There are a few things in the world that can't be improved; they got it right the first time. In the small and inexpensive world of picture hangers, you can buy one of the most perfect products of the Industrial Revolution: the "Floreat" hanger. Yes, you just drive a nail into the wall, but look again. The brass hanger cradles the nail, keeping it at the proper angle as you gently tap it into place.

The nail itself is thin, extremely sharp, made of tempered steel. These high-quality nails are a must if you have real lath-and-plaster walls; they'll do the least possible damage. The head of the nail is brass, to cushion the hammer taps, with corrugated sides so that it can be extracted with just your finger and thumb - twist and out. They come in one nail, two nail, and three nail models, for various weights. Everything else is just a cheap imitation."