Hanging a heavy tray

Question

I have a beautiful rather heavy wooden tray I would like to hang on the wall but was wondering if there is a way to hang it without putting nail holes in the wood. I would like the hanging mechanism to be invisible if possible. Any suggestions welcome. Thanks!!!

Swan Road Designs · Answer

The first thing that came to my mind is to run some heavy-duty monofilament fishing line through the upper, in this picture, part of each handle, bring it around the back and knot it securely, then hang as you would a picture frame. If the tray is as heavy as you say, I would recommend that wall anchors be used to secure the hook/screw that the line would be put on.

Connie · Answer

That sounds like a great suggestion. Thank you for taking the time to answer. I think I will give it a try!

Connie · Answer

Yes I was thinking about that and also wondered whether the line might cut into the wood eventually. I'm also am starting to consider decorative hooks cupping through handles as I don't mind putting holes in the walls. I just don't want to take any attention away from the tray so the fishing line might be a better option.

Swan Road Designs · Answer

No, the line won't cut into the wood,. That would only be a concern if the tray moved regularly. Since it will be stationary on the wall, cutting won't be an issue. Using hooks is a bit riskier, for the tray, that is.

Connie · Answer

I think you're right I think I will go with the fishing line idea. Thanks for helping me think this through! Can wait to get this on the wall!

Kristi O'Day Bruner · Answer

I hang alot of things on the wall, (including my great grandparent's bamboo fishing rods) but I believe I'd look at putting this in an easel on display. I could see this on a nightstand, fireplace, above kitchen cabinets or in a display case in an easel.  You may be able to use a fancy plate rack. I picked up a metal plate rack (for one plate) that could hold a picture or other item as well. Good luck!

Marcy, Professional Designer, Artist and Arts and Crafts Instructor · Answer

Make sure you post it when your done.

KathrynElizabeth Etier · Answer

If it's really heavy, I'd go with a French cleat.

Justme · Answer

I first thought of fishing line covered by a pretty, thick ribbon. Then I thought of hanging a small piece of Plate shelf molding. Then I thought of making 2 corner brackets to cup the bottom corners. I see your dilemma. It's a Beautiful tray. I'm sure you'll find the perfect solution

Connie · Answer

Wow! I just joined this forum recently and glad I did! What a wonderful group of people here! Now I have other ideas floating through my brain. My first thought was foe the master bath because we, by accident, got a scroll theme going but now I'm rethinking because of size and no many people really would get to see it. Does anyone know anything about this type of tray? I got it at an antique fair if memory serves but no information aboyt its background. Thanks again for everyone's input!

Sis · Answer

Hobby Lobby has round hangers with the hook already attached. All you do is moisten the back of the hanger, let it get tacky and attach it to your tray. They come in different sizes for different weight projects. I have used one on my Grandmothers 75 year old plate for 5 years and it is still holding tight.

Barb Burnham · Answer

I personally  prefer double satin ribbon. Tie around handle on each side in square knot bringing the two ends together tie a gorgeous bow, then double tie it.  Hang from any kind of hanger pretty enough to be seen. An antique door knob would really set the whole thing off. Totally removable; no damage, still usable; accent yor decor with the ribbon color you coose, and I would go at least 1' wide. Win-win.

Dawn Dayringer · Answer

I agree with Sis.  I use Dischangers - also available at The Container Store - to hang trays, dishes, and anything else I can't use a picture hanger on.  Try them - you'll fall in love.

Carol · Answer

I would try hanging lamp/chandelier chain (It comes in different finishes) attached with S hooks (spray painted to match chain) attached to the tray handles suspended from a decorative knob screwed into the wall.  You can get double ended screws to attach the knob to the wall.  You can also cover the chain with a cloth sleeve.

Joan · Answer

Have you considered a large decorative plate hanger? I don't know if they are available in a size large enough for your tray (which is beautiful!). They are available at craft stores. Springs crisscross in the back and attach at four points on the object. There is a hanger in the back requiring only one hole in your wall.

Lindcurt · Answer

I bought a shelf at hobby lobby that is quite sturdy. It is only 4'deep and looks like crown molding. I have a tray and a few other doo dads on it .

Swan Road Designs · Answer

Not sure how the ground rocks and rolls at the OP's home, so I don't think I would, personally, use a shelf. It wouldn't take much quaking for the tray to tumble off a shelf. Also, she hasn't indicated where, exactly, she wants to display the tray. For safety's sake, it should be put away from over a bed or near areas where someone sits regularly.

9530106 · Answer

We have started using 'Command Strips' for framed photos. They come in different sizes for different weights/frame size. They really work wonderful!! They have come out with all sorts of hanging solutions. We have not had any problem with using any of them, and they are pretty versatile.

Connie · Answer

Yeah I have to be careful abou how and where I hang it for safety's sake. We do get the occasional quake!

9530106 · Answer

We have used them on walls that are constantly being shaken from the garage door, etc. and have used their hooks outside. These things have been up for several years with no problem. With the photo hangers, you can always put on a few extra if you are worried. They do not damage any surface.I can't say enough good about them!

Ltt834476 · Answer

I agree with Barb Burnham, except tie the ribbon all across the back so you don't see any of the ribbon when you hang it as you wanted.

Connie · Answer

I have checked into the dischangers and contacted them about maximum weight. I am also thinking of a faux decorative cord. I'm thinking cord rather than ribbon (although I absolutely love that look) because the bathroom is fairly modern looking. Just love this forum!

Swan Road Designs · Answer

After reading through this whole thread, one thing that concerns me is that, if the tray is displayed in the bathroom, the fluctuations in temperature and humidity might affect the wood and the finish. Wood has an uncanny way of responding, especially to changes in moisture around it.

Another thing is is that if you use any decorative cording, etc., you could still use the invisible fishing line to hang it securely, then use the decorative cording/ribbon to give the appearance of it hanging the tray. This way you'd get safe, secure display with decorative elements as a plus.

Connie · Answer

Yeah I thought about the steam vs the wood also. Maybe I will just see if it will work out elsewhere but at least I have all these great ideas as to how to hang it. I think you're right about the fishing line as additional security.

Hanging a heavy tray

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Hanging a heavy tray

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