How to Insert Wall Anchors

When hanging paintings or decorations, use anchors if your walls are hollow and you can't secure to a stud. Wall anchors come in many sizes and types, depending on the type of fixture you are hanging. All wall anchors insert through a hole drilled into the wall. The only exceptions are wall anchors with screw threads on the outside--they simply screw into the wall.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Drill with bits

Instructions

1. Mark the the place you'll insert the wall anchor with a pencil.

2. Drill a hole in the wall with a bit of the same diameter as the wall anchor you're using. If you are using a toggle anchor, fold the wings together to determine the diameter.

3. Insert the wall anchor into the hole. For plastic anchors, insert until the rim of the anchor is flush against the wall. If using a toggle anchor, thread the toggle screw through your wall hanging and into the center of the toggle wings. Fold the wings and insert the toggle wings through the hole until they snap open on the inside of the wall. Pull on the threaded bolt and turn the bolt clockwise to tighten the toggle wings and secure the wall hanging.

4. Thread a screw into the plastic wall anchor until the screw head is slightly off the wall enough to hang your item on.

Tips & Warnings

• Toggle bolts are good for heavier fixtures, while plastic anchors or screw anchors work well for lighter items. Use several wall anchors if necessary, depending upon the weight of the item you are hanging.

References

• Curtain Rods & Curtain Poles: Installing Wall Anchors
• The Natural Handyman: You Can Hang Almost Anything With Wall Anchors