How To Make Framing: A Simple Guide For Beginners

If you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone who’s looking to save money on home décor, then learning how to make framing can be a valuable skill. Framing is the art of creating a border around a piece of artwork or photograph to enhance its appearance. In this article, we’ll guide you through the basics of framing and give you tips on how to do it like a pro. So, let’s get started on how to make framing!

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the process of framing, let’s talk about what you’ll need for the job. Here’s a list of items you’ll need to make framing:

  • Artwork or photograph to frame
  • Frame molding
  • Glass or acrylic sheet
  • Mat board
  • Backing board
  • Glue or double-sided tape
  • Mounting hardware
  • Hanging wire or D-rings
  • Measuring tape
  • Hammer and nails
  • Cutting tools (mat cutter, saw, or knife)

Choosing the Right Frame

Choosing the right frame for your artwork or photograph is crucial in making it look its best. When selecting a frame, consider the style of the piece and the décor of the room it will be displayed in. Here are some tips on how to choose the right frame:

  • Match the color of the frame to the dominant color in the artwork or photograph
  • Choose a frame that complements the style of the piece (e.g., ornate frames for traditional art, minimalist frames for modern art)
  • Consider the thickness of the frame molding, which can affect the overall look of the piece

Preparing the Artwork or Photograph

Before you can start framing, you need to prepare the artwork or photograph. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the piece using a soft cloth or brush
  2. If using a mat board, measure and cut it to size using a mat cutter or knife
  3. If using glass or acrylic sheet, clean it using a glass cleaner and a soft cloth

Cutting the Frame Molding

Once you’ve prepared the artwork or photograph, it’s time to cut the frame molding. Follow these steps:

  1. Measure the length and width of the artwork or photograph
  2. Add 1/4 inch to the measurements to allow for clearance and expansion
  3. Cut the frame molding to the appropriate length using a saw or a frame cutter
  4. Repeat the process for the other sides of the frame

Assembling the Frame

Now that you have the frame molding cut to size, it’s time to assemble the frame. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Apply glue or double-sided tape to the back of the frame molding
  2. Place the artwork or photograph on top of the backing board
  3. Place the mat board (if using) on top of the artwork or photograph
  4. Place the glass or acrylic sheet on top of the mat board (if using)
  5. Place the frame molding on top of the glass or acrylic sheet and press down firmly to secure it in place
  6. Allow the glue or tape to dry completely before moving on to the next step

Adding Mounting Hardware

Once the frame is assembled, you need to add mounting hardware to the back of the frame so you can hang it on a wall. Follow these steps:

  1. Measure the distance between the two top corners of the frame
  2. Add 3 inches to the measurement to allow for hanging wire or D-rings
  3. Attach the hanging wire or D-rings to the back of the frame using screws and a screwdriver

Hanging the Frame

Now that your frame is complete, it’s time to hang it on the wall. Follow these steps:

  1. Measure and mark the spot on the wall where you want to hang the frame
  2. Hammer a nail or screw into the wall at the marked spot
  3. Hang the frame on the nail or screw using the hanging wire or D-rings
  4. Adjust the position of the frame as needed

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I know if the frame molding is the right size for my artwork or photograph?

A: Measure the length and width of the piece and add 1/4 inch to the measurements to allow for clearance and expansion. The resulting measurements should be the same as the length and width of the frame molding.

Q: Can I use a different color mat board than the dominant color in the artwork or photograph?

A: Yes, you can use a different color mat board as long as it complements the piece and the frame. However, keep in mind that the mat board color can affect the overall look of the piece.

Q: Can I use a picture frame instead of a custom-made frame?

A: Yes, you can use a picture frame as long as it fits the dimensions of your artwork or photograph. However, keep in mind that picture frames may not be as sturdy or high-quality as custom-made frames.

Conclusion

Learning how to make framing can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these simple steps, you can create beautiful frames for your artwork or photographs that will enhance their appearance and make them stand out. Remember to choose the right frame, prepare your artwork or photograph, cut the frame molding, assemble the frame, add mounting hardware, and hang the frame. With these tips, you’ll be able to make framing like a pro in no time!