Floating frames are great for displaying artwork without damaging the wall. They are also easy to install and can be adjusted easily. Anyone can learn to build a floating frame with a few basic tools. The first step in building a floating frame is measuring and cutting the frame pieces. Measure the length and width of the artwork you will be framing and cut the frame pieces accordingly. Make sure that each piece is of equal length.
The advantages of building a floating frame are that it creates an eye-catching look, allows easy access, and helps protect your artwork. Floating frames make art appear as if it is “floating” above the wall, which provides an interesting visual effect. The frame does not touch the wall itself, so you can easily access the artwork without having to remove the frame. In this blog post, You will learn how to build a floating frame in detail.
Step-by-step Instructions for How to Build a Floating Frame
Step 1: Inspect the Wall
Before beginning, inspect the wall for any damage that may need to be repaired before putting up a floating frame. If the wall is concrete or brick, you’ll need to use masonry anchors and screws. Drywall will require drywall anchors and screws.
Step 2: Cut Out Fabric or Paper Backing
Using a sharp craft knife, cut out a piece of fabric or paper that fits the size of your frame. Measure the distance from the top of your frame to the bottom and make marks on the wall accordingly. This will be where you attach the mounting hardware.
Step 3: Install Mounting Hardware
Using the proper screws and anchors for your wall, attach the mounting hardware to the wall at the marks you made. Place the frame on top of the mounting hardware and secure it with nuts or bolts. If using a fabric or paper backing, attach it to the back of the frame before attaching it to the wall.
Step 4: Hang Frame on Wall
Carefully lift the frame and place it over the mounting hardware. Secure with nuts or bolts. Place your artwork and other inserts inside the frame, ensuring they’re secure before moving on to the next step. Carefully lift the frame and place it over the mounting hardware. Secure with nuts or bolts.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches to the Frame
If desired, add a few finishing touches to your frames such as trim or paint. This will give it an extra special touch. Once you’ve finished building your frame, step back and admire your work. You’ve just built a beautiful floating frame that will bring years of enjoyment.
Now you know to build a floating frame. So go ahead and get started on yours today.
Safety Tips for How to Build a Floating Frame
- Wear protective eyewear when sawing or cutting the wood of your frame. Flying sawdust and splinters can cause eye injuries, so it’s important to protect yourself against these potential hazards.
- Always use a clamped guide with hand tools like saws and drills to help you make accurate cuts and holes.
- When sanding the frame, use a dust mask or respirator to make sure you don’t inhale particles from the wood.
- Stay alert when using tools; it is easy to become distracted and injure yourself if you are not careful.
- Make sure your workspace is well-lit and uncluttered, so you can work safely.
- Utilize a drill press when drilling small holes; this will help reduce the risk of splitting or damaging your frame.
- When using power tools, secure them before starting; loose tools can be dangerous if they are not firmly secured.
By following these safety tips, you can ensure that you build your floating frame safely and successfully.
5 Techniques for Building a Floating Frame
- Measurements: One of the most important steps when building a floating frame is to get accurate measurements. You’ll need to measure the width and height of your artwork and the thickness of the matting and backing board you plan to use.
- Mitering: Making the miters is another key part of creating a professional-looking floating frame. To do this, you’ll need to use a miter saw to cut 45-degree angles on each side of the frame. This will help ensure your frame has clean lines and looks polished in the end.
- Glue: When building a floating frame, you’ll want to use glue to secure the pieces together. Make sure to use durable glue that won’t weaken over time and will keep your frame securely in place.
- Sanding: Once you’ve glued all of the pieces together, it’s important to sand any rough edges or spots where the glue may have smeared. Use fine-grit sandpaper and lightly sand around the frame until all areas are smooth.
- Finishing Touches: You’ll want to use a good sealer or varnish to finish your frame. This will protect your floating frame from moisture, dust, and other damaging elements. After the sealer has dried, you can hang your frame on the wall and enjoy.
These five techniques will help you build a beautiful floating frame. With careful attention to detail and patience, you’ll be able to make a frame that looks professional and lasts for years to come.
How Should You Seal and Protect Your Frame Against Moisture Damage?
Once you’ve finished constructing your floating frame, it’s important to seal and protect it against moisture damage. This is especially true if you plan on displaying your frame outdoors or in a high-humidity environment. Start by applying a primer to the entire frame to do this properly. This will help keep moisture from seeping in and causing wood rot.
Next, you should apply a coat of sealant over the primer. Sealants come in various forms, like acrylics, polyurethanes, and varnishes. Each sealant type offers different protection levels, so choose one that fits your needs the best. Once you’ve applied the sealant, allow it to dry completely before adding a second coat. Finally, apply a protective topcoat.
This will help protect the frame from weathering and UV damage over time. To make sure your frame lasts for years to come, reapply the sealants and topcoats every few years or as needed. With these steps in place, your frame will be ready to show off and last for years. By following these steps, you can build a floating frame that’s both beautiful and durable.
What Finishes and Stains Should You Use for the Wood of Your Frame?
When you are building a floating frame, the finish and stain of your wood is important. You want to make sure that you choose finishes and stains that won’t interfere with the aesthetics of your project.
A few common types of finishes and stains you can use for the wood of your frame include oil-based polyurethane, varnish, lacquer, shellac, and water-based polyurethane. Each one of these finishes has different qualities that make it more suitable for some projects than others.
For example, oil-based polyurethane is very durable, but it can turn yellow over time; varnish produces a glossy finish but can take multiple coats to achieve the desired effect; lacquer is highly water-resistant but can be difficult to work with; shellac is easy to apply and provides a beautiful finish, but it can yellow over time; and water-based polyurethane is easy to apply, fast drying, and provides an even sheen, but it isn’t as durable as some of the other types of finishes.
What Are Some Possible Mistakes to Avoid When Building a Floating Frame?
When building your floating frame, avoiding some common mistakes is important. First, ensure you use the correct materials for your project. If you are using a wooden frame, make sure to select sturdy hardwood such as oak or walnut so that your frame is strong enough to hold whatever artwork or memorabilia you have chosen to display.
Second, ensure that your frame is correctly measured for your artwork. Take the time to accurately measure width, height, and depth so that the frame will fit snugly around your artwork once it’s completed. Third, make sure you use wood glue or strong adhesive tape when putting together the frame.
If you don’t use an adhesive, your frame could collapse over time and risk your artwork. Finally, be careful to make sure that the edges of the frame are smooth so that they won’t catch or scratch whatever you hang in the frame. You may want to invest in a router or other tool to help you sand and shape the frame so that it looks perfect.
Conclusion
In conclusion, building a floating frame is an easy and effective way to give your artwork the extra charm it deserves. With the right tools and materials, you can easily create a unique and visually appealing floating frame that will be sure to draw attention. The steps are simple and straightforward, so anyone with basic woodworking skills can easily complete this project.
By following the step-by-step guide, you can transform any artwork into a masterful piece that will be sure to impress and elevate your décor. I hope reading this post has helped you learn how to build a floating frame. Make sure the safety precautions are carried out in the order listed.
