DIY Hang a Guitar on the Wall Like a Rockstar: Pro Advice

If you love guitars, you probably want to display your instrument proudly and keep it within easy reach. My dad hangs his guitars on the wall, as it saves floor space, protects his guitars from damage (aka his dogs), and adds some personalized home decor to his space. It’s the perfect way to decorate a music fan’s man cave or a musician’s space!

But how do you hang a guitar on the wall properly, without damaging the wall, or harming the guitar? We’ll show you some DIY methods and tips to hang your guitar on the wall safely and securely.

What You’ll Need For DIY Hanging Guitars on Walls

  1. Guitar Wall Hanger/Mount: Depending on your preference, you can choose between a vertical hanger that holds the guitar by the headstock or a horizontal mount that holds the guitar by its body.
  2. Stud Finder: To locate the studs in the wall, ensuring a secure hold for the weight of the guitar.
  3. Drill: For drilling holes into the studs.
  4. Screwdrivers: Depending on the screws that come with your guitar hanger, you may need either a flat-head or a Phillips-head screwdriver.
  5. Screws & Anchors: Some guitar hangers might come with screws. If not, ensure you purchase screws that are long enough to secure into the studs. Wall anchors might be required if you’re mounting to drywall and not directly into a stud.
  6. Level: To ensure the hanger is straight.
  7. Pencil: For marking drill points once you’ve located the studs and decided on the placement of the hanger.
  8. Soft Padding or Felt (Optional): If the hanger doesn’t come with any, this can be added to prevent scratches on the guitar.
  9. Rubber or Silicone Bands (Optional): For added security, these can be wrapped around the guitar’s neck to prevent accidental knocks from dislodging it.
  10. Tape Measure: To ensure the correct spacing between multiple guitars or to center a single guitar on the wall.
  11. Safety Gear: Including safety goggles to protect your eyes from any debris when drilling.

Types of Guitar Wall Hangers

two guitars hanging on a wall

There are different types of guitar wall hangers you can use to hang your guitar or banjo on the wall. Some of the most common ones are:

Basic wall hangers

These are simple metal hooks that attach to the wall with screws or nails and hold your guitar by the headstock. They are cheap, easy to install, and work well with most types of guitars. However, some basic wall hangers may not fit guitars with wide necks, such as classical guitars, or guitars with unusual headstock shapes, such as Telecasters. They may also cause damage to the wall or the guitar if not installed properly.

Locking wall hangers

These are similar to basic wall hangers, but they have a mechanism that locks the guitar in place once it is hung. This prevents the guitar from falling off or getting knocked out accidentally. They are more secure and stable than basic wall hangers, and they can accommodate a wider range of guitar sizes and shapes. They are also more expensive and may require more drilling or hardware to install.

According to what I’ve read from others on Reddit, a popular and trusted brand to use is Hercules, which I found on Amazon.

Horizontal wall mounts

These are brackets that attach to the wall and support your guitar horizontally by the body. They are ideal for displaying guitars with unique designs or features, such as acoustic guitars with soundholes or electric guitars with knobs and switches. They also allow you to adjust the angle and position of your guitar to suit your preference. However, they take up more wall space than vertical hangers, and they may not be suitable for guitars with delicate finishes or electronics.

Ceiling mounts

These are rods that attach to the ceiling and hang down with hooks or clamps that hold your guitar by the headstock or body. They are perfect for saving wall space or creating a dramatic effect in your room. They also keep your guitar away from children or pets that may damage it. However, they require more skill and tools to install, and they may not be feasible for low ceilings or rented spaces.

Additional Considerations

  • Guitar’s Weight: An important thing to consider is the weight of the guitar. Some hangers might not be designed to hold very heavy guitars.
  • Wall Material: The type of wall (drywall, brick, wood, etc.) may determine the type of hardware or hanging method you should use.
  • Padding: Ensure that the hangers have some form of soft padding to prevent scratching or damage to the guitar. You can wrap them in felt if you need to. 
  • Humidity: Wood instruments can warp or become damaged in environments with high or fluctuating humidity levels (I see you Florida!). It might also be worth mentioning the use of hygrometers to monitor room humidity.

