How to Hang Canvas and Acrylic Wall Art

Stirling Falls, Milford Sound, black and white fine art print by Stephen Milner

Both metallic canvas and acrylic prints arrive ready to hang and need no wall bracing. Canvas hangs on two small nails or screws, acrylic comes with a metal bracket and screws, and in most homes you can have a piece on the wall in a few minutes. Here is how to do it well.

How do you hang a canvas print?

A floating frame canvas hangs on two small nails or screws set level on the wall. Mark your two fixing points level and evenly spaced, allowing for the width of the frame, then rest the piece onto them. In plaster board, use wall plugs for a secure hold. No wall bracing is required. Keep the piece out of direct sunlight and away from moisture. Full detail is on Hanging Instructions.

How do you hang an acrylic print?

Acrylic prints come with a metal bracket and screws that hold the panel just off the wall. Fix the bracket to the wall, level and at the right height, then mount the panel onto it. The panel floats slightly proud of the wall for a clean, modern look. Acrylic handles humidity well, so with careful consideration it can go in a kitchen or bathroom.

How do you hang heavy or large wall art?

For larger pieces, always fix into something solid. Find the studs behind plaster board, or use appropriate heavy duty wall plugs rated for the weight. Use two fixing points rather than one so the piece sits level and the load is shared. If you are unsure about the wall, a picture hanging professional can help, but most pieces here are straightforward to hang at home.

How high should you hang your art?

Centre the piece at eye level, about 145 to 152 cm from the floor to the middle of the artwork. Above a sofa or bed, lower it so the bottom edge sits around 20 to 25 cm above the furniture. For more on choosing the right size for the space, see our wall art size guide.

How do you care for your print once it is up?

Keep both finishes out of direct sunlight to protect the image. Dust canvas with a chemical free damp microfibre cloth, and never spray anything directly onto the artwork. The acrylic face can take a small amount of glass cleaner on a soft cloth. See Care and Handling for the full routine.

Frequently asked questions

Do the prints come ready to hang?

Yes. Canvas hangs on two small nails or screws, and acrylic comes with a metal bracket and screws. Neither finish needs wall bracing.

Can I hang a print in a bathroom or kitchen?

Acrylic handles humidity well and can go in a bathroom or kitchen with careful consideration. Canvas is best kept away from moisture, so it suits living rooms, bedrooms and hallways.

What fixings do I need for a heavy piece?

Fix into studs where you can, or use heavy duty wall plugs rated for the weight, and always use two level fixing points so the load is shared and the piece hangs straight.

How do I keep the print looking its best?

Keep it out of direct sunlight, dust canvas with a chemical free damp microfibre cloth, and clean an acrylic face with a little glass cleaner on a soft cloth. Never spray onto the artwork itself.