Build Your Own Wooden Picture Frame

Learn to build a traditional wooden picture frame from scratch in this hands-on woodworking workshop. You’ll start with prepared pine stock and turn it into a finished frame while learning techniques that can be used to make frames of almost any size in the future.

We’ll learn how a rabbet is used to hold the glass, photo, and backing and how the table saw can be used to create one. Frame stock will be prepared with the rabbet already cut, but students who would like additional table-saw experience will have the opportunity to learn and practice cutting a rabbet using wider stock under instructor supervision.

You’ll use the table saw to rip wider stock to frame width and learn how to create clean, accurate 45-degree miters. We’ll use simple jigs and the project itself to help establish our final cuts, allowing you to practice making small adjustments until the corners fit together cleanly.

You’ll cut and dry-fit your frame, glue and clamp the mitered joints, sand and prepare the wood, and install the glass, backing, and hanging hardware.

All wood used in the workshop will be pine and will be repurposed or rescued.

No previous woodworking experience is required. Along the way, you’ll gain hands-on experience with the table saw, miter saw, clamping, sanding, finishing preparation, and accurate joinery.

All materials needed to complete the frame are included. Materials will be available for practice and multiple frames, glass and backing will be provided for one standard 8 × 10 frame.  Just in time to add a favorite photo and turn it into a handmade gift.

Please bring safety glasses and a dust mask if you have one. We have a small supply on hand if you need one. Long hair will need to be tied back and no open toed shoes or loose clothing.

Min Age:  16+

Example of a Wooden Photo Frame.  Design your own!