Picture hangers are best for hanging… well, pictures. But is that all they’re really good for?

When it comes to wall decor, we usually think of artwork and framed pictures, maybe the occasional clock or mirror. But there’s something about decorating walls with objects that deviate from the usual showpieces, don’t you think?

The possibilities are endless when it comes to blank walls, so why not switch it up occasionally? If you need inspiration for unique alternatives you can hang on your wall using picture hooks and hangers, you’re in the right place.

Here are some tips before anything else:

When hanging alternative wall decor using picture hangers, make use of wall hooks, hangers, wire, picture hanger kits, and screws just as you would for pictures and framed art. Adhesives are also a good idea as they require less effort and are wall-friendly.

Depending on your hanging project, you might need other tools together with picture hangers, like a wall mount or plate hanger. Ensure that these tools are accounted for when you choose a picture hanger. Note your wall type and chosen picture hanger’s weight rating to ensure compatibility with your mounted items.

And now… let’s dive in!

Add some intrigue to your kitchen wall decor by taking a basket out of your storage and showcasing it in your space. Inject color by painting on it, or maintain a neutral-themed collection. You can even play with different shapes, sizes, and textures.

Complete your project with: Conventional hook, brass hook

Complete your project with: One-step hanger, ceiling hooks

Although not the usual display, headwear as wall decor is a practical option. It will convey your affinity for fashion and as a bonus, free up some space in your wardrobe while making it more easily accessible.

Complete your project with: One-step hanger, utility hook

Resin art offers some interesting ways to depict art, and as a result, it’s a great alternative to the usual framed picture. You can choose from resin paintings to flower arrangements and freshen up your dining room or bathroom wall decor.

Complete your project with: D-rings, cleats

There’s so much you can do with wood, and one of those is mount them as art pieces. Wood sculptures are intricate works that can easily elevate a room. The material may look humble, but the understated charm and simplicity it brings can be just the right touch.

Complete your project with: D-rings, bear claw screw

Perhaps mirrors aren’t the most unusual decor item, but vintage ornate mirrors are. If you’re looking for a classic, luxurious flair to add to your space, try mirror wall decor that makes it feel like you’re in a period setting. You can pick out one or two antiques to prop as your centerpieces in the living room.

Complete your project with: French cleat, brass hook 

It’s always a good idea to look to nature when creating a livable and pleasant space. Allocate more wall real estate to greenery and succulent plants. Hang them up with pots or even using frames and you’ll notice the air in the room feeling different.

Complete your project with: Ceiling grid hooks, utility hook

Perhaps you’ve got a phrase or quote you especially like, or maybe a personal motto you want to plaster on your wall or have in plain sight as a daily reminder. It would be exciting to turn it into custom lights on your wall, right? You could do exactly that and make it neon—right out of a cyberpunk Hong Kong street at night or an Instagram-famous cafe.

Complete your project with: Wall dog screws

If you happen to be athletic or an enthusiast of a particular sport, mounting your favorite sporting equipment is a great decor idea. Try stringing up racquets for your entryway decor or making a DIY basketball net for your bedroom wall decor. This will give your space a personal and laid-back feel to it.

Complete your project with: Brass hook, solid hanger 

A meaningful way to make a memory feel tangible would be to hang up a street sign that emotionally connects with you. It can feature the street of your favorite cafe or a spot that witnessed a major life event. Have it custom-made or hunt down the real thing to achieve an authentic vintage vibe.

Complete your project with: Sign standoff, sawtooth hanger

Show off any special earthenware or fine china tableware you might have. These are perfect for your kitchen wall decor or dining room wall decor. They’re on theme, are a nice conversation opener, and give the room personality.

Complete your project with: Plate hanger and hook

If you have a growing collection of baubles, then it’s their time to shine. Hanging up your assortment of jewelry will make it readily accessible, and it has the added benefit of giving your bedroom wall, closet, or vanity area a bit of pizzazz.

Complete your project with: Hardwall plastic hook, conventional hook, sawtooth hanger 

Embroidered artwork is another form of art that differentiates itself from the usual paintings and pictures. From needlework to suzani embroidery, there are many options for your living room wall—and you can try making your own embroidered wall hanging too.

Complete your project with: One-step hanger, brass hook

Letter boards are crafty, customizable, and help you bring out your creative side. There’s a practical use for it for daily reminders, and it can easily be your office wall’s statement piece. If not a letterboard, consider a whiteboard or a chalkboard.

Complete your project with: Strap hanger, sawtooth hanger

Do you love to travel and bring a few mementos back from your destinations? You may have built a little collection that you can proudly display as bedroom wall decor or living room decor. When you glance at your wall, you’ll be reminded of both exciting memories and future travels that await you.

Complete your project with: Bear claw screw, picture rail hook

Macramé is a textile craft that uses knotting techniques. It was especially popular back in the 1960s and ‘70s as boho home decor. It’s still a lovely style for decorating modern interiors today, though, so if you lean towards a soft boho aesthetic, you just might develop a liking for it.

Complete your project with: One-step hanger, brass hook, bear claw screw

Setting up string lights on your wall quickly makes the room look warmer without illuminating it too much. Hang them in your bedroom for a mellow, ethereal feel or as part of wall decor for the living room.

Complete your project with: Bear claw screw, one-step hanger 

Whether you’re a musician or an enthusiast, a musical instrument displayed on the wall is a great decor move. It turns your interests into a core part of your space. Be it the guitar, flute, ukulele, or accordion, moving your instruments to the wall saves you precious storage space while also sprucing up a room with style.

Complete your project with: Screws

Picture hooks, screws, and hangers work with a wide variety of wall-mounted decor, not just framed pictures and paintings. The same goes for your walls—they can handle a little creativity perfectly fine, with the help of the right wall hanger.

Which decor idea did you like best from the ones we shared? Find a favorite or two, and happy hanging!