Let’s pick up on the Command Strip series I started a long time ago for a long awaited sequel.  I started off with the question of command strips and textured walls.  Now let’s take on a different question.  Let’s discuss whether or not you should use command strips to hang your art.

This seems like a natural next step in the command strips questions.  So, here we go.  Should you use command strips to hang your fine art on the wall?

Should I Use Command Strips for Art?

Personally, I wouldn’t do so.  Most command strips are specifically designed for certain light-weight temporary items such as stockings.  They’re not designed for long-term use.  I’ve seen some versions which will carry a heavier weight than others will, however, you shouldn’t trust them.  I’ve seen wall hangings held up with command strips collapse.

If you use regular hanging methods (such as nails) to hang your artwork, then you’re utilizing the wall or even the studs to help carry the weight.  Command strips don’t work that way.  They utilize stickum to adhere to the wall.  However, the hooks themselves bear all the weight of the hanging item.  There’s no wall assist at all.  If the command strip hook or adhesive won’t hold, then the hook (if present) falls and so does whatever is hanging from it.  Then you risk damage to the piece of wall art.  Multiple strips, however, may reduce the risk of the strips detaching.

The official Command Strip website includes directions and even recommended surfaces to adhere wall art to.  It also includes surfaces which you should avoid using command strips on.

When You Might Consider Using Command Strips for Art

Most walls you’ll hang art on will easily handle the load.  However, there are times and circumstances where you might find you have little other choice than to use command strips to hang your art.  The Command Strip website lists several which I’ll include here.

• Wood
• Cider Block
• Concrete
• Tile

• Metal
• Glass
• Laminate
• Plastics (think acrylic and PVC)

Another rarer situation you might encounter involves your rental contract.  Perhaps you sign a lease which forbids you from punching holes in the walls, no matter how small.  I’ve run into situations like this.  Then you might consider using command strips to hang art on the wall.  You won’t have many other choices.  Just make sure you use enough strips to bear the load you want to hang.  Otherwise, you might find your wall art crashing down and breaking.  Cleaning up broken glass isn’t fun.

Conclusion

In conclusion, to answer the question “Should I use command strips to hang my art?”, the answer is a bit complicated.  You absolutely can use them.  However, I wouldn’t consider them trustworthy.  They won’t work on certain surfaces.  However, they may be your only option in certain circumstances.  Use command strips to hang your wall art with caution.