How to Make Frames for Oil Paintings
If you're putting together an art show, you'll want your paintings to have a nice, finished look. However, having them professionally framed can cost a bundle, and if you sell a painting, the new owner might want to use a different frame. These simple frames can be built with inexpensive materials available at any hardware store, and are removable.
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- Lattice strips
- Hand saw
- Sandpaper
- Rags
- Tarp or newspaper
- Stain or paint
- Brush
- Hammer
- Tacks, brads or small nails
Instructions
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1
Measure the short side of your painting. Cut two pieces of lattice strip to match.
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2
Measure the long side of your painting, and add to that the thickness of the two lattice strips you just cut. Cut two more pieces of lattice strip for the long sides of your painting.
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3
Lightly sand the lattice strips to smooth the surface. Wipe down with a wet rag and allow to dry.
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4
Spread tarp or newspaper on a work surface, and stain or paint the lattice strips to match the painting. Avoid bright or gaudy colors that may distract from the art.
If you are putting together a group of paintings for a show, staining all the frames the same color will add a sense of coherence to your work. Make sure to apply the stain or paint to every side of the lattice strips. Allow the stain or paint to dry for 24 hours, if possible (4 to 6 hours at minimum). -
5
Align one of the shorter strips along the short side of your painting. Hammer it into the side of the painting with tacks, brads or small nails. One nail every 6 inches is sufficient, although you may need an extra nail near the corners. Do the same for the opposite side of the painting.
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Tack the longer strips onto the longer side of the painting. They should be long enough to not only span the painting, but also overhang the edges of the shorter strips, creating tidy corners.
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Tips & Warnings
To remove, simply pry the nails out with the claw of a hammer, or pull the frames off with your hands.
- Photo Credit Sonya Welter
