How to Hammer a Nail

When hammering a nail to a wall, you need to consider the weight and thickness of the object you are hanging. Take your time. Hold the nail and hammer correctly so that you don't damage yourself or the wall. Here's are a few pointers on how to do this properly.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hammer
• Nails

1. Find a stud in the wall. This is important if you are hanging a heavier object such as a large picture, a mirror or a heavy tapestry. Hanging these objects from any place other than a stud could result in damaging both the wall and the object you wish to hang if it isn't properly secured and falls.

2. Select the nail you will hammer. To do this, inspect the material you wish to hammer the nail into. If you are nailing an object to a wall, a good general rule is to pick a nail that is three times as long as the object you are nailing to the wall. This will ensure that the object is supported and will not come loose.

3. Pick a hammer that is appropriate for the job. If you are performing a simple task, you may want to use a tack hammer or a claw hammer.

4. Hold the nail between your pointer finger and thumb at a 90-degree angle to the surface you are nailing into.

5. Hold the hammer with your dominant hand so that you will have optimal accuracy. Keep your wrist straight, using your forearm to drive the nail into the material.

6. Drive the nail to your desired depth in the material.

Tips & Warnings

• It is best to drive your nail into the center of the wall stud. Generally, studs are placed 16 inches apart, but this is not always the case. Visit your local hardware store to inquire about purchasing a stud finder.
• Do not use a hammer that is to big for the job. If you were to miss the nail's head, you could damage the surface of the wall.
• Pay attention and take your time when driving nails into the wall. People who miss the nail and damage their hand, fingers or wall often miss because they weren't giving the task the attention it requires.