How to Make a Picture Frame From Salvaged Tin

Salvaged tin is versatile and can be created into almost anything you can imagine. A headboard, clock and even picture frames can be crafted from these cool cast-offs. While making a picture frame from salvaged tin is challenging, the end product is stunning and a well deserved reward. Read on to learn how to make a picture frame from salvaged tin.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Salvaged tin ceiling tile
• Tin or aviation snips
• Large wooden dowel
• Leather gloves
• Double stick foam adhesive
• Glass
• Nails or screws

1. Purchase a salvaged tin ceiling tile. Purchase tiles from rummage sales, online auctions and antique stores.
2. Use chalk to mark a square in the center of the frame. Use a ruler to mark an "X" through the center of the square.
3. Use aviation snips or tin snips to cut along the X. Cut only the lines on the X, leaving the square intact.
4. Use a large wooden dowel to roll each triangle section of the X back to the outer edge of the frame. Wear leather work gloves to avoid getting cut by the tin.
5. Place strips of double backed foam adhesive on the inside border of the photo opening. Remove the adhesive backing, leaving the sticky side exposed.
6. Have a piece of glass cut to size or use glass from an old picture frame. Center the glass over the photo opening, and attach it to the frame with the sticky foam.
7. Secure the frame to the wall using the underside of the tile frame. Use at least two nails or screws to secure the frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint the tin before placing the glass in the photo opening.
• Aviation snips are easier to use than tin snips.
• Have glass cut at hardware stores.
• Use caution not to cut yourself on the sharp tin edges.