Can I hang a small painting over an existing outlet that I do not use?

Of course. You can also hang a larger painting over it. It's not necessary to center the painting over the outlet. Just make sure you hang it from a stud.

If there is no stud where you want to put your nail, then cut a piece of wood that is 2 - 4 inches wide. The length will depend on the size of painting you're hanging. Attach the board to either 1 stud (if it's shorter than 16") or two studs (if it's at least 18") Then you can hang your painting anywhere along the board.

I would use scotch tape to keep the outlet toggle off, just so nothing is affected accidentally. Try to find a hollow-backed picture frame to accommodate the toggle switch smoothly. Best wishes 😇

Yes...i covered a smal fuse box with a picture..

Thanks..it is an old box from when house was built in 1941....it was upgraded and a big box is in the basement.

I have been doing it for years! Not to worry.