Step 1

Determine the desired picture frame dimensions. Remember to use the mat, not the picture, as a guide to determine the finished dimensions. Add an extra 1/8 to 1/4 inch to the bottom - your eye will naturally pull the artwork down, so this will make it look like all four sides are the same.

Step 2

Choose the picture frame moulding for your frame. Picture frame moulding can be obtained by ordering from our Picture Frame Mouldings section. Builder's moulding and lumber can be found at your local home improvement store if you want to use these.

Step 3

Measure the width of your chosen framing material and multiply this number by 8 - this is to accomodate the "mitered" corners you will cut at 45 degree angles. Add to this measurement the length of each side of your desired frame. Divide the total inches by 12 (most wood material is sold by the foot). Purchase this amount of framing material plus a few inches extra in case of a cutting error.

Step 4

Use a handsaw or electric mitre saw to cut the moulding into four pieces, one for each side of the frame. Each piece should measure the desired length of the side plus twice the width of the wood. This extra amount is for the mitered corners.

Step 5

Use a mitre box and a handsaw or electric mitre saw to cut the end of each piece to a 45-degree angle. The mitre box or electric mitre saw allows the piece of wood to be held firmly and will guide the saw so that it cuts at the correct angle.

Step 6

Lay the cut frame pieces out onto a flat work surface and arrange them so that they form a frame.

Step 7

Use wood glue and corner clamps to join the corner sections of the frame. Apply the wood glue along the cut edges, press the pieces together, and hold the pieces in place with a corner clamp. Glue and clamp all four corners.

Step 8

Turn the frame over so that the back is facing up.

Step 9

Apply two V nails along each glued corner seam with a hammer. Place one nail toward the inside edge of the frame and the other toward the outer edge. The midpoint of the nail should rest on the seam and the open portion of the V should be pointed toward the inside edge of the frame.

Step 10

Remove the clamps and allow the frame to dry overnight. Do any sanding or staining of the frame after the drying process is complete.

Step 11

Attach the hanging mechanism to the frame.