A hanging system can be permanently positioned on ceiling or a wall, however can still be adjusted at anytime to accommodate multiple artworks of multiple sizes. 

Hanging systems vary a lot. This article will give you a basic overview of the common hanging system components to help you decide what you may need for your application.

Picture hanging systems, can be installed by yourself, alternatively there are many companies who will both provide you with hanging system components and install it for you.

The common hanging system components are:

• The Rail
• The Cable
• The Hook

Picture Hanging Rails:
The picture hanging rail is the length of steel or alloy that is screwed to the wall or the ceiling. they come in various shapes, such as a clip channel, a 'p' channel or a 'u' channel. Clip channels allow you to randomly clip and slide a cable anywhere allow the rail. The P channel allow you to slide across multiple cables in order, inserting them at the end of the rail, the 'P' channel is commonly used for wall applications. The 'C' Channel, is the same as a P channel however it is commonly mounted on the ceiling.

If you are building or renovating, it is worth considering where you may what to hang artwork, because some hanging rails can be installed in such a way that they are recessed into plaster board, making the rail near invisible, it gives a marvelous clean professional look.

Picture Hanging Cables:
The picture hanging cable connects via a slider or a clip to the rail on one end and has an adjustable hook on the other end. Cables are either woven stainless steel, or clear nylon. They can be adjusted horizontally by sliding them across the rail, or vertically by adjusting the position of the hook.

Picture Hanging Hooks:
The picture hanging hook is stainless steel. They come in a wide variety, differing often by manufacturers design and their intended use or weight. Hooks range from: Spring Hooks, Security Lock Hooks, Self Locking Zipper Hooks.

WARNING: It is important to consider the weight of your artwork when installing a hanging system, the weight effects the rail, the cable and hook choice. 

To purchase hanging system components, visit a Framing Supply Store, or see, Display System Suppliers, or Hanging System Suppliers