0

This might be a 2 part question so I can break it out into two parts if needed.

  1. How do I hang a frame with a sawtooth hanger onto a wall with a nail?
  2. Can I use a screw and anchor on the wall to hang the frame?

We got a framed picture as a gift and the frame had a sawtooth hanger installed on it. I bought a picture hanging kit but after hammering some picture hooks into the wall, it seems like hooks are not the way to hang frames with a sawtooth hanger.

After doing some research on google, one webpage said I'm supposed to use a flat head nail to hang the frame on. However, I'm having some trouble visualizing how to do it because the instructions on the page said to hammer it in at a 45 degree angle. If I do that, I can't see how the frame can sit on the nail head since the nail head is at an angle but the sawtooth hanger is flush with the frame.

I was thinking of putting a screw and drywall anchor into the wall for the hanger to sit on but from searching online, I haven't found anyone suggesting this so my idea might be a stupid one.

So back to my original questions, what is the proper way to hang a frame with a sawtooth hanger, do it with a nail in the wall or do it with a screw and anchor?

1
  • 1
    Usually saw tooth hangers are put on the back of a picture or something you want to hang then a nail is driven so the head is ~1/16 of an inch from contacting the surface. The nail head keeps it from coming off until lifted. Think of a regular small nail like a 4 or 6 penny nail (a small version of a 16 penny nail used in framing).
    – Ed Beal
    Jan 1, 2021 at 5:11

1 Answer 1

3

A nail with small or no head - like a finish nail - would have to be at a 45-degree angle in order to hold the picture without it sliding right off.

A nail with a relatively large head - like a common nail - can be hammered straight in.

Screws can also work well, and let you easily adjust as needed. Wood screws are technically "best" for this, but a drywall screw will work just fine in most cases.

Note that a small nail or a picture hook is designed to go just into the drywall and hold a few pounds. If you are hanging something heavy (e.g., a big mirror), then you should find the studs and use a longer nail or a screw through the drywall and into the studs so that the stud is supporting the item, not the drywall.

1
  • 2
    A screw, like a wood screw or drywall screw will work reasonably well, also. However, it will need to be somewhat slender to allow the valley between 2 teeth on the hangar to sit on it well enough to remain level through small vibrations of the wall (as caused by walking through the house).
    – FreeMan
    Jan 1, 2021 at 15:36

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.