Displaying children’s artwork in the home is more than just decorative; it affirms their creativity and efforts. Showcasing kids’ art can significantly boost their self-esteem, making them feel proud and valued. It provides a tangible reminder that their imaginative expressions are cherished, encouraging further artistic endeavors.
Moreover, displaying their creations prominently can stimulate their creativity, fostering an environment where artistic expression is celebrated.
This article will guide you through the process of how to hang kids art, from choosing the best pieces and preparing them to explore various creative display ideas and techniques. By the end, readers will understand the steps and tools needed to create a beautiful and meaningful display of their children’s artwork.
Preparing to Hang Kids’ Art
Choosing the Right Space
When deciding where to hang your children’s artwork, selecting high-traffic areas is key. These spaces, such as the living room, hallway, or your child’s bedroom, ensure that family members and visitors frequently see and appreciate their creative expressions.
Additionally, lighting and visibility should be considered when choosing the right spot; areas with good natural or artificial light will highlight the vibrant colors and details of the artwork. Placing the art in well-lit, prominent locations will enhance its visual impact and create an inspiring environment for your child.
Gathering Materials
To get started, gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need frames, mounting tape, hooks, and nails to hang the artwork securely. Consider using a measuring tape to ensure precision for a more polished finish.
Matting can add a professional touch to the displays, while display boards offer a versatile solution for rotating pieces. Optional items like a variety of frame styles and sizes can help create a unique and cohesive look. All these materials will make the process smoother and ensure your child’s artwork is beautifully displayed.
Selecting and Preparing Artwork
Choosing the Best Pieces
When it comes to choosing which pieces of your child’s artwork to display, several criteria can guide your selection process. Consider pieces that showcase a vibrant use of color, as these can add a lively touch to any room.
Artwork that follows a particular theme, such as nature, family, or favorite characters, can also make for a cohesive and visually appealing display. Additionally, don’t overlook the sentimental value of certain pieces. Artwork that commemorates special events, trips, or milestones holds a unique place in your family’s history and deserves a spot on the wall.
Involving your children in the selection process is just as important as the criteria themselves. This makes them feel valued and can be a fun and educational activity.
Encourage your children to pick their favorite pieces and explain why they chose them. This can lead to meaningful conversations about their artistic journey and motivations, further enhancing their self-esteem and connection to their art.
Preparing the Artwork
Before hanging, it’s important to ensure the artwork is in top condition. Start by cleaning each piece gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or smudges. If the artwork has been stored rolled up or folded, you must flatten it out. This can be done by placing it between heavy books for a few days or using a low-heat iron with a cloth barrier to smooth out any creases.
Adding a protective layer to the artwork is a good way to preserve it for years to come. Lamination can protect against spills and stains while making colors pop. Alternatively, placing the artwork in a glass frame offers protection and adds a polished finish to the display. Both options will help to safeguard your child’s creations, ensuring they remain vibrant and intact while on display.
Creative Display Ideas
Gallery Wall
A gallery wall is a fantastic way to showcase multiple pieces of your child’s artwork cohesively and impressively. Start by deciding on the layout. A symmetrical layout, with evenly spaced frames, creates a clean and organized look. Alternatively, an asymmetrical layout allows more freedom and creativity, often resulting in a dynamic and visually interesting display.
Mixing different frame styles and sizes can add depth and character to your gallery wall. To keep things lively, you could use a combination of colorful frames, simple black-or-white frames, and even some frameless mounts. To ensure cohesiveness in the overall design, consider selecting frames with a common element, such as color or material.
When planning your gallery wall, lay the frames out on the floor first to experiment with different arrangements before finalizing your design on the wall. Use a level and measuring tape to ensure everything hangs straight and aligns perfectly. This attention to detail can significantly enhance the display’s visual appeal, making it a stunning focal point in your home.
Rotating Display
A rotating display system, like corkboards or magnetic boards, is perfect for families who want a fresh and ever-changing showcase of their children’s art. Corkboards allow you to easily pin up and remove artwork without damaging it, while magnetic boards offer a sleek and modern alternative.
Both options make it simple to swap out pieces regularly.
Establish a schedule for updates to make the most of a rotating display. You could change the artwork monthly or seasonally, depending on the volume of new creations your child produces. This system keeps the display interesting and ensures that all of your child’s artwork gets its moment in the spotlight.
Art Rails and Clips
Installing art rails for hanging with clips is another versatile and stylish option. Art rails can be mounted on the wall and used with clips or hooks, allowing you to hang multiple pieces with ease. This method offers great flexibility, as you can easily rearrange and add new artwork without worrying about rehanging frames every time.
Wire and hooks can also serve a similar purpose, providing a modern, minimalist look. The wire can be strung across walls or within designated frames, and the hooks can hold artwork of various sizes. This allows for quick changes and makes it easy for children to participate in hanging their own artwork.
The biggest benefit of these systems is the ease of rearrangement and addition. As your child’s collection grows, you can continually update the display without hassle. This method keeps the art display fresh and engages your child in the creative process, making it a fun and interactive family project.
