You've acquired an art poster, but it's been sitting untouched for a while. Or perhaps you've found a piece you love but hesitate to buy it "because I'm just renting." Such experiences seem to be surprisingly common.
The reluctance to put holes in walls isn't just a contractual issue. The feeling of "I don't want to mess it up" or "once it's decided, it can't be moved" makes the act of decorating itself feel heavy.
However, there are actually several ways to display art without damaging walls. And the tools aren't all that special.
Tools you should know, and how to use them
① Adhesive Hooks / Adhesive Strips
The most widely used items are removable adhesive strips and hooks. The 3M Command™ Hook series is designed to be removed without leaving marks by slowly stretching the tab, and there are even types specifically for wallpaper. Since the weight capacity varies by product, if you're hanging a framed poster, it's recommended to choose one after checking the combined weight of the artwork and frame. However, depending on the wallpaper material and its age, the surface may get damaged when removed, so it's safer to test it in an inconspicuous spot beforehand.
② Kneaded Eraser-Type Adhesive
For lightweight posters or small artworks, Kokuyo's "Hittsuki Mushi" (sticky bug) is an easy option. You simply knead the synthetic rubber adhesive with your fingers and stick it to the four corners to secure it. If the adhesive power decreases, you can restore it by kneading it again. It's not suitable for supporting heavy items, so it's best for very light paper items like unframed posters or small drawings. The trick to removing it is to peel it off slowly; pulling it off quickly may damage the artwork.
③ Magnetic Hanger
If you don't want to damage the poster itself, the Muji "Poster Magnetic Hanger" is another option. It works by sandwiching the paper between magnetic bars at the top and bottom, making it easy to swap out artwork and useful when you want a light, frameless look.
If you make a hole, have a repair tool ready
If you absolutely want to use pushpins or tacks, there are two approaches.
One is to choose a pushpin designed to leave minimal marks, such as +d's "Ninjapin". The pin has a V-shaped cross-section, making the hole less noticeable on textured wallpaper. Since the weight capacity varies by product, it's safe to check the weight of what you're hanging before use.
If you want to hang a slightly heavier framed piece, you can choose hooks for plasterboard. Toyo Koge's "Hyper Hook Kakemakuri" works by having two needles cross inside the wall for fixation, and the marks left after removal are relatively small. However, whether it can be used depends on the wall material, so always check the compatible wall surface and weight capacity before use.
The other approach is to repair the hole after you've made it. Kenchiku no Tomo's "Cross Hole Filler Super" is an easy tool that allows you to repair holes by simply pressing the nozzle against the hole and squeezing. It dries to a matte finish and comes in several colors like white, ivory, and beige, so you can choose one to match your wallpaper. It's useful for simple repairs before moving out, but if you're renting, its use might vary depending on your lease agreement and property management's discretion, so it's best to check beforehand if you're concerned.
The option of not fixing it to the wall
Decorating without attaching anything to the wall is also perfectly valid.
If you choose a larger size, try framing it and leaning it against the floor. Since it's not fixed to the wall, you can move it freely every time you redecorate. Choosing a slightly larger size ensures the artwork stands out in the space even when placed on the floor.
Image: Satomi Tanji's PROLOGUE
Smaller sizes look great placed on top of a cabinet or shelf. By arranging them with books, plants, and small items, the artwork becomes integrated into your everyday life, at eye level with your belongings. The beauty of this display method is that it brings the art closer to you than hanging it on the wall, naturally entering your daily field of vision.
Image: Kayo Aoyama's LEMON AND FIELD PEAS
Image: Yoko Inoue's 2025-14
When leaning artwork, it's a good idea to place an anti-slip mat under the frame or lightly secure the top of the frame to the wall with adhesive anti-toppling straps for safety. For smaller frames, you can also use an easel for frames to make them stand on their own.
Enjoy the "temporary" aspect
Decorating without making holes offers another advantage: because it's easy to try, it's also easy to change the display location or combinations.
Swap out artwork each season. Try it on a new wall every time you move. This flexibility encourages taking the first step to incorporating art into your life. You don't have to decide on the perfect placement from the start. Display it, look at it, and move it again. Through this process of repetition, your relationship with the artwork will gradually grow.
Displaying art without putting holes in the wall is not a compromise. It's one of the smart ways to keep art close at hand, adapting to changes in your lifestyle.
3M Command™ Hooks for Wallpaper
Kokuyo Hittsuki Mushi
Muji Poster Magnetic Hanger
+d Ninjapin
Kenchiku no Tomo Cross Hole Filler Super
All information is current as of June 2026.
