How to Build Your Own Picture Frames

Making custom picture frames lets you tailor your design to perfectly fit your art, décor, or budget. Whether you’re using hardwood, softwood, or reclaimed wood, building frames is straightforward with the right tools and preparation. Below is a complete guide covering everything you need to know—from materials to tools, and the step-by-step process. Let's get started! MATERIALS & TOOLS Materials: Wood molding or frame stock (choose a profile you like) Glass or acrylic sheet (for glazing) Mat board (optional, for decorative border around the picture) Foam core or cardboard backing Wood glue Finishing materials: wood stain, paint, varnish (optional) Hanging hardware: D-rings, wire, sawtooth hangers Flexipoints or turn buttons Tape (acid-free for mounting artwork) Tools: Miter saw or miter box Clamps (especially corner clamps) Measuring tape, ruler, square Sander or sanding block Nail gun or hammer and small nails/brads Router (to cut rabbets if not pre-milled) Glass cutter (if cutting your own glazing) Drill (for hardware) Utility knife (for matting or backing) STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS 1. Measure Your Artwork Measure height and width of the artwork. Add 1/8" to both dimensions for proper fit. Decide if you’ll include a mat and calculate the mat opening accordingly. 2. Choose & Cut Frame Molding Select your molding (style, width, wood type). Cut four pieces with 45° angles using a miter saw. Two long sides = artwork width + 1/8", two short sides = artwork height + 1/8". 3. Assemble the Frame Apply wood glue to the miter joints. Use clamps or a corner band clamp to hold square. Reinforce with V-nails, brads, corner splines, or staples (optional). Let dry overnight. 4. Add Rabbet (if needed) A rabbet is the ledge on the inside of the frame where the glass and backing rest. If your wood doesn’t have one, route a ¼" x ¼" rabbet along the back inner edge. 5. Finish the Frame Sand smooth and clean off dust. Stain, paint, or clear coat as desired. Let dry completely before handling. 6. Insert Glass, Mat, Art & Backing Clean the glass or acrylic. Layer in order: glass → mat → artwork → backing. Use flexipoints or turn buttons to secure everything in place. 7. Install Hanging Hardware For smaller frames, use sawtooth hangers. For larger/heavier frames, attach D-rings and picture wire. PRO TIPS Always make a test miter before cutting final pieces. Use painter’s tape to pre-align corners before gluing. For large frames, use corner braces for added strength. Store glass vertically before assembly to avoid breakage. Buy extra glass or acrylic—breakage is common during learning. For archival framing, use acid-free mats and backing.