Stop Making Holes In Your Wall And Use A Paperclip Trick To Hang Decor
Ever stared at your blank walls, dreading the thought of drilling yet another hole that you’ll regret later? We’ve all been there, those tiny punctures that multiply over time, leaving your walls looking like Swiss cheese.
What if I told you that the humble paperclip sitting in your desk drawer could be the wall-saving hero you never knew you needed? This ingenious trick will transform how you hang lightweight decor without damaging your walls.
1. Command Strips And Paperclip Combo For Medium Art
Heavier artwork requires a sturdier approach but still no nails! Grab two large paperclips and two medium-sized command strips for this hack. Bend each paperclip into an L-shape, with one leg longer than the other. Attach the shorter legs to your wall using command strips, positioning them at the same height.
The longer portions of the paperclips will extend outward from the wall, creating perfect perches for your frame’s wire or hanging hardware. This method distributes weight more evenly than a single hook.
Remember to clean the wall surface before applying the command strips for maximum sticking power and damage-free removal later.
2. Paperclip Gallery Wall Alignment System
Creating a perfect gallery wall usually means multiple nail holes and frustrated attempts at alignment. Enter the paperclip template method! Unfold several paperclips into straight wires and bend them to match the exact spacing you want between frames.
Connect these paperclip wires to form a template grid. When you’re satisfied with the layout, mark where each hanging point should go with removable painter’s tape. Then use the paperclip hanging methods described above to mount each piece.
This approach lets you visualize your gallery wall and make adjustments before committing to any wall attachments. Your gallery wall will look professionally installed without a single hammer swing!
3. Rubber-Coated Paperclips For Delicate Surfaces
Renting a place with fragile wallpaper or textured walls? Rubber-coated paperclips are your secret ingredient! These specialized clips grip without scratching and work wonderfully with adhesive mounting putty. Form the coated paperclip into a question mark shape, with the rubber side facing the wall.
Press a small amount of mounting putty onto the rubber section, then gently attach it to your wall. The curved portion creates a perfect cradle for lightweight frames or decorative items.
The rubber coating prevents scratches while the putty allows for repositioning without residue. This method is particularly useful for temporary displays or seasonal decorations you’ll want to change frequently.
4. Interlocking Paperclip Chains For Hanging Mobiles
Ceiling decorations add dimension to rooms but often require drilling. Not anymore! Link several paperclips together to create a chain of your desired length. Attach one end to your mobile or hanging plant using the clip’s natural shape, and secure the other end to the ceiling with a removable adhesive hook.
The genius of this method is its adjustability. Need your decoration higher or lower? Simply add or remove paperclips from your chain. The linked structure also creates a subtle decorative element that catches light beautifully.
For heavier items, use larger paperclips or double up your chains for extra support. This approach works wonderfully for lightweight mobiles, paper lanterns, and small air plants.
5. Paperclip Wall Hooks For Lightweight Frames
Ordinary paperclips transform into mighty wall hooks with just a few bends! Take a jumbo paperclip and straighten one end while leaving the other end in its original shape. The straight portion slides behind your picture frame’s hanging wire, while the curved section hooks over a small adhesive strip on your wall.
The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity and reversibility. When you’re ready for a change, simply remove the adhesive strip following the manufacturer’s instructions, no wall repair needed! This technique works best for lightweight frames under three pounds.
