How To Make A Picture Frame From Wood

Materials Needed

To make a picture frame from wood, you will need a few essential materials. These items can be found at most hardware or craft stores, making it convenient to gather everything you need. Here is a list of the materials you will need:

Wood boards: Choose a sturdy wood, such as pine or oak, that is suitable for framing.
Saw: A miter saw or a handheld saw will work to cut the wood to the desired size.
Sandpaper: Use sandpaper with different grits to smooth out the wood surface.
Wood glue: This will be used to securely join the corners of the frame.
Dowels (optional): If you want to reinforce the frame, you can use dowels.
Paint or stain (optional): If desired, you can paint or stain the frame to match your preferred style.
Sawtooth hangers: These will be attached to the back of the frame for hanging.
Backboard: Use a piece of sturdy cardboard or a backing board to hold the picture in place.
Glass or acrylic: Depending on the size and type of frame, you may need a clear protective covering.
Picture hanging hardware: Nails or hooks for securing the frame to the wall.

By gathering all of these materials before you begin, you can ensure that you have everything you need to complete your wooden picture frame project. Remember to choose the appropriate-sized materials based on the dimensions of your desired frame.

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood

The first step in making a wooden picture frame is to measure and cut the wood boards to the desired dimensions. This will ensure that your frame fits the picture perfectly. Follow these steps to get started:

Measure the picture: Begin by measuring the length and width of the picture or artwork that you plan to frame.
Add an allowance: To create the frame, add an extra allowance of about 1/4 inch to each side of the measured dimensions. This will allow the picture to fit comfortably inside the frame.
Prepare the wood boards: Using a miter saw or a handheld saw, cut four pieces of wood to the measurements you calculated. Remember to cut each end of the wood at a 45-degree angle (miter cut) so that they will form clean corners when joined together.
Sand the wood: After cutting the wood, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces. This will give your frame a professional and polished look.

When measuring and cutting the wood, it’s essential to be precise to ensure your frame fits together perfectly. Double-check your measurements before making any cuts, and take your time to ensure accurate and clean cuts. This will make the assembly process much easier later on.

Once you have completed this step, you are ready to move on to the next phase: sanding the wood for a smooth finish.

Step 2: Sand the Wood

After cutting the wood for your picture frame, the next step is to sand the surfaces to achieve a smooth finish. Sanding the wood not only enhances the appearance of your frame but also ensures that there are no rough edges that could potentially damage your picture.

Follow these steps to properly sand your wood:

Start with coarse-grit sandpaper: Begin by using a piece of coarse-grit sandpaper, such as 80 or 100 grit, to remove any rough spots, splinters, or imperfections from the wood surface. Hold the sandpaper firmly and move it along the grain of the wood in smooth, even strokes.
Switch to finer-grit sandpaper: Once you have smoothed out the wood with the coarse-grit sandpaper, switch to a finer-grit sandpaper, such as 120 or 150 grit. This will help refine the surface and create a polished finish. Again, sand along the grain of the wood.
Pay attention to the corners: Be sure to sand the corners of the wood carefully to remove any sharp edges or burrs. This will ensure a seamless fit when you assemble the frame.
Remove dust: After sanding, use a clean cloth or a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris from the wood surface. This will help ensure that the frame is free of particles before moving on to the next steps.

Take your time when sanding the wood, as it is an essential step to achieve a professional-looking frame. Remember to work gradually, switching from coarse to finer-grit sandpaper, and always sand with the grain of the wood. By doing so, you’ll create a smooth and flawless surface for your picture frame.

Once you have finished sanding the wood, you are ready to move on to the next step: mitering the corners.

Step 3: Miter the Corners

Creating clean and precise corners is a crucial step in making a wooden picture frame. Mitering the corners involves cutting the ends of the wood at a 45-degree angle, allowing them to fit together seamlessly. Follow these steps to miter the corners of your frame:

Arrange the wood pieces: Lay out the four pieces of wood on a flat surface, aligning them to form the shape of a frame. Ensure that the 45-degree angles on each end of the wood are facing inward.
Mark the miter cuts: Use a pencil and a square to mark the exact location of the miter cuts on each piece of wood. This will help guide your sawing and ensure accurate cuts.
Cut the miter joints: With a miter saw or a miter box and a handheld saw, carefully cut along the marked lines to create the 45-degree angled cuts. Take your time to ensure the cuts are straight and precise.
Check the fit: After making the miter cuts, test the pieces by assembling the frame. The corners should fit snugly together, forming clean and tight joints.
Make adjustments if needed: If the corners don’t align perfectly or if there are gaps, carefully trim the wood with a saw or use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges until the pieces fit together flush.

