Making DIY Picture Frames

What You’ll Need

Materials:

• Wood (pine, oak, or any type you like)
• Wood glue
• Frame backing (cardboard or thin plywood)
• Glass or acrylic sheet (for covering the picture)
• Sandpaper
• Paint, stain, or varnish (optional)
• Hanging hardware (sawtooth hanger or D-rings)

Tools:

• Miter saw or miter box with a hand saw
• Measuring tape
• Clamps
• Nail gun or small nails and hammer
• Wood filler (optional, for imperfections)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and Cut the Wood

• Measure your photo or artwork to determine the frame size. Add about 1/4 inch to each side to allow for the picture and backing to fit snugly.
• Use a miter saw or miter box to cut the wood pieces at 45-degree angles so they fit together like a picture frame. You’ll need two pieces for the length and two for the width.

2. Prepare the Wood Pieces

• Sand all pieces to remove splinters and ensure smooth edges.
• If you want, apply paint, stain, or varnish at this stage and let it dry completely.

3. Assemble the Frame

• Apply wood glue to the mitered edges of the pieces.
• Join the corners together to form a rectangle or square.
• Clamp the pieces in place and let the glue dry.
• For extra strength, use a nail gun or hammer to add small nails to the corners.

4. Add a Groove for the Picture

• Use a router or chisel to create a groove (called a rabbet) along the inner edge of the frame where the glass, picture, and backing will sit.
• If you don’t have a router, you can glue thin strips of wood to create a ledge.

5. Insert the Glass or Acrylic Sheet

• Cut the glass or acrylic to fit inside the frame. Be careful while handling glass!
• Place it into the groove or ledge inside the frame.

6. Place the Picture and Backing

• Position your picture or artwork on top of the glass or acrylic.
• Add a piece of cardboard or thin plywood as backing.
• Use small nails, brads, or turn buttons to secure the backing in place.

7. Attach Hanging Hardware

• Add sawtooth hangers, D-rings, or a wire to the back of the frame for hanging.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Wood: Softer woods like pine are easier to work with but may dent more easily. Hardwoods like oak offer durability but require more effort to cut.
• Use a Square: Ensure your frame corners are perfectly aligned by using a square tool during assembly.
• Experiment with Styles: Add decorative molding, engravings, or embellishments to make your frame unique.

Making DIY Picture Frames, with a bit of creativity and effort, you can make beautiful picture frames that enhance your home decor or serve as great gifts for anyone!