How to Hang Prints on a wall without nails

Ever stared at a blank wall and thought, “How can I put up my amazing new print without turning my wall into a colander?”

You’re not alone! Whether you’re renting and can’t go full DIY with a hammer and nails, or just want a no-damage solution, there are plenty of ways to get your prints up without ruining your walls. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best nail-free methods, from adhesive strips to washi tape, and even some creative alternatives. No holes, no hassle – just a stylish space filled with your favourite artwork.

Table Of Contents

1. Why Avoid Nails?
2. Command Strips: The Go-To Solution
3. Washi Tape: A Fun and Colourful Option
4. Poster Putty: A Classic That Still Works
5. Hanging Rails and Picture Ledges
6. Magnetic Hanging Systems
7. Clotheslines and Clip Displays
8. Leaning Prints for a Laid-Back Look
9. Mix and Match: Combining Methods
10. Other Creative Methods to Try
11. Final Thoughts
FAQ
FURTHER READING….
A Few of Our Products…

'Believe It or Not' print. The words 'Believe It or Not I'd Hit the Bottom For You' in black block capitals in a wavy style, on off-white background. The Royston Club inspired indie music wall art. Colour combo 1. On green apartment wall. MaadWeb.

1. Why Avoid Nails?

Yes, nails are the traditional way to hang framed prints, but they can come with their fair share of problems. If you’re renting, your landlord probably isn’t keen on a wall full of holes. Even if you own your home, constant hammering, re-positioning, and filling in mistakes can be a pain in the behind. Also, if you love to switch up your artwork frequently, nail-free solutions make changing things around so much easier.

We’ve all heard stories of angry landlords who are itching to keep hold of your deposit, so even the tiniest hole in the wall can cost hundreds of pounds. This means you need to get creative with hanging prints (or live in a beige world, and nobody wants that!). There are loads of ways to display prints without causing damage, and they often look better than the traditional nail-and-hook method!

2. Command Strips: The Go-To Solution

Ask anyone how to hang prints without nails, and Command Strips will likely be the first thing they mention. These little lifesavers are strong, damage-free, and can hold a surprising amount of weight.

How to Use Them:

Clean your wall with rubbing alcohol – the proper stuff, not that bottle of Rum that you got for Christmas. This is important, all dust and grease needs to go if you want your strips to hold STRONG!
Stick the strips onto the back of your print or frame.
Press the print firmly against the wall and hold for about 30 seconds.
Wait an hour before hanging for it to have its full strength (patience is key!).

Command Strips are perfect for framed prints, but make sure you check the weight limit before hanging your prized A1-sized poster of Live Forever.

I once used Command Strips to create an entire gallery wall in my living room. The best part? I could adjust and rearrange my prints without a single hole in sight.

3. Washi Tape: A Fun and Colourful Option

Washi tape isn’t just for journals – it’s also an easy and creative way to stick up prints. Originating from Japan, washi tape is a decorative, removable tape that won’t damage your walls or prints.

Why It’s Great:

Comes in loads of colours and patterns.
No sticky residue when removed.
Ideal for a casual, artsy look.

When I was at University, I used to use washi tape to frame my prints in a faux-mount style – it was budget-friendly, fun and I didn’t have to put any holes in my Halls walls. The flexibility to swap designs and layouts without commitment can help make your space feel ever-changing and fresh.

'I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor' Print. Pink with a subtle disco ball and the words 'I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor' in blue, yellow and purple with a black shadow. In busy bedroom. Colour combo 7. MaadWeb.

4. Poster Putty: A Classic That Still Works

Remember using Blu Tack to put up posters as a kid? Well, good news – it still works! Brands like Blu Tack and White Tack are perfect for lightweight prints and posters.

Best Practices:

Use small blobs at each corner and press firmly.
Avoid greasy or textured walls, as putty might not stick well.
Don’t use it for valuable or irreplaceable prints – it can leave slight marks over time.

For me, poster putty is the go-to for short-term displays – perfect for a rotating selection of music prints above my desk. I always print my new designs out and stick them up for a couple of days – if I still like them , they go on my site. Just don’t forget to check if it leaves an oily residue on certain wall types!

'Ta-Ra A Bit' Print. Off white with 'Ta-Ra a Bit' in multi colour block capital letters with a black shadow in a cartoon-y comic book font. Birmingham, West Midlands wall art. Colour combo 1. Against tiled wall. MaadWeb.

5. Hanging Rails and Picture Ledges

If you’re looking for something a bit more permanent (but still nail-free), picture ledges or hanging rails are a brilliant solution. Brands like IKEA sell sleek floating shelves that let you lean multiple prints in a stylish layered look.

