How to Hang a Heavy Picture Frame

A large or heavy mirror or picture frame can add a distinctive touch to a room, but you can only hang it on a wall that can support the weight.

Use a Stud

Use a stud finder to find a spot in the wall able to support the weight of the frame. Either use a stud finder or your hand, feeling the density of the wall. When you have the right place, test the wall with a small nail to see if it hits a stud or goes through the drywall. Once you locate a stud, hammer a large nail into it.

Other Options

If you can not find a stud in the right place, you may need to use a wall anchor. These pieces are sold at hardware stores in different sizes according to the approximate weight of the frame. Insert the wall anchor in small holes in the wall. Once installed, it will open up inside the drywall to hold the nail in place.

If you do not have a wall anchor, try a self-tapping screw holder could work, too. Once you place the anchor securely into the wall, insert a large screw holder, followed by the screw itself. This should adequately support your heavy frame without damaging the wall, the picture or the mirror inside.