Hanging a picture should be a simple way to personalize your space, not a source of frustration. The Everbilt picture hanging kit is a popular choice for DIYers because it provides everything needed to mount a frame securely to the wall. This guide walks you through the entire process, focusing on the specific components of the kit and the best practices to ensure your artwork stays level and damage-free.
Understanding the Everbilt Kit Contents
Before you start hammering, it is essential to identify every piece in the package. The Everbilt kit is designed to be comprehensive, and using the correct component for the right task is the first step toward a professional look. Typically, the kit includes a mixture of hooks, wires, and anchors designed to work together seamlessly.
Hardware Breakdown: Hooks and Wire
The most recognizable parts of the kit are the metal hooks and the coiled picture wire. The metal hooks usually come in pairs and feature a durable metal construction with a flat lip. This lip is specifically designed to cradle the wire securely, preventing it from slipping off during installation or while the frame is hanging. The picture wire is typically a strong, flexible steel cable coated in plastic, allowing for tension and slight movement without fraying.
| Component | Purpose | Common Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Hollow Wall Anchor | Provides grip in drywall | Secures the hook to the wall |
| Screw | Fastens the anchor/hook | Creates a stable anchor point |
| Picture Wire | Suspends the frame | Attached to the hooks on the back |
| Metal Hooks | Lock the wire in place | Secured at each end of the wire |
Preparation and Measurement
Success in picture hanging starts long before the first hole is drilled. You must calculate the exact placement of the hooks on the back of your frame. A common mistake is to attach the wire at the very top of the frame, which causes the artwork to tilt forward. Instead, you should measure down from the top of the frame and secure the wire at a point approximately one-third to one-quarter of the way down the back of the frame. This angle ensures the hook holds the weight effectively and keeps the picture straight on the wall.
Installation Process: From Wall to Art
With the wire attached to the frame, the next phase is preparing the wall. Start by deciding where you want the center of the picture to be and mark that spot lightly with a pencil. If you are hanging the picture over a piece of furniture, a good rule of thumb is to align the center of the art with the back of the couch or shelf. Once you have your location, you will need to translate that spot into where the two hooks will sit on the wall. Measure the distance between the two hooks on the back of your frame and transfer that exact measurement to the wall. This precision is what prevents the picture from looking crooked after it is hung.
Drilling and Driving
If you are installing into drywall rather than a stud, you must use the hollow wall anchors provided. Tap the anchor into the wall until it is flush, then use the screw to secure the metal hook. You should drive the screw in until the hook is snug against the wall but still able to rotate slightly. This rotation is necessary to lift the hook into place once the wire is engaged. Do not overtighten the screw at this stage; you just need a firm base that will not pull out of the wall under tension.
Hanging the Frame
This is the moment of truth. Lift the picture frame and engage the wire with one of the installed hooks. It is helpful to have a second person to hold the frame steady while you secure the other side. Once both sides are on the hooks, gently pull the frame forward until the metal lip locks into place. You should feel a slight click or resistance indicating that the wire is securely seated. Step back and assess the level; most smartphones have a built-in level app that can help you ensure the frame is perfectly straight before you let go.
Troubleshooting and Final Checks
Even with careful planning, you might encounter issues. If the picture sits too high or too low on the wall, you can adjust the wire loops on the hooks. Sliding the wire to a slightly higher notch will lower the picture, while moving it to a lower notch will raise it. Additionally, check the tension of the wire. If the frame is loose, it means the wire is too slack; if it is difficult to hang, the wire is too tight. Adjust the wire length until the frame hangs securely with a small amount of give, ensuring the hooks are not bending under the strain of the weight.