DIY Guitar Wall Hanger: Without Drilling Holes in Your Wall

lots of guitars hanging on one wall using a wood beams and tension brackets and no drilling
Image credit: Killer Guitar Rigs

For those looking to hang their guitars without the fuss of drilling, check out what Killer Guitar Rigs found on Amazon. There are these cheap nifty 2 x 4 brackets designed to hold a 2 x 4 beam upright as a freestanding stud. They secure firmly between the floor and ceiling, thanks to an adjustable thumbwheel on the ceiling end. Plus, their non-slip pads ensure no damage to either surface.

Once set, you can affix a guitar wall hanger just as you would on a standard wall stud. Impressively, each makeshift stud can support up to 44 lbs—equivalent to about three guitars or perhaps two with some buffer for frequent handling. With a dash of creativity, you could design a captivating wall display of guitars without any drilling, screws, or sticky residues. An added advantage? The stand-alone structure gives a reassuring feeling of your prized instrument’s secure hanging. 

Tips for Hanging a Guitar on the Wall

Regardless of which method you choose to hang your guitar on the wall, there are some tips you should follow to ensure a successful result:

Choose a suitable location

You should choose a location that is convenient for you to access your guitar, but also safe from direct sunlight, heat sources, humidity, dust, or traffic. You should also avoid hanging your guitar near speakers or other devices that may cause vibrations or interference.

Measure carefully

You should measure the dimensions of your guitar and the space available on your wall before installing your guitar hanger. You should also mark the spots where you want to place your screws or adhesives with a pencil or tape. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure proper alignment.

Use proper tools

You should use proper tools for installing your guitar hanger, such as a drill, a level, a screwdriver, a hammer, or a stud finder. You should also wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from injuries. You should also follow the instructions that come with your guitar hanger or consult a professional if you are unsure.

Check the stability

You should check the stability of your guitar hanger before hanging your guitar on it. You should test the strength of the screws, adhesives, or rods by pulling or pushing them gently. You should also check the fit of the hooks, clamps, or brackets by placing your guitar on them briefly. If anything feels loose or wobbly, you should tighten it or adjust it accordingly.

Maintain your guitar

You should maintain your guitar regularly even if you hang it on the wall. You should dust it off, tune it, and check for any signs of damage or wear. You should also store it in a case or a bag if you are not going to use it for a long time or if you live in a harsh environment.

Benefits of Hanging a Guitar on the Wall

close up shot of guitar hanging on the wall, diy hang guitar on wall

Hanging a guitar on the wall has many benefits, such as:

  • Saving space: Hanging a guitar on the wall frees up floor space and makes your room look more spacious and organized. It also prevents your guitar from getting in the way or cluttering your room.
  • Protecting your guitar: Hanging a guitar on the wall protects your guitar from accidental bumps, scratches, spills, or falls. It also keeps your guitar away from pets, children, or pests that may damage it.
  • Displaying your guitar: Hanging a guitar on the wall displays your guitar as a piece of art and showcases your personality and style. It also makes your room look more attractive and inviting.
  • Inspiring you to play: Hanging a guitar on the wall inspires you to play more often and improve your skills. It also makes your guitar more accessible and convenient for you to grab and play whenever you feel like it.

Conclusion: DIY Hang Guitar on Wall

Hanging a guitar on the wall is a great DIY project that can enhance your room by adding personalized home decor. It’s a perfect decoration for a musician or a music fan’s man cave! Whether you choose to drill holes or use alternatives, there are many options and tips to help you hang your guitar on the wall safely and securely. By following this guide, you can enjoy the benefits of hanging a guitar on the wall and have fun playing your instrument.

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