Simple Wooden Picture Frames

Creating your own picture frames is a great introduction to woodworking. All you need are four pieces of wood cut to size, wood glue, and some sandpaper. With a little care, you can build frames that will add a personal touch to your home.

Materials Needed:

  • Wood strips (choose wood based on your desired frame size, such as pine or oak)
  • Wood glue (for joining the frame pieces)
  • Nails or screws (optional for extra support)
  • Paint or stain (to finish the frame)
  • Sandpaper (for smoothing edges and surfaces)
  • Saw (to cut the wood strips to size)
  • Clamps (to hold the frame pieces together while the glue dries)
  • Measuring tape or ruler
  • Miter box or miter saw (for 45-degree angled cuts)
  • Back panel and glass/acrylic sheet (for the inside of the frame)
  • Frame hanging hardware (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Measure the Photo or Artwork

  • Measure the dimensions of the photo or artwork you’ll be framing. This will determine the size of your frame.
  • Decide on the width of the frame edges (typically between 1" to 2" wide).

2. Cut the Wood Strips

Cut the Wood Strips

  • Use a saw to cut four wood strips to the correct lengths.
  • To create a standard rectangular or square frame, the ends of the wood strips should be cut at 45-degree angles. Use a miter saw or a miter box to ensure accuracy.
  • You should have two pieces for the sides (cut to the height of your artwork) and two pieces for the top and bottom (cut to the width of your artwork).

3. Sand the Edges

Sand the Edges

  • Use sandpaper to smooth all the cut edges of your wood strips. This will ensure a clean fit when you glue the pieces together.
  • Lightly sand the surfaces for a smooth finish later.

4. Assemble the Frame

Assemble the Frame

  • Arrange the wood strips on a flat surface, forming a rectangle or square.
  • Apply a thin line of wood glue along the mitered edges of each corner.
  • Press the edges together, ensuring that the corners align perfectly.
  • Use clamps to hold the frame together while the glue dries. Leave it to dry for several hours (refer to the glue’s drying instructions).

5. Reinforce the Frame (Optional)

Reinforce the Frame

  • For added strength, you can use nails or screws at the corners. Drill small pilot holes at the joints before inserting nails or screws to avoid splitting the wood.

6. Sand the Frame Again

Sand the Frame Again

  • After the glue has dried, sand the entire frame to smooth any rough edges or glue that may have seeped out.
  • This step is key to achieving a professional look.

7. Finish the Frame

Finish the Frame

  • Paint or stain the frame according to your preference. Staining brings out the natural beauty of the wood, while paint can add a pop of color.
  • Let the finish dry completely before handling the frame.

8. Add the Back Panel and Glass

Add the Back Panel and Glass

  • Cut a piece of glass or acrylic sheet to fit inside the frame.
  • Cut a backing panel (this could be cardboard, thin plywood, or another sturdy material) to the same size.
  • Insert your photo or artwork, followed by the glass/acrylic sheet, and then secure the backing panel with small nails or frame clips.

9. Attach Hanging Hardware (Optional)

Attach Hanging Hardware

  • If you plan to hang your frame on a wall, attach hardware such as D-rings or sawtooth hangers to the back of the frame.

Tips:

  • Be precise with your measurements and cuts, especially for the mitered corners, as this will greatly impact the final look of your frame.
  • Experiment with different wood types and finishes to create frames that match various styles or room decor.
  • You can also add decorative touches, such as carving or embellishing the wood before staining or painting.

This simple project is an excellent way to start working with wood while also creating something beautiful and functional for your home!