A Guide to Decorating with Confidence and Care
There’s a reason exposed brick walls never go out of style. They carry a raw, rustic character—textured, earthy, and architectural. But when it comes time to personalize that canvas with a piece of art, you might find yourself wondering: how to hang painting on brick wall without creating cracks, chaos, or irreversible damage?
How to hang painting on brick wall
Mounting a painting on drywall? Simple. But on brick? The rules change. The tools are different. The approach demands more thought—and a little finesse. Let’s explore exactly how to do it the right way.
Step 1: Assess Your Brick Surface
Not all bricks are created equal. Some are smooth and dense, others are porous and prone to chipping. Before you start hammering, take a close look at the wall you’re working with.
- Recessed mortar lines? That gives you more flexibility.
- Old, brittle brick? You’ll need a gentler method.
- Interior vs. exterior? Outdoor setups require different materials altogether.
The condition of your wall will dictate the method you use—and how permanent the result will be.
Step 2: Choose Your Hanging Method
There are several ways to approach this depending on how much you’re willing to commit and whether you’re working with a rental or your forever home.
1. Brick Clips (No Drilling Needed)
If the bricks have prominent edges and recessed mortar lines, brick clips are an excellent tool. These grip onto the brick’s top and bottom edge with tension—no holes, no adhesive, no stress.
- Best for lightweight to medium-weight art
- Reusable and removable
- No wall damage
They’re especially great for renters or gallery-style setups where you change pieces often.
2. Adhesive Hooks or Mounting Strips
Not all adhesives are created equal—but some industrial-strength mounting strips can handle surprisingly heavy frames. Key to their success is:
- Cleaning the surface thoroughly before application
- Allowing full curing time
- Using products rated specifically for rough surfaces or brick
Avoid these in areas with moisture, like basements or outdoor patios, where the bond may fail over time.
3. Drilling with Masonry Anchors
For a long-term, secure solution—especially for heavier paintings—masonry anchors are the go-to method.
Here’s how to do it:
- Mark the spot for your anchor carefully with a level.
- Use a masonry drill bit to bore into the mortar (not the brick, if possible).
- Insert a masonry anchor or wall plug.
- Screw in a picture hook, eyelet, or wall fastener.
This method is highly secure and nearly permanent, perfect for large or valuable artwork. If you ever remove the piece, the holes can be patched and painted over or filled with fresh mortar.
Step 3: Measure, Level, and Space Correctly
Hanging a painting isn’t just about making it stay on the wall—it’s about making it look intentional.
- Use a level to keep your artwork straight.
- Mark with a pencil first and double-check measurements before committing.
- Consider eye-level placement for medium-sized pieces, or align groupings with the centerline of a room.
Remember: crooked art on a rigid brick wall is glaringly obvious.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Once your painting is up, take a moment to examine it in context.
- Does it sit flush against the wall?
- Does the texture of the brick complement the artwork?
- Is the lighting accentuating the piece or casting awkward shadows?
A strategically placed spotlight or track lighting can highlight both the texture of the brick and the beauty of the art itself.
Read More : How to Hang a Painting on a Brick Wall
Final Thoughts: How to Hang Painting on Brick Wall with Skill
Learning how to hang painting on brick wall isn’t just about brute force or industrial adhesives. It’s about understanding the material you’re working with, choosing the right tools for the job, and approaching the process with care.
Whether you’re adding a single striking canvas or curating a full brick gallery wall, the goal is the same: make it secure, make it look natural, and make sure it stands the test of time.
