Wood Selection and Preparation
Choose contrasting woods like ash and birch for visual interest. Joint and plane the birch flat. Remove any molding from the ash and rip it into strips.
Cut a 1/4" x 1/4" rabbet for the glass and backing in two passes. Add a groove for epoxy and bevel the inside edge. For the birch, create a similar profile with two grooves separated by wood.
Miter the corners precisely. Check each cut for straightness and a 45-degree angle using a reversed square. Ensure opposing sides match perfectly, using a stop block or cutting simultaneously if possible.
Profiling and Cutting Miters
Create rabbets and grooves carefully – they're crucial for fitting the glass, backing, and epoxy fills. For miters, aim for sharp, precise corners. Verify straightness with a proper tool, not by eye. Achieve exact 45-degree angles by flipping your square to catch any imperfections.
Treat opposing sides as twins, matching in length and quality. Use a stop block or gang cutting for consistency. This attention to detail ensures seamless corners and a professional finish.
Pro Tips for Router Use:
- Choose 1/2-inch-shank router bits for smoother results in deeper cuts and tougher woods.
- When inserting a router bit, push it all the way in, then withdraw it 1/8-inch before tightening the collet.
- Consider a larger base plate to keep the router steadier when it overhangs an edge.
- Push the router opposite to the cutter's spin direction for better control.
Epoxy Application and Final Assembly
Use TotalBoat epoxy for assembly and inlays. Mix pigments to create custom colors for each groove. Pour slowly and evenly, avoiding air bubbles. Allow the epoxy to cure overnight.
Once set, sand the inlays to blend smoothly with the frame's surface. Apply several coats of semigloss lacquer from a spray can for a sleek finish, letting each coat dry properly.
Cut the glass to fit the rabbet precisely. Install hardware for hanging. Step back and appreciate your custom wooden picture frame with inlays – a blend of precision and creativity ready to showcase your memories.
Designing and Crafting Inlay Banding
Utilize a Cricut machine to create unique inlay patterns. Gather wood sheets in various colors and textures. In Cricut Design Space, choose from existing designs or create your own, adjusting to fit your frame's dimensions.
Load wood sheets or veneer into the machine, ensuring proper settings for wood cutting. Once cut, lay out the pieces on your frame. Apply wood glue lightly to each piece and press firmly into place.
Allow sufficient drying time, then sand with fine-grit paper to smooth transitions. The result is a personalized frame that showcases both the beauty of the wood and your craftsmanship.
"Adding a band of decorative inlay really spices up a simple frame."
From raw materials to a polished piece, crafting a wooden picture frame is an exercise in precision and creativity. The journey transforms simple wood into a work of art that holds cherished memories, showcasing the beauty of craftsmanship and attention to detail.
- Christiana A. Pro Tips: Simple ways to get the most out of your router. Fine Woodworking.
- Woodsmith Plans. Decorative Inlay Picture Frame Plan. ShopWoodworking.