In this episode, I build a picture frame from a door casing and cut some mat boards to fit.
This project was built for a Colorado Springs Client.
Summary
Creating Picture Frame Moldings From Door Casing
Brian discussed his process of making picture frame moldings from a poplar door casing. He highlighted the challenges of using door casing, such as its unevenness, and how he uses a feather board to keep it straight while cutting the rabbet for the glass. He also explained his method of creating a rabbet in two stages to ensure the pieces fit together perfectly. He further detailed his glue-up jig, which he modified to accommodate larger clamps, and his finishing process, which involves painting the frames gloss black. He also shared his technique for cutting mats and backing for the frames, emphasizing the importance of setting up stops to avoid overcutting.
DIY Guide: Crafting Custom Picture Frames from Door Casing
Creating picture frames can be rewarding, especially when repurposing materials like door casing. I’ll walk you through how I made custom frames for some cherished vacation photos from Oregon.
Materials & Tools Needed
- Door casing (for molding)
- Table saw with a feather board
- Miter gauge
- Glue-up jig (modified for flexibility)
- Squeeze clamps
- Glass cutter (doubles as a mat cutter)
- Acid-free mat board and backing
- Gloss black paint
- V-nailer (for reinforcing joints)
- Brad nailer (for securing backing)
Step 1: Cutting the Rabbet for the Frame
The first challenge with using door casing is that it’s not always perfectly straight. To ensure clean cuts:
- I used a feather board to keep the casing pressed firmly against the table saw fence.
- The rabbet was cut in two passes—the first to establish the groove, and the second to remove excess material and straighten any unevenness.
Step 2: Cutting Precise Miters
For a seamless frame, accurate miters are crucial. Here’s how I did it:
- Cut all miters on one side first, then flip the miter gauge for the opposing cuts.
- A stop block was used to ensure every piece was the exact same length—even a 1/64″ difference can ruin the fit.
Step 3: Gluing & Reinforcing the Frame
- I used a standard glue-up jig but removed the center rod for more clamping flexibility.
- Once the glue dried, I inserted V-nails for extra strength (doing this while the glue is wet can misalign the joints).
Step 4: Painting & Finishing
I painted the frames with gloss black paint, my wife’s choice for our home décor, for a sleek look.
Step 5: Cutting the Glass & Mats
- Measured the frame opening in at least two spots to account for any slight squareness issues.
- A glass cutter (which also works for mats) was used to ensure clean edges.
- For a professional touch, I cut a double mat (black and white) with the white slightly wider to create depth.
Step 6: Assembling the Frame
- Carefully cleaned the glass to avoid trapped dust (a lifelong pet peeve!).
- Secured the mat, photo, and backing with acid-free tape to prevent yellowing over time.
- Finally, a brad nailer was used to fasten the backing securely.
Final Result: Oregon Vacation Memories
The frames now showcase stunning photos from our trip—one from the Oregon coast and two from Clear Lake (including the beautiful Koosah Falls).
Why DIY Frames?
- Cost-effective (repurposing door casing)
- Custom sizing (perfect for unique photos)
- Personal satisfaction (handmade touches make memories even more special)
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