5 Renter-Friendly Ways to Hang Art Without Damaging Walls

One of the most common things I hear from art lovers is: "I'd love to hang more prints, but I'm renting." I get it — the fear of losing your bond over a few nail holes is real. But bare walls are a missed opportunity, and the good news is there are genuinely great ways to hang art without touching a drill.

Here are five methods I recommend, from the simplest to the most versatile.

1. Command Strips

The gold standard for damage-free hanging. Command Strips create a strong adhesive bond between your frame and the wall, and when it's time to move, they peel away cleanly without taking the paint with them.

Best for: Medium to large frames up to around 7kg
Tips: Always clean the wall surface first with isopropyl alcohol, press firmly for 30 seconds, and wait an hour before hanging. Follow the weight guidelines on the pack — they're there for a reason.

Available at Bunnings, Officeworks, and most hardware stores. In the US, look for them at Target, Walmart, or Home Depot.

2. Picture Ledges

Picture ledges are one of the most flexible and stylish options for renters. A single small screw (which most landlords allow) holds the ledge, and from there you can lean, layer, and rearrange prints as often as you like — no additional holes needed.

Best for: Creating a gallery wall look without committing to fixed positions
Tips: Mix frame sizes and lean prints at slightly different depths for a curated, gallery feel. A large statement print at the back with smaller pieces in front works beautifully.

→ Browse Steve Riley Art prints perfect for picture ledge displays

3. Heavy-Duty Velcro Strips

For larger, heavier frames that Command Strips can't handle, heavy-duty Velcro strips are the answer. They hold a surprising amount of weight and remove cleanly from most painted surfaces.

Best for: Large canvas prints and heavier frames
Tips: Use multiple strips spread across the frame for even weight distribution. Test on a small hidden area of your wall first if you're unsure about the paint finish.

Look for "heavy duty picture hanging strips" at Bunnings, Kmart, or online. In the US, 3M and Gorilla brand versions are widely available.

4. Over-the-Door Hangers

Often overlooked, over-the-door hooks are a clever zero-damage solution — especially for lightweight prints in hallways, bedrooms, or bathrooms where wall space is limited.

Best for: Lightweight frames, small prints, or temporary displays
Tips: Works best with frames that have a wire or D-ring on the back. A simple black hook keeps it looking intentional rather than improvised.

→ Shop lightweight art prints ideal for door hanging

5. Command Picture Hanging Kit

If you want one solution that covers everything, the Command Picture Hanging Kit includes multiple hook sizes and strips to hang up to 15 pieces. It's a great starter kit for anyone setting up a new rental and wanting to get art on the walls fast.

Best for: Hanging multiple pieces across different rooms
Tips: Plan your layout on the floor before you start sticking anything to the wall. Take a photo of your arrangement so you can replicate it precisely when hanging.

The Bottom Line

Renting doesn't mean settling for bare walls. With the right tools, you can hang art confidently, style your space beautifully, and hand back the keys without a second thought about your bond.

Every print in my collection is available as a canvas or framed print — lightweight, ready to hang, and designed to make an impact on any wall, rented or owned.

→ Explore the full Steve Riley Art collection

Have a question about sizing or framing for your space? Get in touch — I'm happy to help you find the right piece for your home.