How We Rehung Our Heavy Framed Prints Above the Bed: A Simple DIY Guide
Last year we picked up a pair of professionally framed vintage prints—delicate illustrations of Alaska’s berries and wildflowers—at a yard sale for about $10 each. They felt personal since we honeymooned in Alaska, so we spray-painted the frames and mats and hung them on either side of our bed. Recently we decided to move them back above the bed after the previous focal piece came down during a photoshoot.
For months the wall above the bed sat empty while we considered options. Rather than hunt for another animal head or buy something new, we opted to make the most of what we already owned and rehung the framed prints. Because these frames are heavy and require two anchored screws each for secure support, and because we wanted them perfectly centered and level, we approached the task deliberately.
Here’s how we did it, step by step, using a few straightforward tools and a bit of careful measuring. This method helps keep the number of holes in the wall to a minimum while ensuring accurate placement—ideal for hanging heavy frames above a bed or any focal furniture.
1. Visualize placement first
Before drilling or installing anchors, we propped the frames against the wall to get a feel for how they’d look with the chandelier and the bed’s headboard. This simple preview helped us adjust spacing and decide whether the chandelier would obscure the art.
2. Create a level guide
We connected the existing center hole—the one left from the previous display—with a piece of sewing thread taped to the wall to form a straight, level line. Then we checked that line with a level to confirm it was true. Using a visible guide line keeps your marks consistent and avoids repeated re-measuring.
3. Measure relative to the bed
To center the prints over the bed, measure the bed’s top edge or headboard center and use that as your reference. From the central reference point we measured outward to determine the approximate centers of each frame. In our case the rough calculation gave us room to place the frames so their centers were balanced relative to the bed posts and the room.
4. Mark both screw locations
Because the frames hang on two screws for stability, we marked two points for each frame a couple of inches apart horizontally from each frame’s center mark. We also wanted the frames to sit slightly lower than previously, so we adjusted the vertical position by a small amount before finalizing the marks. Taping a small level in place to guide these vertical adjustments made it easy to get the drop consistent on both sides.
5. Install anchors and hang
With marks in place, install properly rated wall anchors for your wall type and the weight of the frames, then insert screws and hang the frames. The dual-screw method prevents the frames from tilting or shifting and distributes the weight more safely along the wall.
After hanging, we tweaked the spacing slightly to bring the frames a bit closer together—about a 5-inch gap between them—and left roughly 8 inches clear on either side toward the bedposts. From a seated viewpoint the chandelier does overlap slightly, but the layered effect is pleasant rather than crowded.
We’re happy with how the prints now fill the space above the bed and tie the room together better than the previous focal piece. The room still needs more finishing touches, but rehanging these frames was a simple, cost-effective update that made a noticeable difference.
If you’re planning to hang heavy art above furniture, consider using a level guide, measuring from a central reference on the furniture, and using two anchored screws per frame. These steps reduce guesswork, minimize extra holes, and keep your artwork both secure and beautifully aligned.
P.S. We also like using string or sewing thread as a temporary straight edge when a long level isn’t handy—surprisingly effective for getting a consistent line across a wide wall.