How to Hang Kids Art: Hanging Techniques
Using Frames
Framing your child’s artwork gives it a polished and professional look, preserving the work for years. To frame artwork properly, start by selecting frames that complement the size and style of the pieces.
Remove the frame’s backing and place the artwork inside, ensuring it is centered. Use acid-free matting to prevent any discoloration over time, and secure the backing tightly. For added protection, consider using museum glass, which reduces glare and filters out UV rays.
When securely hanging frames with hooks or nails, use a level to ensure the frame will hang straight. Mark the wall lightly with a pencil where the hook or nail will go. Use picture-hanging hooks or wall anchors to support the weight of heavier frames. Drive the nail or screw at a slight angle into the wall to ensure maximum grip. Once the hardware is in place, hang your frame and adjust it as needed to ensure it’s level.
To prevent damage to both walls and the art, avoid hanging frames in direct sunlight where colors can fade. Use rubber bumpers on the back corners of the frames to prevent them from scuffing the wall. Regularly check the stability of the hanging hardware to ensure it remains secure over time.
Mounting Without Frames
Mounting artwork without frames offers a more casual and flexible display solution. Using adhesive mounting strips or tape can hold lightweight pieces like sketches or posters without damaging the walls. These strips come in various sizes and can be easily removed, making them perfect for changing the artwork regularly.
Another creative option is hanging artwork with clothespins on a string or wire. Attach the string or wire between two hooks or nails, then clip the art in place with clothespins. This method is particularly useful for displaying multiple pieces at once and can be updated effortlessly.
You can also explore creative alternatives such as washi tape or binder clips for a unique display. Washi tape, being decorative and gentle on surfaces, can frame the artwork directly on the wall. Binder clips can hold artwork securely and be hung from small nails or hooks, providing a minimalist and modern touch.
Creating a Custom Display Board
A custom display board can be an ideal solution for arranging and presenting multiple pieces of artwork. You can either build a display board using materials like cork or buy a pre-made one from a store. Once you have your display board, arrange the artwork on it to find the most pleasing layout.
Secure the pieces with pins, clips, or adhesive strips.
Position the board on the wall at a height easily reachable by your child so they can easily add or rearrange their artwork. Use sturdy wall anchors or screws to mount the board securely. This custom display board serves as a practical solution for showcasing art and offers an interactive and evolving display that can grow alongside your child’s creativity.
Maintenance and Rotation
Maintaining and keeping the display fresh can be as enjoyable as setting it up. Regularly clean frames and display materials using a soft cloth to remove dust and smudges, ensuring your child’s artwork always looks its best. A gentle non-abrasive cleaner will prevent streaks and maintain clarity for glass surfaces. When using adhesive strips or tape, check periodically to ensure they remain secure.
Scheduling regular rotations and updates is key to keeping the art display engaging. Set a specific time to refresh the showcase, such as the start of each month or with the change of seasons. This not only highlights newly created artworks but also maintains interest for both family members and visitors. Encourage your child to participate in the rotation process, which can be an exciting opportunity for them to curate their own mini art gallery.
Encouraging Kids’ Participation
Involving your child in displaying their artwork can significantly boost their confidence and sense of ownership. Allowing kids to choose where and how to display their pieces gives them control over their creative expression.
Provide them with options such as frames, clips, or adhesive strips, and let them have a say in the layout and arrangement. This decision-making opportunity fosters a sense of responsibility and enhances their appreciation for their own works of art.
Encouraging children to help hang and arrange their artwork can turn the process into an engaging and interactive activity. Equip them with age-appropriate tools and guide them through the steps of mounting their pieces.
This hands-on involvement promotes fine motor skills and introduces basic spatial arrangement and design concepts. Parents can take this time to teach children about the importance of balance, symmetry, and aesthetics while having fun together.
Making it a Fun Activity
Turning the art display process into a family project can create treasured memories and reinforce family bonds. Dedicate a specific time for everyone to gather the art supplies and work collaboratively on setting up the display.
This collaborative effort can be a delightful experience for both parents and children, making it a regular family tradition.
To make the activity even more special, celebrate new additions to the art wall with small ceremonies. When a new piece is added, a simple acknowledgment or a round of applause can make your child feel proud and appreciated. These mini-celebrations underline the value of their creative efforts and motivate them to continue exploring their artistic talents.
Conclusion
Displaying children’s artwork at home can be a joyful and rewarding experience. By following a few straightforward steps on how to hang kids art, you can create a vibrant and personalized gallery.
Start by selecting the right location, using proper hardware for framed pieces, or opting for creative mounting techniques for unframed art. Remember to maintain and rotate the display to keep it fresh and engaging.
Hanging your child’s artwork celebrates their creativity and boosts their confidence and sense of accomplishment. It provides an excellent opportunity for family bonding and turns your home into a living gallery of cherished memories. Embrace this fun and enriching process by getting started today, and watch as your child’s art continues to bring joy and inspiration to your home.
