A simple Picture Frame…

Rick

How can you make a simple picture frame? And, can you make it in a cost effective manner.

Desire,

Thanks for your question, and to start yes you can build your own picture frames with just a router, router table and a few router bits. The determining factor to whether the cost is more than purchasing will be in the cost of the material. If you are using a wood like pine you can build picture frames very cost effective, if you want an exotic material like Zebra wood then this will not be cost effective. So in order to make it cost effective choose a local material.

Now to the making of the picture frame, to start let’s keep it simple and create a flat picture frame using the 1/4″ Round Over Bit, 3/8″ Rabbeting Bit and the 1/4″ Cove Bit.

Step 1: Cut 4 pieces to this dimension 2″ X 3/4″ X desired length.

Step 2: Pick the best side of each of the 4 pieces and mark with an X.

Step 3: Then set up the round over bit into the router and set the height to show the desired profile. Please note please do all changes and set ups with the router unplugged from the power.

Step 4: Set up the router fence to expose only the desired profile. Route both of the front edges with the round over bit.

Step 5: Change the router bit to the cove bit and cut the cove into the outside back edge of all 4 pieces.

Step 6: Is to change the router bit to the 3/8″ rabbeting bit and cut the inside back edge with the rabbeting bit.

The last step is to cut the pieces with your miter saw on the 45 degree and fasten together to create the picture frame.

That’s it, hope you have fun and be sure to include all safety practices.

Regards,

Rick