Remember, precision is key when mitering the corners of your frame. Take your time and make sure to double-check the angles and cuts before proceeding to the next step. A well-executed miter joint will create a visually appealing and sturdy frame for your picture.

Once you have successfully mitered the corners, you are ready to move on to the next step: gluing the corners together.

Step 4: Glue the Corners

With the mitered corners of your wooden picture frame prepared, it’s time to join them together using wood glue. Gluing the corners will provide strength and stability to your frame, ensuring that it holds up over time. Follow these steps to properly glue the corners:

Apply the wood glue: Using a small brush or a toothpick, apply a thin layer of wood glue to the mitered surfaces of each corner.
Join the corners: Carefully align the corners of the frame, ensuring that they fit together snugly. Press the pieces firmly together, ensuring that the glue has even contact with the wood.
Wipe off excess glue: Use a damp cloth or sponge to immediately wipe off any excess glue that may have squeezed out from the corners. Removing the excess glue will ensure a clean and seamless finished product.
Secure the corners: To keep the corners aligned as the glue dries, you can use clamps or masking tape to hold them in place. Leave the frame undisturbed until the glue has fully cured, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

It’s important to note that different types of wood glue have different drying times, so be sure to read the instructions on the label. Giving the glue enough time to fully cure will ensure maximum strength and durability for your picture frame.

Once the glue has dried and the corners are securely joined, you can move on to the optional step of reinforcing the frame with dowels, which will be covered in the next section.

Step 5: Reinforce with Dowels (Optional)

While gluing the corners of your wooden picture frame provides a solid bond, you may choose to reinforce the frame further for added strength. One method to achieve this is by using dowels. This step is optional and can help ensure the longevity and durability of your frame. Follow these steps to reinforce your frame with dowels:

Position the frame: Lay the glued frame on a flat surface, ensuring that the corners are aligned and secure.
Mark the dowel positions: Using a pencil, mark the positions where you want to insert the dowels. Typically, two dowels per corner are sufficient.
Drill pilot holes: Using a drill bit that matches the diameter of your dowels, drill pilot holes into the marked positions. Make sure to drill the holes straight and to an appropriate depth.
Apply wood glue: Apply a small amount of wood glue to the holes and spread it evenly around the inner walls of each hole.
Insert the dowels: Gently insert the dowels into the pilot holes, ensuring that they fit snugly. Use a hammer or mallet if needed, being careful not to damage the dowels or the frame.
Trim the dowels: Once the glue has dried, trim the excess length of the dowels using a saw or a sharp chisel. Aim to have the dowels flush with the surface of the frame.

By reinforcing the corners of your frame with dowels, you add extra stability and prevent potential joint separation over time. This step is especially useful for larger frames or frames that will be subjected to frequent movement or handling.

After reinforcing the frame (if desired), you can proceed to the optional step of painting or staining the frame to enhance its appearance, which will be covered in the next section.

Step 6: Paint or Stain the Frame (Optional)

After assembling and reinforcing your wooden picture frame, you have the option to further enhance its aesthetic appeal by adding a coat of paint or stain. Painting or staining the frame can help customize its appearance to match your personal style or complement the artwork you plan to display. Follow these steps to paint or stain your frame:

Prepare the frame: Ensure that the frame is clean and free of any dust or debris. Lightly sand the surface to create a smooth and receptive base for the paint or stain.
Choose your finish: Decide whether you want to paint or stain your frame. Paint provides more color options and allows you to achieve a solid look, while stain enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain.
Apply the paint or stain: If you choose to paint, use a small brush or a foam roller to apply an even coat of paint to the frame. Allow it to dry, and if necessary, apply additional coats for a more opaque finish. If you prefer staining, apply the stain using a foam brush or a soft cloth, following the instructions on the stain container.
Wipe off excess stain: After applying the stain, use a clean cloth to wipe off any excess stain, following the grain of the wood. This will help avoid blotching or unevenness in the finish.
Allow the finish to dry: Allow the paint or stain to dry thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This may take a few hours or days, depending on the product used.

Whether you choose to paint or stain your frame, take your time to ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish. Consider using protective topcoats, such as varnish or polyurethane, to protect the paint or stain and provide added durability.

Once the paint or stain has dried completely, you can move on to the next step of attaching picture hangers to your frame.

