#4 wire is a type of braided, professional-grade hanging wire specifically designed for use in picture framing. It is among the most commonly used sizes because it balances strength, flexibility, and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for hanging the majority of framed artwork, photographs, and decorative pieces. The "#4" designation refers to the wire's thickness and weight capacity within the standardized sizing system for picture-hanging wire.

Construction and Material

Most #4 wire is constructed from strands of stainless steel or galvanized steel twisted together in a braided pattern. This braiding technique distributes weight more evenly across the wire, improves strength, and makes the wire more pliable than single-strand alternatives. The flexibility of braided wire allows framers to loop and knot it easily while still providing strong support.

Some manufacturers coat the braided steel with a thin layer of plastic or nylon. This protective coating prevents the wire from fraying, protects the framer's hands during installation, and reduces wear against the D-rings or screw eyes on the frame.

Weight Capacity

#4 braided picture-hanging wire typically has a working load limit of up to about 25-30 pounds (11-14 kg) when doubled over and attached securely. This capacity makes it suitable for most medium-sized frames, including:

Standard photographs with matting and glazing
Posters with lightweight frames
Medium-sized art prints
Diplomas and certificates in wooden or metal frames

For heavier pieces-such as large mirrors, oversized artwork, or shadowboxes-a thicker wire (such as #6, #8, or higher) may be required.

Advantages of Using #4 Wire

Versatility: Strong enough for most everyday framing needs while still flexible and easy to work with.
Safety: Less prone to breaking than single-strand wire.
Professional Finish: Creates a neat, secure hanging system that won't damage walls or frames.
Durability: Stainless or galvanized steel resists rust and corrosion over time.

How to Use #4 Wire Correctly

Choose Compatible Hardware: Attach D-rings or screw eyes to the frame sides about one-third of the way down from the top.
Cut the Wire: Leave enough length to extend several inches beyond both D-rings for proper twisting.
Thread and Loop: Run the wire through one D-ring, loop it back on itself, and twist tightly for several turns.
Stretch Across: Pull the wire across to the opposite D-ring, allowing a small amount of slack so the frame can hang flush against the wall.
Secure: Loop and twist the second end in the same manner.
Check Capacity: Always make sure the combined weight of the frame and glazing does not exceed the safe working load of the wire.

Alternatives to #4 Wire

Lighter Wire (e.g., #2): Suitable for small, lightweight frames.
Heavier Wire (e.g., #6, #8, #10): Required for large, heavy pieces or frames with thick glazing.
Coated Wire: Prevents scratches and fraying.
Single-Strand Wire: Provides strength but is less flexible and harder to twist neatly.

Best Practices

Always use wire that is rated at least double the weight of the framed piece for safety.
Avoid hanging extremely heavy artwork with wire alone; consider a cleat system or multiple hangers.
Inspect the wire periodically, especially in humid or coastal environments, where corrosion can occur more quickly.

#4 Wire

#4 Wire (Braided Picture-Frame Grade Wire)

Overview