How to Hang a Heavy Picture Without Nails or Damaging the Walls, by VELCRO® Brand on YouTube. 1 min 5 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 5 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Weigh the framed picture on bathroom scales. Large adhesive strips usually hold up to 16 lbs, so use two pairs of strips for anything close to that limit.
Wipe the wall where the picture will go with a clean dry cloth to remove dust and grease. Let the surface dry completely before you stick anything.
Wipe the back of the frame too, then let it dry. Smooth, flat surfaces hold best, so avoid ridges, deep texture and loose wallpaper.
Hold the frame against the wall and mark the top corners lightly with a pencil. Check the marks with a spirit level so the picture sits straight.
Peel the backing off one strip and press it firmly onto the back of the frame near the top edge. Rub it for about 30 seconds.
Add a second strip near the bottom of the frame so the picture cannot swing. Keep the strips level with each other.
Peel the backing off the wall-side strips, line the frame up with your pencil marks and press it hard against the wall for 30 seconds.
Lift the frame away, press the wall strips down again, then reattach the frame. This second press gives a stronger grip.
Check the picture with a spirit level and slide it slightly if needed. To remove it later, pull the frame slowly away and peel the strips off the wall.
Tips and common mistakes
Wait a few days after painting before hanging anything, because fresh paint can peel away with the strip.
Skip adhesive strips on wallpaper, brick, fabric or bumpy plaster, as the bond will fail.
Use a step stool rather than a chair when you reach above head height, and keep both feet on it.
Keep strips away from damp walls and direct heat, which soften the adhesive over time.
Questions
Will the strips damage my paint when I remove them?
They are designed to peel off cleanly without marks when used on smooth, sound paint. Pull the frame away slowly and peel the strip back on itself rather than yanking it.
How much weight can adhesive picture strips hold?
Large strips typically hold up to 16 lbs per pair. Add extra strips for heavier or wide frames, and check the pack rating before you hang anything valuable.
Can I use them on plasterboard or drywall?
Yes, plasterboard and drywall are fine as long as the surface is smooth, clean and dry. Avoid areas with damp or crumbling plaster.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
