Hanging a Poster on Your Wall: Different Ways to Do It

A poster on your wall will spice up your space. It’s a fun and functional way to bring life to any room. Posters come in all shapes and sizes, just like homes, from tiny to giant. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to refresh your decor, an architect planning a new design, or a business owner aiming to create an inviting atmosphere, a poster on the wall can be a game-changer. In this blog, we’ll explore different ways to hang a poster on a wall, and share some creative ideas.

Traditional Methods for Hanging Posters on the wall

Most of us have mastered the ancient art of hanging posters with trusty thumbtacks, tape, or sticky putty blobs. But did you know there are some clever new ways to hang posters? Let’s first pay homage to these traditional methods before unveiling the innovative ones.

Blue Tack

Description:
Blue tack is a reusable adhesive putty that is used for attaching lightweight items to walls.

Pros:

  • Ease of Use: Simple to apply and readily available.
  • Reusability: Can be reused multiple times.
  • No Tools Required: No need for nails or drilling

Cons:

  • Damage to Walls: Can leave greasy marks and pull off paint.
  • Limited Holding Power: Not suitable for heavier posters.
  • Aesthetic Issues: Visible lumps are ugly.

Manufacturers:

Blue tack is a popular choice for hanging posters on the wall, particularly for those who frequently change their wall decor. It’s a pressure-sensitive adhesive putty used to mount lightweight objects to walls or surfaces. Although convenient, it’s not the best option for heavier posters or long-term use, as it can leave greasy marks and potentially pull off paint or wallpaper when removed.

Blu-Tack product packaging with a close-up of a person applying it to the back of a frame for hanging.
A colourful poster hanging unevenly on a wall, illustrating the issues of improper hanging methods.
Close-up of a wall with visible damage caused by removing adhesive, illustrating the risks of using temporary hanging solutions.

Velcro Strips

Description:
Velcro strips are fasteners that use a hook-and-loop system to attach objects to walls.

Pros:

  • Adjustability: Easy to reposition.
  • Strong Hold: Can support heavier poster on the wall.
  • Clean Removal: Leaves no residue if you have flawlessly applied paint

Cons:

  • Visible Strips: Can be seen behind thin posters.
  • Limited Reusability: Adhesive weakens over time.
  • Cost: More expensive than other methods.
  • Damage to walls: Can pull off paint that is not freshly and perfectly applied

Manufacturers:

Velcro strips offer a versatile and strong solution for hanging posters on the wall. They use a hook-and-loop system, providing a strong hold that can support heavier posters on your wall. Velcro strips are also adjustable, making it easy to reposition your posters without damaging the wall. However, the adhesive can weaken over time, and the strips may be visible behind thin posters.

Velcro Stick On Tape packaging with a close-up of the tape being applied to a frame.
Close-up of Velcro adhesive applied to the back of a frame for hanging.
Hand peeling off adhesive from a wall, causing damage to the paint and plaster.

Command Strips

Description:
Command strips are adhesive strips designed for hanging pictures and posters on the wall, without damaging the walls.

Pros:

  • Damage-Free: Removes cleanly without leaving marks on impeccable paint finish.
  • Strong Hold: Suitable for heavier frames.
  • Variety: Available in different sizes and strengths.

Cons:

  • Surface Limitations: Doesn’t adhere well to textured surfaces.
  • Single Use: Not reusable.
  • Preparation Needed: Surfaces must be cleaned thoroughly and requires sleek and pristine paint finish.
  • Damage to walls: If imperfectly applied paint.

Manufacturers:

Command strips may not adhere well to textured surfaces, and they are generally single-use, requiring thorough surface preparation for optimal adhesion.

Command Strip product packaging displaying picture hanging strips.
Command Strip attached to the back of a wooden frame for easy wall hanging.
Hand peeling off a Command Strip from a wall, causing damage to the paint.

Nails and Screws

Description:

Nails and screws are traditional hardware used to hang heavy items securely on walls.

Pros:

  • Strong and Durable: Can hold very heavy frames.
  • Security: Permanent solution.
  • Versatility: Suitable for various surfaces.

