How to Make Photo Frames Out of Scrap Wood
Making homemade picture frames is fun, easy and inexpensive. Using scrap wood and a few craft materials, you can create personal, decorative picture frames for all your family photographs. Anyone can do it, and you will be assured your picture frames are one of a kind. Making homemade picture frames from scrap wood is a great family project, or you can even sell your picture frames at craft fairs and flea markets.
Things You'll Need
- Wood
- Cardboard
- Glue
- Sandpaper
- Picture frame glass
- X-Acto knife
- Handsaw
- Screw-in backing holders (4)
- Wood stain
- Paint
- Paint brush
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine the size of the picture frame you want to make. You'll need to find scrap wood suitable for the size. The best way to measure the size of the frame you need to make is to use your photograph as a guide. Select the wood you're going to use and place it around your photograph, then mark any cuts you need to make to fit your photo and frame. Try to find material by taking a walk through the woods. This will save you money. You can also call a lumberyard and ask about cheap scrap wood.
-
2
Use a handsaw to cut your frame. The way you cut it depends on how you want to fit your frame. You can cut each edge of your wood pieces at a 45-degree angle so they interlock like a puzzle, which is typical for picture frames, because it allows to you to custom-fit the pieces together.
-
-
3
Glue the pieces of your frame together with wood glue and allow ample time for drying. After the glue is dry, use sandpaper to sand your frame smooth.
-
4
Paint your frame any color you want, using acrylic paint. If the wood has a natural appearance you like, apply a clear lacquer or wood stain instead.
-
5
Insert your glass picture frame cover from the back, place your photo in the frame, then cut a backing for the photograph from sturdy cardboard. You can purchase picture-backing foam from a hobby or craft store, but cardboard is just as effective and costs less.
-
6
Screw backing fasteners into the back of the frame, one on each side of the frame in the center. Use your X-Acto knife to cut a flap stand for your frame from the back of the cardboard. To do this, cut three sides only, then pull it out. Cut an additional piece of cardboard the same size and glue it to the flap stand to make it sturdier. You can also purchase a wall hanger and screw it to the back top of your frame.
-
1
