How To Best Put Up Art On Plaster Walls (Easy Guide for Everyone)

Plaster walls are beautiful. They make a home feel warm, classic, and special. But many people feel scared when they want to put art on plaster walls. They worry the wall will crack. They worry the hole will be too big. They worry the art will fall.

In this long and simple guide, I will explain everything you need to know. I will use easy words. I will explain each step slowly. After reading this, you will feel confident. You will know how to hang art safely, cleanly, and beautifully on plaster walls.

1. Understanding Plaster Walls

Plaster walls are not the same as drywall. They are harder. They are thicker. They often have a wooden base behind them called “lath.” Because of this, plaster walls can feel strong but can also chip or crack if you are not careful.

1.1 Why People Love Plaster Walls

• They look smooth and natural.

• They make rooms feel cozy.

• They last a long time.

• They are common in older homes.

1.2 Why Plaster Walls Can Be Difficult

• They can crack if you drill too fast.

• They can crumble if you use the wrong tool.

• They do not grip screws the same way drywall does.

• You must use special anchors or hooks.

Understanding this helps you choose the right method for hanging art.

2. What You Need Before You Start

Before you hang anything, gather the right tools. Having the right items will make the process easier and safer.

2.1 List of Basic Tools

• Small hammer

• Tape measure

• Pencil

• Masking tape (paper tape)

• Level tool (to keep art straight)

• Small drill or screwdriver (optional)

• Safety goggles (optional)

2.2 List of Hanging Supplies

Not all supplies are used at the same time. You only need some, depending on the method.

• Adhesive hooks

• Picture hanging hooks (especially “plaster wall hooks”)

• Screw-in anchors for plaster

• Toggle bolts

• Nails (thin, strong nails only)

• Putty for small repairs (optional)

3. Choosing the Best Hanging Method

The best method depends on the weight of your art. Heavy items need strong support. Light items can use many simple methods.

3.1 For Light Art (0–2 kg / 0–5 lbs)

• Adhesive hooks

• Thin picture nails

• Small plaster hooks

These are safe and do not need drilling.

3.2 For Medium Art (2–4 kg / 5–10 lbs)

• Strong picture hooks

• Screw-in anchors

• Small screws with anchors

This gives more security.

3.3 For Heavy Art (4–10 kg / 10–25 lbs and more)

• Toggle bolts

• Heavy-duty anchors

• Screws into wall studs (best for very heavy items)

Heavy art must be attached carefully. It is okay to ask a second person to help.

4. Important Safety Tips Before You Begin

Hanging art seems simple. But plaster walls require extra attention.

4.1 Do Not Rush

Moving slowly is better. It protects your wall.

4.2 Do Not Hit Hard

A strong hammer hit can crack the plaster.

4.3 Test Before You Drill

Tap the wall lightly with your knuckle. Listen for:

• Solid sound: may be a stud.

• Hollow sound: only plaster.

4.4 Use Masking Tape

Put masking tape on the spot where you will hammer or drill.
This helps prevent cracking.

4.5 Use the Right Angle

If using a nail, angle it slightly downward.
This gives better weight support.

5. Step-by-Step: Using Adhesive Hooks (Best for Light Art)

Adhesive hooks are very easy to use. They do not need nails or screws.

5.1 Clean the Wall

Use a soft cloth. Remove dust. Adhesive sticks better on clean walls.

5.2 Mark the Spot

Use a pencil to mark the height.

5.3 Stick the Hook

Press firmly for 20–30 seconds.

5.4 Wait

Wait at least 1 hour before hanging art.
For heavy-duty adhesive hooks, wait 24 hours.

5.5 Hang the Art

Place your artwork carefully. Do not pull down strongly on the hook.

Pros

• Easy

• No hole in wall

Cons

• Not good for heavy items

• May remove paint when peeled off

6. Step-by-Step: How To Best Put Up Art On Plaster Walls

Picture hanging hooks are designed for plaster. They have a special shape.

6.1 Mark the Location

Decide how high you want the art.

6.2 Add Tape

Place masking tape on the spot.

6.3 Light Hammer Taps

Hammer the nail gently through the hook.

6.4 Remove Tape

Pull the tape slowly.

6.5 Test Strength

Pull lightly upward on the hook.
If it feels firm, hang your art.