Cons:

  • Wall Damage: Leaves permanent holes.
  • Tools Required: Need a hammer or drill.
  • Aesthetic Issues: Visible hardware.

Manufacturers:

Nails and screws provide a strong and durable solution for hanging heavy posters and frames. They offer a permanent solution and are versatile for use on various surfaces. However, they require tools for installation and leave permanent holes in the wall, which can be a significant drawback for those who frequently change their decor.

When people hang pictures using screws or nails, they often face the frustrating trial-and-error process of getting the artwork positioned just right. They might start with one screw, realize it’s too high, then move it lower, and find it’s too low. Next, they adjust to the right, and then it’s too far left. This results in multiple holes in the wall, making it unsightly and difficult to achieve a clean, professional look. Using screws and nails can quickly turn your wall into a pincushion, filled with unnecessary holes from all the adjustments.

Assortment of nails and screws spread out, illustrating traditional hanging methods.
Severe wall damage with multiple holes caused by screws, illustrating the drawbacks of traditional hanging methods.

Damage-free, Elegant Ways to Hang a Poster on the Wall

When people hang pictures using screws, nails, or adhesive putty, they often face numerous issues: damage to walls, unsightly stains, ripping off paint, and the frustration of single-use products. These traditional methods can leave your wall looking like a pincushion, filled with holes and residue.

There is however an elegant and damage-free hanging solution that ensures your walls remain pristine and your artwork perfectly positioned.

For a more sophisticated and professional look, consider using advanced poster hanging systems like those offered by Artiteq. These systems provide flexibility, ease of use, and a clean aesthetic, suggesting a more classy and elegant way to put up a poster on your wall.

Click Rail System (Wall-attached)

The Click Rail and Click Rail Pro system is a versatile and professional wall-mounting solution for hanging posters on your wall. Available in 2 or 3 metre lengths. The Click Rail  comes in paintable whitewhite primerblack or brushed aluminium coating; while the Click Rail Pro comes in white primer and brushed aluminium coating. The system includes a free fastener kit or can be purchased as rails only for use with your fixings.

Pros:

  1. Versatile and Professional:
    • Suitable for most wall types.
  2. High Weight Capacity:

Cons:

  1. Cost:
    • Higher initial investment compared to basic hanging methods.
  2. Installation:
    • Requires proper mounting, which may be more complex than simpler systems.

Example of Professional Look:

The Click Rail system offers a sleek and modern solution for hanging posters on your wall. This system blends seamlessly with any decor and allows for easy adjustment and changing of posters without damaging the walls. It is ideal for heavy posters and frames, providing a strong hold. The installation requires some setup, and it comes with a higher initial investment compared to traditional methods.

Posters on Wall with Artiteq Click Rail System.

Travel-themed posters hanging on a wall using click rail system for easy and damage-free display. Available at Hang Logic – an Australian Artiteq importer.

Landscape Photo on Wall hanged with Click Rail Pro Railings

A large black and white landscape photo hangs seamlessly on a wall using the Artiteq Click Rail Pro system, showcasing its strong, reliable, and flush ceiling mount features. Available at Hang Logic.

Top Rail System (Ceiling attached)

The Top Rail is a versatile hanging solution available in 2 or 3 metres, with a depth of 7mm and height of 14.3mm. It comes in white and black, and can be fixed onto horizontal surfaces like ceilings, window frames, joinery, and timber ceiling tile support strips. Supporting up to 20kg per metre, it’s perfect for hanging poster on the wall while preserving rendered brick walls.

Pros:

  • Discreet and Elegant: Ideal for minimalist designs.
  • Ceiling Mounted: Creates a floating effect for a modern look.

Cons:

  • Installation Complexity: Requires installation, possibly professional help.
  • Higher Cost: More expensive than simpler hanging solutions.

Example of Professional Look:

The Top Rail system is a discreet and elegant solution, perfect for minimalist designs. This ceiling-mounted system creates a floating effect for a modern look and offers long-lasting durability.

Specifications for Top Rail System hanging pictures on the wall.

