How to Anchor a Frame on a Wall

The most effective way to secure a frame to a wall is to anchor it. Wall anchors grip the material of the wall and distribute the weight of the frame. With an anchor, you can hang much heavier objects than with nails or screws alone. There are several types of wall anchors. Some are better suited to drywall, others to concrete, brick and other solid surfaces. What type of anchor you use to hang your frame will depend on the wall material and how much the frame weighs.

Pencil
Drill
Drill bits

Instructions

- 1
  Mark the spot on the wall with a pencil where you intend to insert the wall anchor. If you are using a drywall anchor to anchor a frame on drywall, you do not have to find a stud. In fact, lightweight drywall studs may break if they come into contact with wooden studs.
- 2
  Pre-drill a pilot hole if necessary. Medium-weight anchors like plastic drywall anchors and concrete anchors require pilot holes. Wall anchors labeled "self-drilling" do not. Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the anchor, roughly the size of the screw that will go inside it.
- 3
  Insert the anchor into the wall. Screw plastic anchors into their pilot holes according to the instructions on the label. However, most plastic anchors are inserted by manipulating and pushing with your fingers or a supplied tool. If necessary, you can tap them flush with the wall with a hammer. Screw self-drilling anchors into the wall with a no. 2 Phillip's tip or the bit specified on the package's label.
- 4
  Screw a screw into the wall anchor with a drill or screwdriver. Do not screw the screw all the way into the wall. Leave a fraction of an inch protruding, enough to hang your frame on.

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