Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Learn To Make Wooden Frames Easily and Quickly

By Ryan Henders

Ever wanted to spice up your wall photos or pictures with a magnificent looking wooden frame? Now you can learn how to create remarkable wooden frame without paying for expensive services.

You may not have the tools to do the custom work or the expertise, buy you do have the ability to make a very acceptable frame with the tools you already have and a few how to instructions. If you have, a table saw, a router and a few bits then you are on your way.

When you are sizing your frame, you are going to have to take into consideration the size and thickness of your matting for the picture. Keep in mind as well that the larger the frame is then the side pieces must be appropriately as wide as well to work with the over all balance of the picture.

First, you are going to need to cut your pieces of your ?-inch solid stock wood. You are going to cut two pieces but tack on an extra 3 inches to the length of each piece so you will have it to work with when you make your adjustments.

For the width of your frame pieces, you need to double the measurement and add 1/2inch. This also will allow for adjustments.

So now you have cut the pieces for your height and length, you will need to choose which profile bits you are going to use with your router. As you probably know there are several styles and you probably already have a selection of them to choose from. In this case, it?s a matter of individual choice and preference.

Now what you need to do with your chosen profile bit you are going to need to make the frame profile. You need to rout the face of the frame, which means it?s the good side.

The area where the glass sits inside the frame is called the rabbet profile. It?s suggested you use a 3/8 inch rabbet.

Finally, you are ready to star ripping the pieces to the width measurement that you wanted. Once you have done this, you will now have four pieces.

On the outside frame pieces, you need to make the cove edge. This is the last pass that is needed.

Now you have all of your profiling done you can go ahead and cut the frame with your miter saw or your table saw.

Once you are sure you have cut the frame to the proper size you have to fasten the joints. You can choose which technique you want here. You can use tack plates if you like but not on hardwood. Consider corrugated nails or chevrons for this. If you are familiar with working with biscuits this method may be good to use in some cases.

Use a picture frame clamp to hold your pieces together for drying. You should also consider reinforcing the joints with dowel plugs to give your frame good strength. - 16887

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