How to Make Bamboo Picture Frames

Many people love having their most valued pictures on display in their home. Create this nature-inspired frame for your favorite pictures using just a few simple tools and steps. It can be an arts-and-crafts project for the whole family, or just something you do to create a personalized touch in your household.

Things You'll Need

• Handsaw Marker Clear sheet of Acrylic glass or plastic Measuring tape Hot glue gun Thick construction paper or cardboard Tape Bamboo pieces, whatever size you desire Strong string or twine, if desired Gloves Protective eyewear

Instructions

1. 

   Decide what size picture frame you want to end up with. Use the measuring tape on the bamboo for the correct sizing, and use the saw to cut the sticks of bamboo to the desired length. Cut them at an angle on the edges to give them a more fun appearance. You can use just four large intercrossing pieces of bamboo, or you can start with larger pieces on the outside and work your way in with smaller pieces. The design is up to you.

2. Draw the size of the picture frame you want onto the clear sheet of plastic or Acrylic glass. Put it where the picture will go; include the edges of the frame (usually a couple inches larger than the picture).

3. Apply a liberal amount of glue from the hot glue gun to the sheet in the entire area outside of where the picture is going to go. Lay down the bamboo sticks in the desired pattern. Allow it to dry.

4. Trim a piece of cardboard, or very sturdy construction paper, to put on the back part of the glass that will cover the glue and bamboo sticks. The center will be cut out. This is where the picture will go. Think of it as the matting in a picture frame.

5. Decide if you want the frame to hang on the wall or stand on a table. If you want it to hang on a wall, fold a piece of strong ribbon or twine into a loop and secure it to the top center of the picture frame using the hot glue gun. Let dry. If you want it to stand up as a frame, use the saw to cut two 2-inch-long pieces of bamboo. Secure each of these to the bottom of each side of the frame with the hot glue gun. Let dry.

6. Add your picture of choice into the frame and secure it with a couple pieces of the thick paper inserted between the back of the picture and the frame, or you can secure it with tape.

Tips & Warnings

• Create an artsy or unique touch by adding green bamboo stalks, leaves, seashells, etc. Experiment with white or black bamboo

• Always be cautious when working with sharp objects or hot glue guns. Use gloves and protective eyewear.