How to Make Simple Wood Frames for Pictures
- 1). Measure the size of the picture to determine the size of the frame needed. Gather lengths of wood or wood molding long enough to complete the four sides of your picture frame. The wood pieces should be no more than one inch thick.
- 2). Cut the lengths of boards you need for each side of your picture with the circular saw. Each end of the cut wood pieces will need to be cut to a 45 degree angle in order for the end pieces to match up together to create a frame. Use your framing square to determine your angle, or if you have a miter saw, set the control to 45 degrees. Ensure that the miter saw has a sharp blade in order to make a nice clean cut. A dull blade can cause the wood to splinter or split.
- 3). Miter a 1/4-inch ledge on the inside of each length of board, creating a small ledge. This ledge is called a rabbet. The rabbet will serve as a ledge where the glass, picture and backing will rest when the frame is complete.
- 4). Sand all pieces to remove any rough edges, and to ensure a perfect fit before gluing.
- 5). Glue the frame pieces together using wood glue and wipe away any access glue. Clamps can be used to hold the pieces together during the drying process, if needed. If you do not have clamps available, lay the pieces on a flat surface and allow them to dry.
- 6). Stain or paint your wood photo frame once the pieces are properly glued together, and allow the frame to dry.
- 7). Cut a piece of thick cardboard the same size as your picture.
- 8). Place the glass piece inside the frame, allowing the glass to rest on the rabbet. Follow by adding the picture and then the cardboard.
- 9). Cut 4 small pieces of wood measuring 1/2 inch by one inch and screw them into the wood frame so that they overlap the cardboard and hold it in place.
- 10
Attach the shelf hanger and hang your picture. If you wish to sit the picture on a table, attach a dowel rod to the back of the frame using small screws and wood glue.
