How to Make a Heavy Plate Hanger

When I photographed the tile I decorated for my article on Home “Curing” Lazertran Waterslide Decals I just used a plate hanger I had on hand.

Later I decided I liked the tile enough to hang in my dining room, but I knew the lightweight hanger I used for the article photo was not up to the task of permanently supporting the 1 ½-pound tile.

Here’s how I made my own heavy duty plate hanger out of wire hangers.

Supplies
Wire coat hanger(s) (I used white to blend in with the plaque.)
Household wire cutters
Needle nose pliers
Ruler
18-gauge household or craft wire

Instructions
Tip: Use existing bends in the clothes hanger(s) where you can.

Use the pliers to untwist the hanger(s). Locate a section that will span the tile or plate. Cut one length about an inch longer than the tile or plate.

Use the first length as a pattern to cut the second length of wire.

With the needle nose pliers bend hooks on both ends of the wires to support the tile or plate. Position them over the item and make sure the fit is tight.

Choose a bent section of clothes hanger for the center piece which will hang over the nail in the wall. Use a ruler to make sure the angle is centered on the plaque. Cut the ends, leaving about ½ inch extra to hook under the side wires.

Bend the ends with the needle nose pliers and slip the hooks under the side wires. Use the ruler again to make sure the point is centered so the plaque will hang straight.

Wind the (more flexible) household wire around the side wires two or three times. Then cut and twist the ends together (twisting over and over). This wire has two purposes: to pull the side wires even tighter (notice how they bow in slightly); and to hold the center wire for hanging securely in place.

Test that the hanger is tight and secure before hanging on your wall.


Tags: plate hanger, wire hanger craft, DIY, hanging a heavy plaque, Lazertran art, curing Lazertran decals, waterslide decals, how-to make a plate hanger