Pros

• Good for light to medium weight

• Small hole

• Easy to install

Cons

• Not strong enough for large heavy frames

7. Step-by-Step: Using Anchors and Screws (For Medium Weight)

When your art weighs more, use an anchor.

7.1 Put Tape on Wall

This protects from cracking.

7.2 Drill a Small Pilot Hole

Use a slow speed. Do not press too hard.

7.3 Insert Anchor

Push the anchor into the hole.

7.4 Screw It In

Insert a screw into the anchor. Leave part of the screw out for hanging.

7.5 Test It

Pull gently on the screw.

Pros

• Very strong

• Good for medium-heavy art

Cons

• Makes a bigger hole

• Requires a drill

8. Step-by-Step: How To Best Put Up Art On Plaster Walls

Toggle bolts are best for heavy items because they spread weight inside the wall.

8.1 Drill a Hole

Large enough for the toggle wings to pass through.

8.2 Insert the Bolt

Fold the wings and push through the hole.

8.3 Tighten the Screw

Hold the bolt as you tighten.

8.4 Hang the Art

Use a strong wire or bracket.

Pros

• Very strong

• Safe for heavy items

Cons

• Big hole

• Harder to remove later

9. How To Best Put Up Art On Plaster Walls

Finding a stud helps you hang heavy objects safely.

9.1 Use a Stud Finder

Electronic stud finders work on plaster but may be less accurate.

9.2 Look for Clues

• Outlets and switches are usually attached to studs.

• Vertical wood lines behind plaster (tap and listen).

• Baseboard nails often go into studs.

9.3 If You Find a Stud

Use screws directly into the wood. This is the strongest method.

10. How High Should You Hang Art?

There is a common rule for nice placement.

10.1 Eye-Level Rule

Hang art at 150 cm (57 inches) from the floor to the center of the artwork.

10.2 For Gallery Walls

Keep the center line the same for all art.

10.3 Over Furniture

• Over a sofa: 15–20 cm above

• Over a table: 20–30 cm above

• Large art: keep centered with furniture

10.4 Use a Level

Use a level tool so the art is straight.

11. Avoid These Common Mistakes

11.1 Using Big Nails

Big nails crack plaster.

11.2 Hitting Too Hard

Gentle taps are best.

11.3 Hanging Without Measuring

Your art may look unbalanced.

11.4 Using Weak Adhesive Hooks for Heavy Art

This can cause dangerous falls.

12. How to Hang Art Without Making Any Holes

If your landlord does not allow holes, you still have options.

12.1 Adhesive Strips

These hold small frames.

12.2 Leaning Art

Lean large art on a shelf or on top of a dresser.

12.3 Art Rails

Install one rail high on the wall and hang art with wires.

13. Fixing Small Mistakes or Holes

If you change your mind, you can fix small holes.

13.1 Use Putty

Putty fills small nail holes easily.

13.2 Smooth With Finger

Wipe away extra putty.

13.3 Paint Over It

Use a small brush.

14. Caring for Your Art After Hanging

Your art should look beautiful for many years.

14.1 Keep It Away From Sunlight

Sunlight can fade colors.

14.2 Dust Once a Month

Use a soft cloth.

14.3 Check Hooks Every 6 Months

Make sure they are still tight.

15. Creating a Gallery Wall on Plaster

A gallery wall is a group of frames hung together.

15.1 Plan on the Floor

Place frames on the ground first.
Try different layouts.

15.2 Use Paper Templates

Cut paper the same size as your frames.
Tape the paper to the wall first.

15.3 Keep 5–8 cm Between Frames

This looks clean and organized.

16. When to Hire a Professional

Sometimes it is better to get help.

16.1 If the Art Is Very Heavy

Over 15–20 kg (35–45 lbs).

16.2 If the Wall Is Very Old

Old plaster can be delicate.

16.3 If You Are Not Confident

A professional can do it quickly and safely.

17. Summary Checklist

Before Hanging

• Measure

• Mark

• Choose right tool

• Use tape

During Hanging

• Move slowly

• Use correct angle

• Support weight properly

After Hanging

• Check level

• Clean area

• Enjoy your art!

18. Final Thoughts

Plaster walls may look difficult, but with the right tools and simple steps, anyone can hang art safely. The key is to move slowly, plan carefully, and choose the right method for the weight of your artwork.

Now you know how to use adhesive hooks, picture hooks, anchors, screws, and toggle bolts. You also know how to find studs, measure correctly, and fix small holes.