of electrical wires or plumbing behind your walls. Consider using a stud finder or consulting a professional if unsure.
