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How to Hang Sculptures

A well-placed sculpture can add visual interest and depth to any wall. Given the size and composition of most sculptures, you'll need to take particular care when hanging them. An improperly hung sculpture can cause damage to the wall or to the sculpture, and can injure someone if it falls. Mounting your sculpture correctly ensures that your valuable artwork will remain in place for years to come.

Things You'll Need

  • Toggle bolts
  • Pencil
  • Straightedge
  • Level
  • Drill bit
  • Electric drill
  • Screwdriver
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate the hanging mounts on your sculpture. Many sculptures come with these mounts already attached (the mounts are designed to slide over the tops of the toggle bolts you'll be installing in the wall to hold the sculpture). If your sculpture doesn't have hanging mounts, you'll need to attach an appropriately sized length of picture wire to create points to which toggle bolts can be attached. Wrap the picture wire discreetly around important structural points of your sculpture; follow the wire manufacturer's instructions.

    • 2

      Purchase toggle bolts rated for the weight of your sculpture at your local hardware store. The exact number of bolts you'll need will be determined by the hanging surface of your sculpture. If your sculpture is equipped with mounting brackets, purchase enough bolts to secure each bracket. If your sculpture will be hung with picture wire, purchase one bolt for every 24 inches of wire.

    • 3

      Mark the intended location for each toggle bolt with a pencil on the wall where your sculpture will be mounted. Use a straightedge and level to ensure that your marks are even.

    • 4

      Determine the appropriate electric drill bit for predrilling the holes for your bolts. The drill bit should be the same width as the spring-loaded clamp at the end of the toggle bolt. Attach the bit to your electric drill.

    • 5

      Drill through the center of each pencil mark until you've completely penetrated the hanging surface.

    • 6

      Press one toggle bolt through each hole until it snaps into place. Tighten the bolts with a screwdriver until they're flush with the wall.

    • 7

      Lift the sculpture up and onto the toggle bolts. Loop the picture wire or hanging mounts over the bolts, securing the sculpture in place.

Sculpture

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