No nails? No problem.
When choosing the right wall art, most of us reach for framed artwork, posters, and photographs. Tapestries still tend to be an afterthought—but these underrated wall hangings are actually extremely versatile. Not only can a tapestry look like virtually anything and come in any print, any fabric, and any color scheme, you can also use a tapestry in a ton of different ways. These must-have tips will show you how to hang a tapestry with style.
To start off with the obvious, you can hang a tapestry using nails or push pins. If it’s relatively light, just place a pin or nail in each top corner. If you want your tapestry to look less drapey, you can use several nails or pins across the top. You can even pin the bottom so it’s more taught. Keep in mind that this method leaves behind tiny holes, but a larger weave will hide them.
For renters who don’t want to put holes in their wall, try using adhesive hooks. This method is best for tapestries that come with grommets, though you can attach grommets on your own. If you don’t want to punch a hole in your tapestry, opt for hooked curtain clips or clip-on drapery rings. These should be available online or at your local craft store.
Velcro makes it easy to remove and replace your tapestry, but it’s also a great solution if you have a curved wall or want to avoid holes. Reach for a self-adhesive velcro tape. Put one side on the back of your tapestry. Put the other side on your wall. Make sure to use a level to get the line straight.
Your tapestry may need a little extra weight to hang flush. In this case, you can use a baseboard to weigh it down. Some tapestries come with a pocket to hold a rod, so just choose a baseboard that fits into the pocket. Otherwise, you can sew on your own pocket and choose any baseboard size. Just make sure it’s smaller than the width of the tapestry. When you’re done, screw the board into the wall for extra support (if you don’t feel comfortable using power tools, leave it to a local handyperson).
There are two ways to frame your tapestry. First, you can frame it like you would a painting. A tapestry behind glass has an elevated look—akin to something you’d see in a gallery. Second, you can stretch your tapestry over a wooden frame or canvas and staple it in place. This option lets the natural texture of the fabric shine. Regardless of the method, framing your tapestry turns it into a conventional piece of wall art that you can easily hang with a picture hanger.
There are a lot of creative room divider ideas, like using organizer cubes or a piece of furniture. A tapestry is another option, but with a boho twist. Simply hang your tapestry from the ceiling to create a makeshift wall. If you’re not sure how to best section-off the area, call an interior designer near you.
If your tapestry has a rod pocket in the back, you can easily hang it using a tapestry rod. If not, don’t fret. Either sew on your own pocket or use hooked curtain clips or clip-on curtain rings. That way, you won’t damage your tapestry by punching holes in the fabric. Another alternative is draping your tapestry over the rod. Use this method to create a faux headboard for your boho bedroom.
If you look up how to hang a tapestry from a ceiling, you’ll get a bunch of different methods. A flowing canopy over a bed is the most luxe—and it’s perfect for hiding ceiling tiles in a drop ceiling. Either tuck the corners of the tapestry into the ceiling tiles or use:
Nails
Pushpins
Adhesive hooks
Velcro (for light fabrics only)
Nails and push pins work best on drywall. Adhesive hooks or velcro work best on a drop ceiling. Make sure you select a tapestry in a fabric that can billow. Sturdier fabrics can visually weigh down the space—and physically struggle to stay put with a few pushpins.
If you have a large window with no window treatments, put your tapestry to good use. You can hang your tapestry on a curtain rod above a window or use pushpins to create a DIY window treatment. A light and airy tapestry is a great solution for privacy. Heavier tapestries can block out light like thick drapes, which may work well for sleepers who are sensitive to sunlight. Keep in mind that light will leak around the sides.
