You've just unboxed a breathtaking Minted print, but the thought of marring your walls with nail holes makes you wince. Sound familiar?
Displaying art doesn't have to come at the cost of your wall's integrity or your security deposit. In this article, we break down five ways to securely hang all kinds of art—large prints included—without damaging your walls.
Why You Should Skip the Nails
As an art enthusiast, you know that aesthetics are everything. With nail-free display solutions, you not only enhance your decor but also add a practical touch to your space.
The magic of these gentle hanging methods goes beyond preserving your security deposit (though that's a nice bonus). It's about turning your walls into a canvas of creativity that adapts swiftly as your inspiration strikes.
These techniques allow you to turn your home into a living, breathing art showcase that shifts with your mood and the seasons. Picture effortlessly swapping vibrant wall murals with each passing season or reimagining your gallery wall on a whim—all without ever reaching for a hammer or fretting over repair work.
Ready to turn your space into a dynamic, ever-changing gallery that reflects your unique taste? Let's explore five ingenious ways to hang art that are kind to your walls and big on style.
Using adhesive strips to hang art
Adhesive strips are wall-friendly wonders that let you showcase your favorite pieces while keeping your surfaces pristine. These clever adhesives are perfect partners for Minted's eclectic art collection, holding everything from delicate watercolors to rustic canvas prints with surprising strength.
To hang art using adhesive strips, start by selecting a strip that is capable of bearing the weight of your piece (most brands will list the weight the strips can support directly on the package), and ensuring that you have enough strips — you may want to use a few extra strips for large-scale art pieces to ensure they are hung securely. Then, give your wall a quick wipe down with rubbing alcohol, attach the strips to your frame, and press firmly against the wall.
These versatile strips play nice with smooth surfaces like painted drywall, tile, and wood, opening up endless possibilities for your artwork. Your walls are about to get a whole lot more interesting—no hammer required!
Pro tip: Let the adhesive bond for an hour before hanging your masterpiece. When you want to change the layout, simply stretch the strips downward to release.

Photo by: Diana White Int
Using adhesive hooks to hang wall art
Adhesive hooks are another versatile solution for showcasing your art. These innovative hangers offer a secure grip while preserving your walls' integrity.
Consider the weight and size of your chosen artwork. Adhesive hooks have options supporting anywhere from 6 lbs to an impressive 42 lbs, making them ideal for displaying everything from petite prints to larger statement pieces.
When it comes to placement, strategy is key. For substantial pieces, utilize multiple hooks evenly spaced to distribute weight effectively. Position hooks approximately one-third down from the top of the frame to achieve optimal balance. Before application, ensure your wall surface is clean and dry for maximum adhesion.
Using adhesive putty to hang pictures
Where adhesive strips and hooks can hold major weight, adhesive putty is ideal for lighter pieces of art. This pliable wonder offers the perfect balance of hold and gentleness for Minted's unframed art and small prints.
Here's how to harness the power of putty for your masterpieces:
- Shape small balls of adhesive putty and attach them to the corners of your frame or the back of unframed prints
- Press your artwork against the wall, ensuring even weight distribution
- Reposition your pieces effortlessly, allowing for spontaneous gallery refreshes
- Remove artwork by gently peeling it away from the wall
- Warm stubborn putty with a hair dryer before removal to protect your wall's paint finish.
Adhesive putty is the secret ingredient for creating dynamic displays that evolve with your style. Imagine crafting an ever-changing collage of photography prints in your hallway or a whimsical array of children's art in a playroom.
Velcro strips for hanging frames
Unleash your inner curator with the magic of Velcro strips. Picture effortlessly transforming your space from a serene landscape gallery to a vibrant abstract showcase in minutes — that's the creative freedom Velcro strips provide. These ingenious fasteners offer a perfect fusion of strength and adaptability, ideal for showcasing your prized artwork.
Don't let their unassuming appearance fool you; these resilient strips can support up to 16 pounds per pack. Here’s how to use them:
- These work best when starting with a pristine surface. Give both the wall and the frame you want to hang a good dust before you apply the strips.
- A quick wipe with rubbing alcohol ensures optimal adhesion, creating the perfect canvas for your artistic vision.
- Simply affix one side of the strip to your frame and its counterpart to the wall. The satisfying 'click' as they connect signals your masterpiece is securely in place.

Photo by: Analicia Herrmann
Using tension rods for picture-hanging
Prepare to see tension rods in a whole new light. With tension rods, your art collection defies gravity, dancing in unexpected places and adding layers of visual intrigue to every corner of your home.
Here’s how to use tension rods for hanging art:
- Choose the right rod: Select a tension rod that is of correct length—it should fit securely between two vertical surfaces. Ensure the rod is made from sturdy materials like steel or aluminum.
- Weight capacity: Most tension rods can support up to 20 pounds. Ensure the total weight of the art doesn’t exceed this limit.
- Prepare and hang your art: Attach hooks, clips, or loops to the top edge of your art frames. Extend the rod between walls or within a window frame, ensuring it is level and secure. Hook the frames onto the rod, arranging them to achieve your desired aesthetic.
Pro tip: We love how easy this hanging method makes it to swap out your art on a whim, allowing your walls to become a living, breathing gallery that shifts and surprises with each passing season. Create a bohemian oasis by draping fabrics behind Minted's limited edition prints. Or achieve an industrial chic look by installing multiple rods at staggered heights, turning your Minted photography into a dynamic, three-dimensional display.
Art hanging FAQS
Curious about mastering the art of gentle hanging? You're in the right place! Let's explore some clever ways to showcase your masterpieces without leaving a trace on your walls.
Q: How do I choose the right damage-free display method for my art piece?
A: To choose the right damage-free way to hang your art, the most important thing to consider is the size of the piece you want to display. For those dreamy watercolor prints, adhesive putty or command strips are your go-to. Stepping up to bolder abstract pieces? Consider sturdy adhesive hooks or Velcro strips. And for those show-stopping large-scale art pieces, tension rods might just be your new creative best friend.
Q: Can these methods handle heavier artworks?
A: Absolutely! While most Minted prints can be displayed beautifully with lighter options, some heavy-duty adhesive strips can support up to 16 pounds per pack. For those statement limited edition pieces, try using multiple adhesive hooks spaced evenly—it's like creating a support team for your art!
Q: What can I expect long-term when using these wall-friendly techniques?
A: When used with care, these methods are like stealthy art ninjas—they leave no trace behind! Perfect for renters or those who love to refresh their gallery regularly. Just remember to follow removal instructions with the same care you'd give to framing your favorite piece.
Q: How do I keep my art securely mounted?
A: Clean walls are your canvas! Before applying any adhesive, give your wall a quick swipe with rubbing alcohol. For heavier pieces, let adhesives bond for about an hour—think of it as letting your art and wall get acquainted before the big reveal.
Preserve your space with mindfully displayed art
Nail-free hanging techniques aren't just about keeping your walls pristine; they're your ticket to a world where art and space dance in perfect harmony. With these gentle hanging methods, your home gallery can evolve with your moods, seasons, and inspirations.
Why not start your artistic journey today? Pick a Minted print that speaks to your soul, choose your favorite wall-friendly technique, and watch as your space transforms into a reflection of your personal style. And, if you need some help visualizing how art will look in your space, use the “view art in your room” feature when browsing Minted’s collection from your phone. Happy shopping (and hanging)!