How to securely tie picture wire to D-rings

Want to add picture wire to a frame like a pro? Whether you are adding wire to a new picture frame or replacing wire on an old frame, use these tips to make the job easy and the knot secure. We’ll walk you through the steps using a frame fitted with D-rings, a common picture hanging hardware.

Select the right wire 

When choosing picture wire, consider both the gauge and the construction.

Picture frame wire comes in different gauges (thickness). The higher the number the thicker the wire and the more weight it can hold. For example, #5 is a common choice for picture hanging and supports up to 30 lb (14 kg). Choose a wire that’s rated slightly above the weight of your picture for added security. (Need help weighing your decor? Check out this blog post for a quick tip.)

Also think about the wire’s construction. You’ll find available solid wire or braided wire (made of many small stainless steel strands). Both work, but we often use braided wire because it’s easier to grip, shape, and tie, much like string.

Tie the wire onto the first D-ring

Cut a piece of wire that’s several inches longer than the width of your frame. You’ll need the extra length for knotting and wrapping the ends.

Choose either D-ring to start. Feed the wire down through the D-ring, then pull it up and cross it over to form a loop. Thread the wire back up through the D-ring and pass it through the loop you just made. Pull both ends tight to lock the wire in place. For a professional finish, wrap the loose end around the main wire 8–10 times, keeping the coils snug and tidy. Trim off any excess.

Tie the wire onto the second D-Ring

With one side tied, stretch the wire across to the other D-ring. Before tying, add a little slack—this makes hanging easier. Too much slack will cause the top of the frame to lean away from the wall, so aim for a gentle curve.

Repeat the same threading and wrapping process to secure the wire.

Final checks

You want your picture to hang securely and evenly. Double-check that the wire is firmly attached at both D-rings. Lift the frame by the wire to make sure it balances well and the wire doesn’t extend above the top edge of the frame when hung.

That’s it! You are ready to hang and enjoy your artwork!

Want to see the knot in action? Watch our YouTube Video.

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-The UTR Team