The Photoline - an Easy Way to Display Your Photos

The Photoline is a simple but effective way of displaying your printed pictures. Photos can be easily added or removed just by pegging them onto string or wire that runs between 2 pieces of timber.

The whole thing can be attached to the wall using 3M picture hanging velcro strips so there's no damage to the wall.

Step 1: Materials, Tools & Planning

Cut 2 identical pieces of timber. Obviously you'll need to think about how many photos you want on each line and how many lines, leaving enough space between photos. This would be the best time to do any painting or finishing of the timber, although I just left mine raw.

Step 2: Drill Holes for the String

On the back of each piece, drill small holes 10mm from the edge but don't go all the way through - just half way through the thickness of the timber. Then, on the narrow edge alongside each hole drill again to meet the previously drilled hole. This will allow the string to enter neatly into the side and come out the back, making the attachment of the string to the sides invisible when mounted.

Line up the other piece of timber next to it and copy the positions of the holes. These holes should be a mirror image.

Step 3: Thread the String Through

Now you need to thread the string through the hole from the side to the back of each piece of timber on one side only. What worked for me was to curl up a plastic tie and feed it though first (the curl will help it find the connection between the 2 holes), then wrap up the end with the string and pull the whole lot through. Fasten the string with some staples along the back of the timber.

Step 4: Attach the Other Side and Mount

Feed through each piece of string on the other piece of timber. To ensure that all the lines are the same length, use a piece of timber as a spacer as you secure the other end of the line.

Use 2 sets of the 3M picture hangers on the back of each side piece to attach the whole thing to the wall. Ensure that your line is level and not too tight. The string I used sagged within a few days, but I don't think it looks that bad. Perhaps using picture wire would minimise this effect.