Eye level is the rule of thumb. First, consider how the room is used. Art in the foyer or a hallway should be displayed at eye level. In a dining room, the artwork should be hung slightly lower because it will primarily be viewed from the level of a seated position.

Grouped art of similar subject matter makes a unified arrangement, such as grouping architectural engravings on one wall and a botanical grouping on another wall.

Begin the grouping by placing the largest piece in the center and then add pieces to the right and left. Place smaller pieces of similar size on either side. Then work out from there in each direction.

The arrangement does not have to be symmetrical, but it should have a grid pattern.

When creating a large arrangement, it is best to have the outermost corners aligned so that the perimeter lines of the grouping form a box from top to bottom and right to left.

To eliminate the guesswork, first play with the arrangement on the floor. Measure the wall space and then mark out the same amount of space on the floor. This will help you determine the right arrangement and the proper spacing between frames.

For an interesting alternative, consider the using metal gallery rods to hang the art. They can be attached to molding or attached near the ceiling.

For added charm, use decorative brass hooks to hang small prints. To be sure the picture will hang securely, use two picture hooks, placing them in from each corner a distance of 1/3 of the width of the frame.