The Artiteq Top Rail system is shown with specifications, providing a discreet and elegant solution for ceiling-mounted displays. Available at hang Logic.

Set Poster Snap

The Poster Snap system is a fast and easy way to hang posters on the wall. The poster is simply clamped between two aluminum strips at the top and bottom, also referred to as ‘poster clicking’. The Poster Snap system may be used for posters with widths of 50 cm and 100 cm.

Pros:

  1. Ease of Use:
    • Quick installation and user-friendly design.
    • Simple to change posters as needed.
  2. Professional Appearance:
    • Provides a clean and professional look.
    • Enhances the overall presentation of the poster on your wall.

Cons:

  1. Cost:
    • May be more expensive than basic hanging methods.
    • Initial investment can be higher.

Example of Professional Look:

Artiteq’s Poster Snap is a highly adaptable and efficient solution for hanging posters, banners, and lightweight signage. It integrates seamlessly with various Artiteq rail systems, providing a sleek and professional display solution.

Travel Posters on Wall displayed with Artieq’s set poster snap and Click Rail.

Travel posters clamped between set poster snap and hanged on a wall using the Artiteq Click rail system. The posters are clamped between aluminum strips for secure display. Both available at Hang Logic.

Close-up of the Artiteq Poster Snap showing the clamping mechanism for posters.

Info Rail

The Info Rail is a versatile display system perfect for showcasing photos, drawings, and documents. This system allows you to quickly change displays without damaging the walls, thanks to its triple rubber grip that holds paper and cardboard from 80 gsm to 2 mm thick. Available in lengths of 100200, and 300 cm. Each includes fastener material and end caps.

Pros

  1. Easy to Use: Quick display changes without wall damage.
  2. Secure Hold: Triple rubber grip holds various thicknesses.

Cons

  1. Price: Higher cost compared to traditional method

Example of Professional Look:

The Info Rail is perfect for hanging poster on the wall. Its triple rubber grip securely holds paper and cardboard from 80 gsm to 2 mm thick, allowing quick changes without wall damage. With a sleek design and easy DIY installation, it offers a professional and polished display.

Versatile Display with Artiteq’s Info Rail System from Hang Logic

The Artiteq Info Rail system showcases various photos and documents on a wall, providing a secure and easy-to-use display solution from Hang Logic without damaging the surfaces.

Info Rail +

The Info Rail + includes all the benefits of the standard Info Rail with the addition of a 6-cm-wide shelf at the top, perfect for displaying small photo frames, canvases, greeting cards, and other small craft projects.

Pros

  • Added Shelf: Provides extra space for small items.
  • Versatile Display: Holds paper, cardboard, and small objects securely.

Cons

  • Price: Higher cost compared to the standard Info Rail.

Example of Professional Look:

The Info Rail + is an elegant and convenient way to hang posters on your wall. With its added shelf, you can also display small items like photo frames and greeting cards, making it a versatile and stylish choice for any space.

Hanging Artwork with Artiteq Info Rail + from Hang Logic

A person hangs a small poster on wall using the Artiteq Info Rail + system from Hang Logic, with larger framed artwork displayed above, demonstrating an organized and versatile display method.

Artiteq Info Rail + from Hang Logic

Illustrations depicting the process of inserting a poster into the Artiteq Info Rail + system from Hang Logic. The illustrations include a top shelf with framed photos, highlighting an organized and flexible display method.

Display IT Systems

Pros:

  • Professional Display: Ideal for corporate environments, galleries, and public spaces.
  • Versatility: Available in fixedflexible, and LED options.
  • High Visibility: Especially with the LED system, your posters stand out.

Cons:

  • Initial Setup: Requires some installation effort.
  • Cost: Higher upfront cost but offers long-term benefits.

Display IT Fixed

Multiple posters hanging on a wall using the Display IT Fixed system, arranged in a professional and organized manner.

The Display IT Fixed system provides a professional and orderly way to display photos or documents with acrylic frames that are easy to mount and adjust.

