How to Frame with Rope

Use tougher, sturdier ropes for framing heavy artwork.

Rope frames can give pieces of art and photographs a rustic or organic look. They are also more cost-efficient than metal or wooden frames, and can be constructed using household supplies. Rope comes in a variety of styles and sizes, giving you many choices when looking for rope that fits the item you want to frame.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Hot glue gun
• Fabric dye

Instructions

1. Lay the rope around the item you wish to frame, and cut the length of rope that is needed for the frame. It is more effective to turn one long continuous piece of rope into a frame, rather than using several individual pieces.

2. Place the rope around the object to be framed. Trim any excess rope.

3. Secure the rope around the object by using a hot glue gun. Apply the hot glue to the inside of the rope and place the rope against the item that is being framed. For example, if you are framing a canvas painting, place the rope against the side of the canvas so that the glue is touching the canvas.

4. Wait 24 hours for the glue to dry before hanging the framed item.

Tips & Warnings

• Dye natural rope a color with fabric dye. Follow the instructions on the package of dye to achieve the color you want.

• To make a hanging rope frame, create a loop out of rope and glue it to the top of the frame, similar to a handle. Drape the handle over a nail so the rope frame dangles below.

• If you are concerned about getting glue on the front of the art piece – and thereby damaging it – apply the glue to the side of the piece with a paintbrush.

Resources

• The Nate Show; How to Make a Rope Mirror; Nate Berkus; 2010