Why You’ll Love This:

No commitment – swap prints easily.
Works for both framed and unframed prints.
Adds depth and style to a gallery wall.

I installed a picture ledge in my living room, and it transformed the space. Now, I can switch up my favourite lyric prints (and record sleeves) without constantly patching up holes.

'We'll Live and Die in These Towns' print. The words in sky blue capitals with black shadow over a design like the Coventry City 2019-2020 away kit. The Enemy & Coventry City FC inspired music lyric wall art. Colour combo 8. Against tiled wall. MaadWeb.

6. Magnetic Hanging Systems

Magnets aren’t just for fridges – they’re also a genius way to display prints. Magnetic poster hangers are sleek wooden strips that hold your print in place using strong magnets. Brands like Stiicks and Moebe offer stylish, minimalist options.

How It Works:

Simply sandwich the top and bottom of your print between two magnetised strips.
Stick it to the wall with adhesive or lean it against a shelf.
No risk of creasing or damage to your prints.

And if all else fails? Leaning prints against the wall is a valid aesthetic choice. No effort required.

7. Clotheslines and Clip Displays

For a creative, DIY-style display, try stringing up a wire or twine across your wall and using mini pegs to hang your prints. It’s a fun, flexible method that works well for an informal gallery wall. This can look great, but I’ve found it can also look when you were younger and your mum used to hang Christmas cards up in your kitchen.

8. Leaning Prints for a Laid-Back Look

If you’re not a fan of sticking anything to your walls, why not lean your prints instead? Large statement pieces look effortlessly cool when propped up on a shelf, sideboard, or even the floor.

Or, alternatively, you could try standing frames. These look cool and you can stand them anywhere there’s a flat surface.

9. Mix and Match: Combining Methods

Why stick to just one method? The best displays often mix different techniques. Try using washi tape for smaller prints, a picture ledge for larger ones, and command strips for framed pieces.

'Anti Hero' print. Off-white with 'It must be exhausting always rooting for the...' along the top in yellow with a blue outline and 'Anti Hero' in multi colour angled block text. Colour combo 2. On corner desk. MaadWeb.

10. Other Creative Methods to Try

Velcro Strips: Similar to command strips but allow even easier swapping of prints.
Foam Mounting Tape: Great for a sleek, floating look.
Pegboards: A great option if you want to create an interactive, ever-changing display.

11. Final Thoughts

Hanging prints without nails isn’t just possible – it’s easy, stylish, and renter-friendly. Whether you go for command strips, washi tape, or a picture ledge, there’s a solution for every space and style. So go ahead, fill those walls with your favourite lyrics, funny quotes, and iconic sports moments – all without a single hammer in sight!

Shop now and give your room the glow-up it deserves!

FAQ

Can I hang heavy frames without nails?

Yes! Command Strips and heavy-duty Velcro strips can support framed prints, but make sure they are properly secured! Check the weight rating on the packaging and follow the instructions carefully. If your frame is on the heavier side, consider using multiple strips for added support or another method. You may also want to place your frame against a sturdy piece of furniture as an extra precaution.

Will adhesive strips damage my walls?

Most adhesive strips are designed to be damage-free, meaning they shouldn’t leave marks or residue when removed correctly (check the packaging before you take my word for it, though). However, different wall surfaces react differently. It’s always a good idea to test a small, hidden area first. Painted walls, in particular, can sometimes peel when strips are removed too quickly, so take your time and follow the removal instructions.

What’s the best way to hang prints on a textured wall?

Textured walls can be tricky, as adhesive strips and putty may not stick as well. Foam mounting tape tends to work better, as it provides a stronger grip on uneven surfaces. Alternatively, consider using hanging rails, picture ledges, or even adhesive hooks with wire hangers for a secure and stylish look.

How do I remove prints without leaving marks?

If you’re using Command Strips, pull the tab straight down slowly instead of yanking it away from the wall. This prevents damage and ensures a clean removal. For poster putty, gently roll it off with your fingers instead of pulling, and if there’s any residue left, a small amount of rubbing alcohol should help. If you’re dealing with washi tape, remove it at a 45-degree angle to minimise any paint peeling.

Can I reuse adhesive strips or putty?

Some adhesive strips are designed for one-time use, while others (like certain Velcro strips) can be reused by replacing the sticky backings. Poster putty can usually be reused multiple times, but it may lose its stickiness over time, especially if it collects dust. Washi tape is generally single-use, as it loses adhesion when removed.