Alexei Volkov
Building your own picture frames is an easy and fun DIY project that can bring subtle sophistication to your space. You can use many different kinds of trim, as long as it's flat on the back, and you can choose your thickness and design. You can use wood trim or PVC trim, and you can cut the trim with a miter saw or miter shears. To assemble the frame, you can use wood glue, a nail gun, or a combination of both. If you're planning to add glass to your frame, make sure there is air between the picture and the glass, and consider using biscuit joinery on the corners for added support.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required Materials | Framing studs, wood glue, nails, brad nailer, miter shears, PVC moulding, drywall sandpaper, paint, paint sprayer, primer, pin nailer, DAP Plastic Wood, DryDex Spackling, sanding sponge, wood filler, caulk, glass sheet, picture, backing, tape measure, drill, clamps, corner braces, etc. |
| Tools | Power tools, miter saw, nail gun, hammer, drill, etc. |
| Steps | Measure and cut the trim pieces, glue the pieces together, reinforce with nails, cut at 45-degree angles for corners, route the edges, add glass or backing, fill and sand holes, prime and paint the trim, etc. |
| Benefits | Customizable, sturdy, brings sophistication and design elements to a space, easy and quick process, cost-effective. |
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What You'll Learn
Joining plastic trim pieces
Planning and Preparation:
Before joining the plastic trim pieces, it is essential to determine the required length and angle of each piece. Measure and mark the cut lines carefully, considering the type of joint you will be creating. The most common joints for plastic trim are scarf joints and miter joints. Scarf joints involve overlapping two trim pieces at 45-degree angles, while miter joints involve cutting the trim pieces to fit together at corners.
Cutting and Dry Fitting:
Using a carbide-tipped saw blade, cut the trim pieces according to your measurements. Saws with more teeth will create smoother edges. After cutting, perform a dry fit by assembling the pieces without adhesive to ensure proper fitment and alignment.
Adhesive Application:
For a strong and durable joint, it is recommended to use a special type of PVC cement designed for trim applications. This cement is available where you purchase the trim. Apply a thin layer of cement to both surfaces of the joint. You will have about five minutes of working time before the cement sets, so work efficiently.
Clamping and Fastening:
After applying the cement, use clamps to hold the joined pieces together securely. If clamping is not feasible, you can use screws to fasten the joint. Pocket screws are ideal for joining corners, providing a strong and discreet fastening method. Ensure that the screws are coarse-threaded for a secure hold.
Filling and Sanding:
Once the adhesive has cured, remove the clamps or screws and fill any remaining holes with an exterior filler. A product like the Cortex concealed fastening/plug system or auto body filler can be used for this purpose. After the filler dries, sand the area smooth, creating a seamless finish.
Painting and Finishing:
If desired, you can paint your plastic trim with paints that are 100% acrylic latex or contain acrylic latex and a urethane additive. Avoid using dark colours, as they can cause deformation due to heat absorption. Lighter colours with a Light Reflective Value (LRV) of 55 units or more are recommended.
By following these steps and allowing adequate curing time for the adhesive, your joined plastic trim pieces will provide a strong and durable finish to your project.
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Reinforcing the frame
Joining the Corners
For a sturdy frame, joining the corners securely is essential. You can use biscuit joinery for this step, especially if you plan to add glass to your frame. Apply wood glue to the corners, ensuring the edges align as closely as possible. Leave the glue to dry for a couple of hours. Then, reinforce the joints by attaching corner braces at each corner. Drill the braces into the raised part of the back of the baseboard for a more robust connection.
Filling and Sanding
To create a seamless and flawless finish, fill in any gaps or nail holes with a wood filler like DAP Plastic Wood Filler. You can also use caulk, which works well with PVC trim. After filling, let the filler dry completely. Then, use a sanding sponge or sandpaper to smooth out the filled areas, creating an even surface.
Adding a Backing
Adding a backing to your frame can enhance its strength and stability, especially if you intend to hang it on a wall. Cut a piece of cardboard or thin wood to fit the size of your frame. Attach it securely to the back of the frame using glue or double-sided tape. This backing will provide additional support and help protect your artwork or photograph.
Hanging Hardware
Finally, to hang your frame securely, it's essential to use the appropriate hanging hardware. You can use a picture hanger, such as the Hangman Picture Hanger, which provides stability and makes hanging straightforward. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to attach the hanger to the back of your frame.
By following these steps and taking your time, you can create a reinforced plastic trim frame that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
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Attaching the glass
Prepare the Frame:
Before attaching the glass, ensure your frame is sturdy and securely assembled. Use biscuit joinery on the corners for added strength, especially if you plan to hang a large pane of glass. It is also recommended to have a backing on the entire frame for extra support.
