Things You'll Need:
- Matting
- Table saw
- 1/2-inch straight or rabbet router
- 1/4-inch cove or classic bit
- Miter saw
- Miter trimming tool
- Web or frame clamp
- Epoxy
- Oil finish or wax
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Step 1
Mat your picture so you know how large your project is. You can cut the matting yourself or purchase it from a local hobby store. Make sure the color of your mat goes well with your picture.
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Step 2
Select the stock, being careful to make sure the wood matches or blends with your mat and your picture. It should be approximately 3/4 inch thick. You can personalize this by using a favorite wood or color.
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Step 3
Use a table saw to cut the wood to a minimum of 1 1/2 inches wide.
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Step 4
Recess cut the backside of the lengths for your matting. It should be no deeper than 1/2 inch and remain at least 1/3 of the original thickness. For best results use a 1/2 inch router bit.
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Step 5
Choose your molding style but make sure you leave at least 1/8 inch of thickness so it still has the strength to hold the picture in. A 1/4-inch bit works best for this. Finish the edges of the frame for a personalized touch and unique display.
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Step 6
Cut the miters with a miter saw or table saw using the following formula for the length of the sides: [Length of Mat] - [width of rabbet]x2 + [width of frame] x 2. Test the fit and trim where necessary.
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Step 7
Glue together with epoxy and a clamp and let it set. Oil or wax as a finish if desired.
