How to hang pictures

 

Since 1992, Richardson Paintings, has sold high-quality hand-painted copies of paintings to individuals, interior designers and many of the world's finest hotels, and they are often used by Sotheby's and Christie's.
Oliver Richardson of Richardson Paintings gives us his expert advice on hanging, mounting and lighting pictures, in order to make them look their best.
Positioning the frame
Take a look at our expert guide to hanging and lighting pictures and painting.
What is the correct way to hang a picture on a wall?
• It depends on the weight of the picture and the density of the wall.
You will need picture hooks, which come in singles, doubles and trebles depending upon the weight of the picture, and a supply of hard wall hooks. You will also need a hammer, drill, raw plugs and screws for anything very heavy.
• Test the fixing by pulling down hard on it by hand before you hang anything on it.
At what height should paintings or pictures be hung on a wall?
• Most people hang pictures too high; you should not have to strain your neck to see them. The general rule is to make the centre of the picture roughly five feet from the ground. You should not end up looking down or up at it.
How do I ensure that a painting or picure is hung straight?
• You could use a spirit level but if the floor and ceiling levels are not true then the picture will not look level even if it actually is!
• Simply stand a certain distance from the picture to determine whether or not it is straight.
• Always use two wall hooks, parallel to the floor, rather than one, to prevent pictures moving about.
How do you decide where to hang painting or prints?
• Bedrooms will take pretty, pastel-coloured images and a dining room more darker, serious pictures.
• Hallways and less important areas can often take a series of prints.
• An important oil painting should occupy a strong focal point within a room such as over a fireplace.
• A large painting hung on a staircase will give maximum impact.
• Do not hang a picture where it looks squashed or place a small picture in a vast space.

 source: http://www.housetohome.co.uk/articles/how-to-hang-pictures-positioning-the-frame_529916.html#wFTEfbK7GObhbJkF.99