How to Make Homemade Poster Frames
- 1). Measure the diameter of the poster to be framed. This will determine the size and lengths of the other materials you need.
- 2). Glue the plain molding to the back side of the face molding ¼ inch up from the bottom. This will form a rabbet, the inset inside which the plexiglass, poster and backing will later sit. Secure it with some small C-clamps, being careful not to damage the face molding. Let the glue dry overnight.
- 3). Cut one end of the molding at a 45-degree angle, using the miter saw. Measure along the rabbet to find the place to make your second 45-degree miter cut. The rabbet should be about 1/32 inch longer than one side of your poster to allow room to slide in your plexiglass, poster and backing. Repeat this step for all four sides of your poster frame.
- 4). Put wood glue on the mitered edges of the molding, and join them together into the frame. Be sure to wipe away any excess glue that seeps out.
- 5). Secure the corners for overnight drying, using a band clamp if you have one large enough, or four corner clamps if you do not.
- 6). Drill a small guide hole to avoid splitting the frame. To strengthen the joints, carefully drive a ¾-inch 18-penny nail into each of the joints. If you wish to hide the nail head, use a nail recess to drive the nail in slightly past the surface of the frame, and cover the hole with wood putty. After the putty dries, sand it with a extra-fine-grit sandpaper.
- 7). Paint or varnish your frame to suit your taste. If you use paint, put a coat of wood primer on first to avoid peeling. Let the paint dry.
- 8). Place your sheet of plexiglass, poster and foamboard backing into the frame's rabbet.
- 9). Screw clips into the back of the frame to hold the plexiglass, poster and backing in place. Put at least two clips on each side, and add more according to the size of your poster.
- 10
Attach heavy-duty wire to the back of your frame with two eye screws for hanging.
