Installing a Museum Wall Art Hanging System

three 2-meter tracks, satin anodized, (sold separately)
one set hangers, stainless steel cable, 10 pack, (sold separately)
one set classic hooks, 10 pack, (sold separately)
two silver track end caps, (sold separately)
cable light kit
cordless dimmer system

Tools:
Click links in the lists below to shop for these items on Lowe's website

hammer
cordless drill/screwdriver
electrician’s pliers
level
pencil
screwdrivers (Philips and flat-head)
tape measure
wire strippers

1. Measure the wall and decide on the hanging system you’d like. There are heavy duty steel-cable systems for large canvases and mirrors (45 lbs and up), and clear nylon cable used for lighter paintings and pictures (under 45 lbs). Make sure to leave the track one inch short of any obstructions on the side. You’ll need the space to slide the hanging cables in.

2. Purchase the pieces you’ll need. You can find gallery systems online (just search for "picture hanging system"), or in framing and art stores. You’ll need enough top tracks to run the length of the wall. Use a single cable and hook for light, balanced items that could normally hang from one nail. Use two cables and hooks for heavier items (for instance, use two 45-lb. rated hooks to hold a 90-lb. mirror). Multiple hooks can be used on a single cable to hang lighter pictures in a stacked formation.

4. Install the lighting. The kit comes with two cables, lights and a transformer or ballast. The cable hooks get attached to the walls on each end of the gallery wall (figure B). Make sure to use the correct anchor for the situation (screws for wood studs, wall anchors for drywall or concrete). The hooks should be about 18" from the gallery wall, to get the right angle for the most light with the least glare.

5. Wrap the cables on the hooks, and stretch them tight. Use the included turnbuckles to tighten.

6. Attach the transformer to the cables using the included clips. These run the low-voltage power from the transformer to the cables.

8. Slide in the cables to hang the artwork. They slide into the bottom of the track from the end (figure D). Slide them into place based on your needs.

9. Slide the hooks onto the cables. They slide up from the bottom of the cable, and lock into place at any height (figure E).

10. For a cleaner look, coil the excess cable up and tie it to the back of the hook. This will avoid excess wire hanging down from behind the picture.