Options:
  • Available in A3 and A4 acrylic frames.
  • Installable in three ways: ceiling-floor, wall-floor, or full wall.

Display IT Flex

Display IT Flex system showcasing 10 photos of children adorably holding their artwork.

The Display IT Flex system allows for flexible photo or document displays, with acrylic frames attached to a Click Rail and stainless steel rods that are easy to reposition.

Options:
  • Available in A3 and A4 acrylic frames.
  • Configurable in portrait or landscape orientation.

Display IT LED

The Display IT LED system is an LED-powered cable system perfect for displaying documents, products, and services in display cabinets.

Features:
  • Available in A3 and A4 LED panels.
  • Configurable in both horizontal and portrait orientations.
  • Offers double-sided displays with translucent paper.
Travel posters displayed on a wall using a cable hanging system, showcasing various travel destinations.

The Display IT systems are designed for professional displays, making them ideal for corporate environments, galleries, and public spaces. They are available in fixed, flexible, and LED options, providing high visibility for your posters. While the cost is higher upfront, these systems offer long-term benefits and a professional look.

Creative Ideas for Displaying a Poster on a Wall

Creating a gallery wall is a popular way to display multiple posters. Arrange posters in a cohesive theme such as nature, abstract art, or vintage prints to add visual interest and tell a story through your collection. A well-curated gallery wall can transform a bland space into a vibrant focal point, showcasing your personal style and interests.

Themed wall with various framed artworks and decorations, creating a cohesive and stylish display.

A themed white wall featuring various framed artworks and decorations, offering a cohesive and stylish way to display posters and pictures.

Use a flexible display system like the Click Rail or Info Rail to easily change out posters. This is great for keeping decor fresh and updated, perfect for seasonal changes or reflecting different holidays. A rotating gallery allows you to keep your space dynamic and ever-changing, providing a new look and feel without the need for permanent changes.

For more poster ideas, you can visit Pinterest.

Framed posters on wall in a living room, showcasing a rotating gallery display with seasonal decor.

A living room displays a rotating gallery with seasonal posters on wall using a flexible display system, keeping the decor fresh and updated.

Educational Displays

Educational posters are perfect for schools and public institutions. Use Artiteq systems to create a dynamic and interactive learning environment. For example, display educational posters on the wall in classrooms or libraries using the Info Rail system. This not only enhances the learning environment but also makes it easy to update and change the displays as needed.

Educational posters of animals and alphabet letters displayed on a wall in a children's room.

A colourful and organized display of educational animal alphabet posters on a wall, perfect for enhancing a children’s learning environment.

Choosing the Right Poster Hanging System

When selecting a poster hanging system, consider the weight and size of your posters, the type of wall, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. Artiteq systems offer various options to suit different needs, ensuring your posters are securely and beautifully displayed. For A3 and A4 size posters, options like Display IT Flex, Display IT Fixed, and Display IT LED are perfect choices.

For more information on hanging posters, refer to our guides on How to Hang up your Pictures, Posters, Art, Paintings and Photos like an expert and What Is the Best Way to Hang Posters.Visit Hang Logic to check out the products.

DIY Tips for Installing Poster on your wall

Installing a poster can be a fun DIY project. Follow these steps for a successful installation:

  1. Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a tape measure, level, drill, and appropriate hanging hardware.
  2. Plan Your Layout: Arrange your posters on the floor to find the best layout.
  3. Install the Hanging System: Follow the instructions for your chosen Artiteq system.
  4. Hang Your Poster on the Wall: Adjust the positioning until satisfied.

Conclusion

Hanging a poster on your wall is an effective way to personalize and enhance any space. With Artiteq systems, you can easily achieve a professional and elegant look, ensuring your posters are displayed securely and beautifully. For more information on our products, visit the Hang Logic blog or check out our product pages. For any questions or personalized assistance, please contact our team at +61 432 924 305 or email us at  team@hanglogic.com.au You can also book an appointment to visit our showroom and discuss your project in person 27 Warwick St, Largs North 5016, Adelaide, South Australia. Our showroom is open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. We look forward to helping you with your project!

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