Adhesive picture hooks are the best way to prevent damage when hanging a picture but pre drilling the hole will usually prevent cracks and chips from forming as well.
Hanging pictures on lath plaster wall.
Screws and screws with masonry anchors for heavy items are your best choice for hanging things on plaster walls without picture rail.
The ideal solution for hanging pictures on plaster is to use a picture hanging system like the all in one click rail cable hanging kit.
With proper technique hanging pictures on a lath and plaster wall isn t a problem.
This system works by simply installing a rail along the wall and pictures then hang from cables attached to the rail and are fastened with hooks.
Plaster walls have a tendency to crack and crumble if you attempt to hammer a nail directly into the wall.