How to Make a Hanging Picture Display Frame

I love using unique frames to display pictures of family. You're sure to enjoy creating this eye-catching display frame.

Supplies and Equipment for Making the Display Frame

• One 6" x 10" piece of ¼" MDF or wood of your choice
• One 10½" x 3/8" length 1/16" wood scrap
• Martha Stewart Home Decor acrylic paint
• FolkArt Outdoor acrylic paint
• Rubber stamp
• Wood glue
• Pattern for scroll top on frame
• Proxxon Bandsaw MBS/E
• Proxxon Disc Sander TSG 250/E
• Proxxon Scroll Saw DS 460

Instructions for Making the Display Frame

1. Mark measurements on the piece of ¼" MDF and on the 1/16" wood. You will need one 8" x 5½" piece, and two 5½" x ¾" strips.
   
2. Use the band saw to cut these pieces.
   
3. Select the pattern for the scroll top of your frame. I've included both a solid and openwork pattern for the frame top.  
4. Mount the pattern onto your selected substrate. Cover the substrate with painter's tape; spray the back of the pattern with removable adhesive; place the pattern on the substrate. The adhesive holds the pattern in place, and the painter's tape makes for easy removal.
   
5. Use the scroll saw to cut the top of the frame.
   
6. Sand the strips and sides of frame using the disc sander.
   
7. Glue and clamp the 1/16" spacers to the back of the frame cross strips.
8. When the glue is thoroughly dry, paint the cross strips. Paint the frame piece, and optionally, decorate with stamped or painted images.
   
9. Decision time!! Decide if you want to display your photos in portrait or landscape orientation.

Landscape orientation

Portrait orientation

10. Position the cross strips according to your display choice, and glue and clamp them in place. I place a piece of scrap paper between the clamp and the cross strip to protect the paint.
    
11. Enjoy displaying your favorite photos in this unique picture frame.
    

Carole