DIY: How to Create a Floating Frame

Are you looking for a fun and stylish way to display your favorite artwork or photographs? Then a floating frame may be just what you need! These frames give the illusion that your artwork is floating within the frame, creating a unique and eye-catching display. But don’t worry, making a floating frame is easier than it may seem. With a few basic supplies and a little bit of patience, you can create a beautiful frame in no time.

The first step in making a floating frame is to gather your supplies. You will need a piece of plexiglass or acrylic that is the same size as your artwork, two pieces of wood that are slightly longer than your artwork, and some adhesive. Once you have your supplies ready, it’s time to get started. Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a beautiful floating frame in no time!

Section: How to Make a Floating Frame

Floating frames are a popular type of wall decor that can add an interesting and modern touch to any space. These frames are different from traditional frames because they give the appearance of “floating” or “elevating” the artwork or photo. In this section, we will guide you step by step on how to make a floating frame so that you can easily display your favorite artwork or photos in style.

1. Materials Needed for the Project

Before you start, gather all the required supplies, including some woods, wood glue, clamps, saw, drill, and other necessary items. The wood to be used may vary based on your preference. However, the recommended wood is the hardwood, which is sturdier and lasts longer.

2. Measure and Cut the Materials

Next, measure and cut the woods according to the desired dimension of your artwork or photo. Ensure that all corners are square to achieve the best result possible. You may use a table saw or miter saw to make accurate cuts.

3. Prepare the Layers

Now that you have the wood cut to size, it is time to prepare the layers. The floating frame requires two layers of wood. The first layer is the one that your artwork or photo will sit on. The second layer is to give the illusion that the artwork is floating. Cut the strips of wood in the first layer the width that you desire for your “floating border.”

4. Cut the Center Layer

For the center layer of the floating frame, you must cut the strips of wood that will be attached to the border. These will be the pieces that will hold the image in place. You must measure these pieces carefully to ensure they match the width of the image.

5. Assemble the Layers

With all the materials cut to the right size, you can start assembling the layers of the floating frame. To do this, you will glue the center layer pieces to the outer frame’s inside face. Then, clamp the pieces together and let them dry.

6. Prepare the Backing

Once the layers are clamped together, you may want to add a piece of card stock or other backing to the frame’s back. This will provide support and add to the frame’s overall appearance. Cut this piece to the same size as the frame.

7. Attach the Backing

After the backing is prepared, it’s time to attach it to the frame. Simply glue the card stock or other backing to the back of the frame, taking care to align it with the outer dimensions of the frame.

8. Hang the Frame

After the backing is attached, you can add the picture or artwork to the frame. The last step is to hang it on the wall. Be sure to use a level to ensure the frame hangs evenly.

9. Customize the Frame

You can customize your floating frame by adding different types of finishes or colors to the wood to make it more attractive. You can use paint, stain, or even add decorative elements to the frame surface.

10. Enjoy Your New Floating Frame

Congratulations! You have successfully made a DIY floating frame that will add a unique and modern touch to your home decor. You can now enjoy your new creation and admire your artwork or photos in style.

Section 2: Materials Needed and Preparing the Frame

1. Materials Needed

Before starting, here are the materials that you will need:

• Wooden boards (1×2 inches or 2×2 inches) for the frame
• Screws (1” to 1-1/2”)
• Chop saw or mitre saw to cut the boards
• Wood glue and clamps
• Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit) for smoothing the rough edges
• Dremel tool (optional) to achieve a neat and professional finish
• Cordless drill
• Bristle brush to apply finishes (optional)
• Hanging hardware (hook or wire)

2. Preparing the Frame

The first step is to cut the boards to the required size. By using the chop saw or mitre saw, cut four pieces of wood to the length and width of the art you plan to frame. You should also decide on the thickness of the frame and cut the four pieces of wood likewise. Then, sand the rough edges of the wood with the 120-grit sandpaper and progress to the 220-grit sandpaper.

