How to Hang Posters Without Damaging the Wall or Poster

Written by UPrinting - Updated on July 29, 2025

Share this article

Last updated on July 29th, 2025 at 08:12 pm

The best way to hang posters is to use adhesive and tools that will not
damage your walls or the poster. The best adhesives include double-sided
removable tape, removable putty, magic tape, and heavy-duty mounting
tape. One can also use slide binders or binder clips.

Use adhesive and tools that won’t leave permanent marks on the wall,
strip off paint, or even damage the poster. The best adhesives include
double-sided removable tape, removable putty, magic tape, and heavy-duty
mounting tape. One can also use slide binders or binder clips.

1.
Double-Sided Removable Tape
– There are double-sided tapes that are specifically designed for
putting up posters. This kind of tape has a gentle adhesive that
doesn’t mark or damage the poster surface.
2.
Heavy-Duty Mounting Tape
– Heavy-duty mounting tape is your go-to if your posters are framed or
made of heavy material. This can be a great alternative if you don’t
want to drill or use nails but still want to keep your posters secure
on the wall.
3. Magic Tape
– Magic tape is ideal for light-colored posters because it’s not as
visible as other types of tape. Even after long use, this tape easily
detaches and won’t leave any residue on the poster.
4.
Removable Putty
– Removable putty is just as gentle as double-sided tape. This is
recommended if your posters are made of rigid material. Too much putty
can create small bumps and crumpling at contact points, even with
cardstock paper. Don’t use putty on freshly or poorly painted
surfaces; it could peel off some paint.
5.
Slide Binders
– Thread binders through your posters’ edges and edges and thread a
string on the top edge. You could hang your posters from rods, screws,
nails, or wherever you need them. The bottom binder will give the
poster more weight so it can hang properly.
6.
Binder Clips
– Use multiple binder clips to hold posters and photo enlargements –
or smaller prints like postcards. You can hang them on lines, hooks,
or screws against or away from walls.

How to Hang Posters: A Step-by-Step Guide

how to hang posters 2

how to hang posters 3

Step 1: Mark the spot
– Before sticking anything, use a level or tape measure to make sure
your poster will be straight on the wall.

Step 2: Apply adhesive
– Apply adhesive: Place the poster face down on a clean surface. Add
dabs of adhesive on the corners, center, and midpoints on the back of
the poster.

Step 3: Stick it up
– Hold the poster by the top corners and position it on the marked
spot on the wall. Gently press the top corners firmly where the
adhesive is.

Step 4: Smooth it out
– Use your hands to carefully smooth down the poster from the center
outwards, pushing out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Make sure
to apply pressure on all corners and gently smooth out the edges so
the poster is wrinkle-free.

Step 5:
Secure the bottom
– Once the top and sides are smooth, press down firmly on the bottom
corners where the adhesive is applied.

Here are a few preparations to keep in mind as well:

1.
Keep the Poster Flat and Clean

If your poster isn’t framed or rolled, it’s a must to flatten it out
first. To do this, lay the poster on the floor and weigh it down at
the corners for a few hours using books or heavy items. This will
keep your poster from curling back and help make hanging your poster
easier. If your poster has a glossy finish or is printed on
photo-quality cardstock, ensure it’s free from oil, grime, dirt,
fingerprints, and smudges.

2. Prep Wall Surfaces

Any effort to hang your poster will be in vain if your wall surfaces
are not prepped enough for installation. If you use an adhesive,
your poster won’t stick if the surface is dirty or oily. Clean every
surface, get into every nook and cranny with a rag and use warm
water or a cleaning agent to ensure every space is squeaky clean.
Also, ensure the wall is completely dry before applying the poster.

With the right methods and tools, hanging posters without damaging
your walls is achievable. Keep in mind that the better the quality
of the poster, the better it will hold up to various mounting tools.

Looking to print custom posters? Click here →

share this post