How To Use a Picture Hanging Kit—2 Hacks That Make It Even Easier

Hanging framed photos or wall art can seem daunting, especially if you're afraid of making big holes in your wall. That's why "Trading Spaces" star Carter Oosterhouse is such a fan of picture hanging kits.

You can purchase picture hanging kits for around $5 at any major store or online, according to Carter, so they're great for when you want wall décor on a budget.

"They're the smartest thing in the world, because you can actually hang this nail into the wall and you don't have to find a stud," Carter says. "I feel like I talk about it all the time, but not a lot of people actually know how to use it."

The design pro is demonstrating the best way to hang your artwork using a picture hanging kit — and he's also sharing 2 genius DIY tool hacks that make the process even easier.

HOW TO USE A PICTURE HANGING KIT

Most basic picture hanging kits contain a hook that serves as the hanger, and a nail that goes through the top of the hook.

The only other tool you'll need is a hammer to drive the nail into the wall. 

HACK #1: Turn Your Hammer Into a Rubber Mallet

To prevent denting the wall, Carter demonstrates how to convert your hammer into a rubber mallet — for just one dollar!

Purchase a rubber chair leg cap for about $1 at most hardware stores or home centers. A 1 ⅛-inch cap will fit tightly over most hammers, he says. 

Then, cut a hole in the cap and fit it over the head of the hammer. Place the picture-hanging nail so it's at a slight angle and pound the nail into the wall until the rubber strikes wood.

HACK #2: Use a Bobby Pin To Make Holding Nails Easier

Carter suggests another hack to lower the risk of accidentally hammering a finger, especially when you're working with small nails or in tight spaces.

Take a regular bobby pin and slide the nail into it for an instant DIY nail holder. The bobby pin helps you grasp the nail while also keeping your fingers at a safe distance from the hammer.

Once the nail is started, simply remove the bobby pin and continue hammering.

Then, all you have to do is place your frame on the installed hook, which hangs at an angle and can hold up to 50 pounds, Carter claims.

RELATED: Here's How You Can Hang BIG Wall Art Without a Single Nail or Hammer