DIY Picture Framing Materials
Finding a perfect picture frame for a beloved picture can often be very challenging. Depending on the size, picture frames can also be fairly expensive. By crafting a picture frame yourself, you not only save money, but you also have the freedom to choose the exact style and color you desire for your frame. Satisfaction comes with being able to say that you created the frame yourself.
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Things You'll Need
- Wood
- Table saw
- Router
- Router table
- Round-over bit
- Spring clamps
- Cove box bit
- Pin nailer
- Glass
- Glazier points
- Tape
- Craft paper
Instructions
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1
Select the type of wood you will use for the project. Poplar is a good choice and can be found in any type of home improvement store. You will need three different thicknesses of this wood. It can be heavier or lighter depending on what size picture you are framing. Use a table saw to cut down the wood to the correct length.
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Add design to the edges as desired. You can shape the stock in whatever way you wish. Using a router and router table for this is best. Use a round-over bit to give the frame a smooth, professional look. It will also help to disguise any transitions between pieces.
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3
Glue the first set of stock together with a thin layer of glue to make sure the frame will be sturdy. Use several spring clamps to hold the pieces in place.
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4
Use another router bit to smooth out the corners of the piece once the glue has dried. Create a round face on the frame with a cove box bit, and cut a rabbit joint on the reverse side with a square router bit. The rabbit joint should be deep enough to hold the frame's glass in place after it is complete.
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Create a jig for the router table when running the third, smaller stock through. This will ensure your safety when molding the stock. To make a jig, take a few pieces of scrap wood and use spring clamps to secure them. After shaping this third piece, glue it into place and let it dry with spring clamps.
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6
Miter the corners of the frame using a table saw. Make sure all angles are correct by checking them with a miter gauge. Use a stop block to ensure all frame pieces are the same length. If not, they will not fit together correctly when assembled.
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Create a jig that will aid in the assembly of each side. Nail a square piece of wood to the bench. Use the wood's square corners to make sure that your frame is correct. To assemble, glue each piece together around the jig, using a pin nailer to fasten them.
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Allow the glue to set, then stain or paint the frame. Place the glass within the frame, and set the picture you would like to frame behind the glass. Secure the glass and picture with glazier points. Tape craft paper to the back of the frame to better protect the picture from damage.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are using heavier clamps, place a small piece of wood between the clamps and the wood to even out force distribution. Otherwise, the clamps will leave indentations in the frame.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
