Unpackaging and Hanging Your New Artwork

New artwork is easiest to damage in the first few minutes after opening it. Go slowly, keep the surface clean, and resist the urge to force a curled print flat.

This guide covers basic unpackaging, flattening, framing, and hanging steps for new art prints.

1. Open the package on a clean surface

Clear a table or clean section of floor before opening the package. Wash and dry your hands, remove food or drinks from the area, and keep scissors or blades pointed away from the print.

If the artwork is in a tube, remove the end cap and let the print slide out gently. Do not pinch the paper edge or pull hard against the curl.

2. Let rolled prints relax

Rolled prints often need time to relax before framing. Place the print image-side up on a clean, dry surface and let it rest. If you need to hold the corners down, use clean books or smooth weights outside the image area with a protective sheet of clean paper between the weight and the print.

Do not iron the print, steam it, spray it, or tape it directly to a surface.

3. Handle the print by the edges

Try not to touch the image area. Oils and moisture from hands can leave marks, especially on darker prints or matte papers.

If the print is large, ask someone to help so the paper does not bend under its own weight.

4. Frame before hanging when possible

A frame protects the print and makes hanging easier. Choose a frame that fits the print size, or use a mat to give the artwork more breathing room.

If the print is valuable, fragile, antique, or difficult to replace, use a professional framer. A framer can recommend archival materials and safer mounting options.

5. Choose the hanging height

For most rooms, the center of the artwork or gallery wall should sit near eye level. Above furniture, leave enough space so the art feels connected to the furniture but does not crowd it.

As a starting point, leave several inches between the top of a sofa, bed, or console and the bottom of the frame. Adjust based on ceiling height, frame size, and the room's proportions.

6. Use the right hanging hardware

Choose hardware based on the frame weight and wall type. Lightweight frames may only need small picture hooks or hanging strips. Heavier frames may need anchors or stronger hardware.

When in doubt, use hardware rated above the frame's weight and follow the hardware instructions.

7. Protect art from avoidable damage

• Keep prints out of direct sun when possible.
• Avoid damp rooms unless the frame and materials are suitable for humidity.
• Do not place unframed paper where it can rub against furniture.
• Do not use tape directly on the artwork.
• Keep packaging materials until you know the piece is safely framed or stored.

Useful supplies

The most useful supplies are simple: clean hands, a clean surface, a level, a pencil, measuring tape, hanging hardware rated for the frame weight, and the right frame.

For finished artwork, browse Rock Paper Scissors wall art. For layout planning, use the gallery-wall guide.

When to get help

If a print arrives damaged, is hard to flatten, or has sentimental or high monetary value, pause before trying to fix it yourself. Contact customer support, a professional framer, or a paper conservator depending on the issue.