Arranging Pictures

Hello  again.   When you think about  framing and putting together a grouping of pictures,  how hard can it be to hang a few pictures???? Let’s see Uummm,  tape measure,  hammer,  nails,  picture hooks?

Well,  you would think  if you could get the nails reasonably straight and in line,  everything would miraculously come together . . . wrong !

To display a successful picture gallery or family photos, you definitely need to do a little planning and a little measuring. They need to have a defined shape or flow. Otherwise, they can appear haphazard and contribute more to clutter than the decor. Here are a few suggestions for picture galleries. . . .

The master decorator Candice Olson uses “The Perfect Picture Wall” it  is a complete system for hanging 10 picture frames.   You can also add additional frames if you have a larger area to cover.    It uses a revolutionary template  allowing you to determine placement, height and character of frames all without measuring and before the first hook is ever entered into your wall. The easy to use templates safely adhere to any surface allowing you to “Pre-View” what the frames will look like prior to hanging them.

The templates also have a unique leveling system,  so that all frames will be accurately positioned and level every time. The “Pre-View” templates can be moved multiple times to different locations, above a buffet or couch, around a corner or up the stairs until you are completely satisfied with the location. Apply in just moments what formerly took hours of tedious trial and error! You only need a hammer, everything else is included. This system is dah bomb!

 ( family photo collection)

 For precise positioning ,  conventional wisdom suggests that pictures be hung at eye level.  This notion is a fine starting point,  but hardly definitive.  There are many good reasons to hang pieces above or below a standard height.  In any setting,  you will need to react to the architecture and the furniture;  you will also need to follow your instincts.  A few inches’ shift in a hanging arrangement can affect the tone of an entire room:  Move the pictures over a sofa or chair down a bit;  the area will become more cohesive,  cozy,  and inviting. Hang several over a desk – they’ll provide a refreshing view when you look up from your work.  Learn to trust yourself.  If it feels right,  don’t be afraid to do something a little different.

“The Perfect Picture Wall”

I love this grouping!!!

Emphasize a hallway by running a series of photos.

When it’s time to hang your art,  use the method that provides the most stability.  It’s usually best to use two picture hangers,  so pictures don’t swing or tilt.

HGTV’s designer Genevieve Gorder

More options from “ The Perfect Picture Wall”

To view their  full catalog of wonderful ideas go here.

 

One more essential consideration is restraint.  You’ll want to leave some blank wall space in a room so the eye can rest;  what’s not there will allow you to appreciate what is.