How to Make a Picture Frame: The Easy Way
When your child creates artwork, you obviously want to display it. After all, this is their creative outlet and a burgeoning talent that will continue to grow. You can further inspire that passion by adding new crafts to their repertoire, such as building the frame that will display their art. Many online tutorials are incredibly involved, and they often require multiple woodworking materials and several steps. We’ve created a simpler tutorial on how to make a picture frame to make this project more accessible for you and your child.
What You’ll Need
- Wood molding
- Wood glue
- A picture framing stapler
- Cardboard
- Small nails
- Fasteners
- Paint
- Clamps
Step One: Cut the Molding
A simple way to create the frame without following several steps would be to purchase wood molding. Get four pieces, and cut a 45-degree angle at each end so that you can create corners. Make sure to measure the pieces before you cut them so that they match up in size.
Step Two: Glue it Together
Apply wood glue to the sides of your wood pieces, and allow the glue to settle for a few minutes before you attach the pieces to each other. Once you’ve done this, put clamps on the corners, and let the piece sit for several hours before you return to your project.
Step Three: Cut Out Cardboard
Cut out a piece of cardboard that covers the entire back of the frame—not just the center. Use a specially made framing stapler to attach the cardboard to the wood, and don’t be afraid to be generous with the number of staples you use.
Step Four: Attach Fasteners
Depending on the size of your frame, you’ll want to attach anywhere from one to three fasteners to the cardboard. Once you’ve properly arranged them, hammer in small nails to hold the fasteners in place. Make sure you use a small hammer to do this task, and you don’t want to use too much force when nailing them in. If you do, you may split the wood.
Step Five: Paint and Display
Most would agree that decorating a craft is the best part. This is, after all, where the real creativity comes in. Let your child pick out their favorite color—or two—and get to work. Once it’s dried, they’ll get to display not one, but two pieces of art.
