Funky Ways to Hang Letters

Inside Frames

• Hang letters inside picture frames, adding some oomph into your design by giving each letter its own frame. Install a collage of empty frames, each a different color, shape and size, in horizontal or vertical rows, with one row of frames per word to spell out a phrase or sentence. Or, wrap a phrase across a wall or around the entire room. Alternatively, hang the frames in a jumble or a snail-like swirl with your first initial or all of your initials inside each frame to form a sea of familiar characters. For extra kick, use letters in assorted fonts, colors and sizes.

From Above

• Decorative, lightweight chain and S-hooks are ideal for hanging letters. Either hang one length of chain per word straight down from a hook in a ceiling joist, or suspend a word in banner-like fashion from one side of the room to another. Slip one end of each S-shaped hook through the hanger on the back of each letter. Slip the other end of the hook onto a chain link wherever desired. If your letter doesn't have a hanging apparatus on the back, create it using picture-hanging hardware, or with a loop of colorful ribbon stapled or glued in place. Or, hang each letter at differing heights from wool, rope, ribbon or fishing line. Hang your letters outdoors from low tree branches or the edge of a balcony where they'll come to life with an occasional breeze.

Across a Rod or Rack

• Mount a decorative wrought-iron or silver-finish curtain rod with attractive finials wherever you want to hang your letters. Rather than a rod, opt for a branch as a creative alternative. Set the branch on the rod’s cradle-like hardware ready to hold your name or any word that fits. A coat rack with a knob on which you can hang each letter is also fair game for artistic display.

Hanging Individual, Lightweight Letters

• No matter what you’re using to hang your letters -- a ribbon, twig, rope, a plaque, fishing net, the fridge -- you can use a variety of attachment options for lightweight letters, including fabric and paper. Glue the letters to luggage tags; hold up small characters with showy shower-curtain rings and large initials with clipboards; pin them in place with plain or hand-painted clothespins; or stick the letters to metal objects. Use stylish magnets or corkboards with unusual tacks or pushpins to affix your letters.