Measure and Cut the Glass:
Measure the inner dimensions of your frame to determine the size of the glass you need. You can opt to cut the glass yourself or have it custom-cut at a local glass shop. Ensure the glass fits snugly within the frame, allowing for a slight gap to prevent sealing against the picture.
Insert the Picture:
Place your chosen picture or artwork within the frame. It is essential to create a border or spacing between the picture and the glass. Use a mat board or a narrow sliver of trim at the edges to separate the two and prevent them from sticking together.
Attach the Glass:
Now, carefully place the glass within the frame. You can use small brad nails or glazing points to secure the glass in place. Drive the nails or points into the frame, just overlapping the edge of the glass to hold it securely. Ensure you do not apply too much pressure to avoid breaking the glass.
Finishing Touches:
Once the glass is attached, you can add a backing to the frame for a neat finish. This can be a piece of cardboard, foam board, or wood, cut to size. Secure the backing with glue or double-sided tape. Finally, attach hanging hardware to the back of your frame, such as a picture hanger or wire, to easily display your framed artwork.
By following these steps, you can securely attach the glass to your DIY frame, creating a professional and sturdy finish.
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Filling nail holes
Choosing the Right Filler
The market offers a wide range of fillers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Spackle, a lightweight and fast-drying option, is a popular choice for many. It is available in different tints and can be easily applied with your finger. Simply fill the nail hole, and after 20 minutes, wipe off the excess with a damp sponge. Apply a second coat if needed, and gently sponge it off after another 15 minutes. You can sand the area after an hour for a smooth finish.
Wood putty is another option, but it tends to dry smaller, leaving indentions that may not be noticeable until months later. It can also leave putty remnants near the filled holes, requiring careful wiping. If you opt for wood putty, consider using a pre-mix to avoid shrinkage.
For a unique approach, try using a finishing plaster compound. This method has proven effective in preventing shrinkage and cracking. Fill the holes, and then sand until it is very finely proud, resulting in a flawless finish.
Other fillers that can be considered include epoxy, caulk, and wood filler. Epoxy is a two-component filler that provides a strong and durable solution. Caulk is suitable for seams and gaps, while wood filler is a straightforward option for filling holes.
Application Techniques
When using spackle, it is essential to use a bit more than needed and sand it smooth afterward. Avoid aiming for perfection during application, as it may result in dimples. If dimples appear, simply add more filler and sand it down.
For wood putty, ensure that you wipe off any excess filler around the hole to prevent noticeable remnants. Allow the filler to cure and sand it flat for a seamless finish.
Additional Tips
When working in a building that is not fully heated or has high moisture levels, be mindful that it may affect the curing time of the filler.
If you are painting over the filler, consider using a two-component filler or an epoxy. These options are specifically designed for painted surfaces and will help you achieve a professional finish.
For a quick repair, DAP Plastic Wood is highly recommended. It only takes a small amount to fill the holes, and it dries quickly. Follow up with a sanding sponge, and the nail hole will disappear.
Remember, when filling nail holes, it is crucial to choose the appropriate filler for your specific wood type and project requirements. Always follow the instructions on the product label and take the necessary safety precautions.
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Painting the frame
You can paint the frame by hand or use a paint sprayer. If using a paint sprayer, be sure to protect the surrounding area from overspray. Start by painting the inside edges of the frame, then move on to the outside edges and the rest of the trim. It is important to work quickly and evenly to avoid drips or brush strokes in the paint. Allow the paint to dry completely before handling the frame or hanging it up.
Depending on the type of paint you use, you may need to apply a second coat for full coverage. Follow the paint manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Once the paint is dry, you can add a clear coat or sealer to protect the finish and extend the life of the frame. A clear coat will also give the frame a shiny, polished look.
Finally, install your chosen hanging hardware and hang your newly framed artwork or picture. Stand back and admire your handiwork!
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a tape measure, a saw to cut the trim, a hammer, a nail setter punch, and a sanding sponge. You will also need wood glue or a nail gun, and a clamp to secure the joints. If you are using nails, a Nail Setter Punch will help you set the nails. You can also use miter shears to cut the trim instead of a saw.
You can use a wood filler like DAP Plastic Wood Filler to fill in the nail holes. You can also use caulk to fill in the nail holes, especially if you are using PVC trim.
First, cut your trim pieces at 45-degree angles for the corners. Then, glue the trim pieces together and reinforce them with nails. You can also use a clamp to secure the joints. Allow the glue to dry, and then attach corner braces at each corner.
