Picture hanging systems make it easy to display, reposition and rearrange your artwork without repeatedly putting holes in your walls. However, depending on the frame and the way it has been fitted with picture wire, you may occasionally notice that a picture leans forward at the top further than is acceptable.
Fortunately, this is usually easy to correct.
Why Do Pictures Lean Forward?
When artwork is suspended from a hanging system, the hook sits between the wall and the back of the picture.
The distance between the top of the frame and the picture wire can cause the frame to tilt forward. This is particularly noticeable with:
- Deep or heavy picture frames
- Frames with loosely fitted picture wire
- Picture wire positioned too far down the frame
- Small or lightweight artwork
- Frames hung from a single hanger
A small amount of forward lean is not always a problem. In some situations, it can even improve the viewing angle of artwork hung above eye level. However, excessive leaning can make a display look uneven or unfinished.
Check the Position of the Picture Wire
Before making any changes to your hanging system, look at the position and tension of the picture wire on the back of the frame.
The wire should be secure and should not rise too close to the top of the frame when the artwork is hanging. If the wire is very loose, the hook may sit further away from the back of the picture, causing the top of the frame to lean forward.
Tightening or repositioning the picture wire may reduce the angle.
Always make sure that the frame, wire and fittings are suitable for the weight of the artwork.
Use Two Hangers for Better Stability
Larger or wider pictures will often sit more securely when supported by two hanging cables and two hooks.
Using two suspension points helps to:
- Distribute the weight more evenly
- Reduce sideways movement
- Keep the picture level
- Prevent the frame from twisting
- Improve the overall stability of the display
Use an appropriately sized Dring on each corner of the frame. Position it low enough so that the hanging system adjustable hook is hidden at the top behind the picture.
Keep Artwork Flat with HangRight Clips
For a simple and effective solution, Gallery Systems offers HangRight Clips.
HangRight Clips is easily attached to the back of a wooden picture frame using a small screw. The picture hanging line will sit behind the clip, which keeps the hanger close to the back of the artwork.
This helps prevent the hanger from pushing the top of the frame away from the wall.
Benefits of HangRight Clips
HangRight Clips can help:
- Keep pictures sitting flatter against the wall
- Reduce excessive forward lean
- Improve the stability of the frame
- Prevent smaller pictures from moving or twisting
- Create a cleaner, more professional display
- Keep groups of pictures looking neat and consistent
How to Install a HangRight Clip
HangRight Clips are quick and straightforward to install on most wooden frames.
- Hang the picture in its desired position.
- Identify where the hanging cable, Clearline or clear tape passes behind the frame.
- Remove the picture from the hook.
- Position the HangRight Clip near the upper edge on the back of the frame.
- Secure the clip using the supplied screw.
- Place the hanging hanger behind the clip.
- Rehang the artwork and check that it sits correctly.
When two hangers are being used, fit one HangRight Clip for each hanger.
Take care when fitting clips to narrow, delicate or unusual frames. Other frame materials mayPicture Hanging System require a different fixing method or modification.
Consider Using Frame Bumpers
Small clear or soft bumpers fitted to the bottom corners of a frame can also help reduce forward lean.
The bumpers move the lower edge of the picture slightly away from the wall, bringing the frame into a more vertical position. They can also help protect the wall and reduce movement.
Bumpers may be used on their own or together with HangRight Clips, depending on the frame and the amount of adjustment required.
Explore HangRight Clips and other picture hanging accessories from Gallery Systems UK.