Step 7: Attach Picture Hangers

With your wooden picture frame fully assembled and finished, it’s time to attach picture hangers to the back. These hangers will provide a secure and convenient way to hang your framed artwork on the wall. Follow these steps to attach picture hangers to your frame:

Choose the right hangers: Select picture hangers that are appropriate for the size and weight of your frame. There are various types available, such as sawtooth hangers, D-ring hangers, or wire hangers.
Mark the hanger placement: Determine the desired location for the hangers on the back of the frame. Typically, hangers are positioned near the top of the frame, evenly spaced and aligned.
Attach the hangers: Use small screws or nails to secure the picture hangers to the frame. Make sure to drive the fasteners in securely, but avoid going too deep into the wood.
Test the hangers: Once the hangers are attached, double-check their stability and ensure that they are level. Gently tug on the hangers to ensure they are securely fastened to the frame.

Make sure to select hangers that are suitable for the wall material you will be hanging your frame on, whether it’s drywall, plaster, or another surface. It is also recommended to use anchors or wall plugs for extra support if needed.

By attaching picture hangers securely to your frame, you can confidently display your artwork on the wall without worrying about it falling or becoming damaged.

Now that the picture hangers are in place, it’s time to move on to the next step: inserting the picture into your frame.

Step 8: Insert the Picture

With your wooden picture frame complete and the hangers attached, it’s time to insert your desired picture or artwork. Properly inserting the picture ensures that it fits securely within the frame and is properly centered. Follow these steps to insert the picture:

Prepare the picture: Ensure that your picture is clean and free of any dust or fingerprints. If necessary, you can use a soft cloth or a compressed air canister to gently remove any debris.
Remove the backing: Carefully remove the backing board or the cardboard covering from the back of the frame. Set it aside for the next step.
Position the picture: Place the picture facedown onto the glass or acrylic covering, aligning it to fit within the perimeter of the frame.
Secure the picture: If your frame includes clips or tabs, use them to secure the picture in place. Alternatively, you can use small pieces of tape or adhesive tabs to hold the picture steady.
Check the alignment: Make sure the picture is straight and centered within the frame. Adjust as necessary to achieve the desired positioning.

Taking the time to properly align and secure your picture is essential to maintain a professional and polished appearance. This step ensures that your picture remains in place and protects it from shifting or getting damaged over time.

Now that the picture is securely inserted, you can proceed to the next step of securing the backing board or cardboard to complete the frame assembly.

Step 9: Secure the Backing

Securing the backing board or cardboard to the back of your wooden picture frame provides protection and completes the assembly process. This step ensures that the picture remains securely in place and prevents any dust or debris from entering the frame. Follow these steps to secure the backing:

Position the backing: Take the backing board or cardboard and position it onto the back of the frame, ensuring that it covers the entire opening.
Secure with fasteners: Use small nails, screws, or frame clips to secure the backing to the frame. Place them evenly around the edges, ensuring a tight fit.
Trim excess material: If the backing material extends beyond the frame, use a utility knife or a pair of scissors to trim off the excess, leaving a neat and tidy edge.
Double-check the security: Confirm that the backing is securely attached by lightly tapping the edges. There should be no movement or looseness.

Securing the backing is important to protect your picture from dust, moisture, or any potential damage. It also helps to maintain the structural integrity of the frame, ensuring its longevity.

After following these steps, your wooden picture frame is fully assembled, and the backing is securely in place. The final step is to clean the frame and prepare it for display, which will be covered in the next section.

Step 10: Clean and Display

The final step in making a wooden picture frame is to clean and prepare it for display. Cleaning the frame ensures that it looks its best and is free from any dust or fingerprints. Follow these steps to clean and display your frame:

Dust the frame: Use a soft cloth or a feather duster to gently remove any dust or debris from the surface of the frame. Pay close attention to the corners and intricate details.
Remove fingerprints: If there are any fingerprints or smudges on the glass or acrylic covering, use a microfiber cloth or a lens cleaning solution to gently wipe them away. Avoid harsh cleaning chemicals that may damage the frame or the picture.
Clean the glass or acrylic: If the glass or acrylic covering has accumulated dirt or grime, use a mixture of mild dish soap and water to clean it. Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy solution, wring it out, and gently wipe the surface. Dry it with a clean, lint-free cloth.
Inspect for any flaws: Before displaying your frame, take a moment to inspect it for any defects or imperfections. Ensure that the corners are securely joined, the picture is centered, and the frame is in good condition.
Choose a suitable location: Select a location where you want to display your frame, considering factors such as lighting, wall color, and visibility. Ideally, choose a spot away from direct sunlight to prevent potential fading or damage to the picture.
Mount and hang the frame: Use appropriate picture hanging hardware and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to securely mount the frame on the wall. Ensure it hangs level and is stable.

By cleaning your wooden picture frame and displaying it in a suitable location, you can showcase your artwork or cherished memories with pride. Regular dusting and cleaning will help maintain the beauty and longevity of the frame over time.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed all the steps to make a wooden picture frame. Enjoy the finished product and admire the beauty it brings to your space.