3. Assembly

With the help of clamps, apply wood glue on the ends of the four pieces of wood and join them together by screwing the edges of the frame every few inches with screws. Ensure that the frame is evenly squared up and the corners meet together at 90 degrees. You could also apply a layer of wood glue for extra strength. Allow the glue to dry, as the strength of the glue will only get better in time.

4. Finishing the Frame

Once the frame is assembled, you could opt to sand it down with the 220-grit sandpaper to remove any roughness or any imperfections. Using a Dremel tool would help you achieve professional edges for a cleaner look. You could also apply a coat of paint or stain to the frame to suit the art’s aesthetic or shine with a layer of varnish for extra protection. Apply as many coats as needed and ensure that each coat has been given ample time to dry before starting the next one.

5. Installing Hanging Hardware

After the finishing touches on the frame are completed, it’s time to add hardware to ensure that the art hangs safely and securely. Depending on the size and weight of the art, you can add either picture hooks or a wire. If the art is on the heavier side, it’s recommended to use two hooks or screws for extra stability.

6. Center the Art

Before hanging the art, make sure it is centered in the frame. Measure the width and height of the art and subtract it from the frame’s dimensions. Divide the numbers by two to get the distance from the top and bottom of the frame. Mark these distances with a pencil and measure from the edge of the frame to the location of the hanging hardware.

7. Attach the Hanging Hardware to the Frame

Attach the hooks or screws into the frame at the marked places. If you’re using a wire instead of a hook, measure and install two D-rings at appropriate places on the frame’s back, making sure that they are evenly aligned.

8. Attach the Wire

Thread the wire through both D-rings and twist the ends of the wire together. Adjust the wire’s height to ensure the art is centered on the frame and the wire isn’t visible from the front. Make sure the wire is tightly secured to avoid the art from sliding out of the frame.

9. Hang the Art

With the hanging hardware installed and the wire in place, you’re ready to hang the art. Carefully lift the frame and hook it on the picture hook or screw on the wall, and then adjust the frame until it’s straight.

10. Now enjoy!

Step back and admire your masterpiece. With a few materials, time, and patience, you have created a stunning and unique floating frame that enhances the beauty of the art. Enjoy your newly framed piece of art and let it be the focal point of your space.

Materials required for making a floating frame

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Floating Frame

Once you’ve got all your materials ready, it’s time to start building your floating frame. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Cut the Wood to Size

Using a table saw, cut the wood to the size required for your floating frame. Ensure that you measure everything accurately before making the cuts. Once you have all the pieces in the correct sizes, sand the edges and surfaces of the wood.

Step 2: Glue and Nail the Pieces Together

When you have your pieces cut to the correct size, use a strong wood glue to join them together. Nail gun is also handy for this step. Pay attention to the details when gluing the pieces together, as this will affect the overall strength of the frame.

Step 3: Reinforce the Frame

To reinforce the corners, you can use corner braces or screws. This step is critical, as it will ensure that the frame stays in place and doesn’t fall apart over time.

Step 4: Paint or Stain the Frame

Once you’ve finished building the frame, let it dry for some time before painting or staining it. Choose the color or stain that you like and apply it on the frame. This step will make the frame look more attractive and protect it from damage.

Step 5: Attach the Picture

Finally, it’s time to attach the picture to the frame. You can use clips to hold the picture in place, or you can use adhesive strips at the back. Make sure the picture is centered in the frame, and your floating frame is ready to be hung up on the wall.

In conclusion, making a floating frame is a simple and fun project that anyone can do. With this guide, you’ll be able to make your own unique floating frames that will showcase your pictures in a stylish and creative way.

Time to Get Creative!

Now that you’ve learned how to make a floating frame, it’s time to unleash your creativity! Whether you want to display your favorite photos or create a stunning piece of art, this DIY project is a great way to add a personal touch to your home decor. Remember to take your time and enjoy the process. Thank you for reading, and be sure to come back for more fun and easy projects!