Knowing how to hang ordinary works of art in a masterful way can be very frustrating.  By following these few simple tricks you’ll be arranging artwork like a pro in no time.

Try hanging pictures low to visually connect them to furnishings, it creates more intimacy.  A general rule of thumb:  narrow spaces call for artwork hung vertically, while walls that are wider should have horizontal groupings that are spaced closer together.  For example, instead of using a single oversized piece of art, on a large wall, try arranging smaller, closely spaced art with coordinating frames. 

Most people over the years have collected a variety of frame styles.  Try picking out a few that you love and then reframing the rest of your artwork to match, this will give it a more unified look.  For a more transitional look place small photos in large mats and then place it in gallery-styled frames.  If you are looking for a more traditional look try using decorative frames and mats that are multilayered.

Put your own style into hanging your artwork.  Be playful and have fun.  One of my favorite ideas is to attach cording or ribbon to your art and then hang it from old finials or crystal drawer pulls.  This can add lots of character to any room.

- Gwen Bonnichsen