How to Frame & Reinforce a Large Painting

Technically speaking, framing a large painting is no different than framing a small one. Large wood sizes should be chosen so that the frame is proportional to the size of the framing. The larger wood size ensures that the frame will be more sturdy than a smaller one, if joined together properly.

For extra reinforcement, nails can be hammered into the corners. Rather than using glass, a safer option is to use non-breakable acryllic for a large frame. The picture hooks should be checked to ensure they can hold the weight of a large frame.

2-inch-by-6-inch or 2-inch-by-8-inch pieces of wood for the frame
1-inch-by-2-inch wood pieces cut in half for the inside frame edge
Table saw
Wood glue
Nails
Hammer
Straightedge
Medium- to fine-grit sandpaper
Hand plane
Clamps
Miter saw
Router (optional)
Wood filler
Wood stain
Picture frame hook

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the wood to the appropriate length, which can be determined by measuring the width or length of the painting, then adding double the width of the wood. For example, if the width of the painting is 36 inches and you are using a 2-inch-by-8-inch piece of wood for framing, the length of the frame will be 36 plus 16 inches -- 2 times 8.
- 2
  Make a 45 degree angle in the corner of each piece of wood using a table saw. You can use a miter saw for greater accuracy. Use a router if moldings are desired, ensuring that the cuts are same on each piece of wood. Sand all wood pieces with sandpaper.
- 3
  Assemble the four frame pieces together to see if there is a tight fit. Use sandpaper or a hand plane to smooth out any imperfections. Cut to size the thin pieces of wood for the inside frame edge using box or mitered corners. Test it for accuracy by assembling them inside the frame. Sand the inside frame edges to make any adjustments.
- 4
  Spread out wood pieces and apply wood stain. Allow the stain to dry for a minimum of 24 hours.
- 5
  Glue the corners of the four frame pieces together and attach clamps to hold them in place. Wipe away any excess glue. For the inside frame edge, glue each piece to the inside of the frame and support them with nails that are spaced 12 inches apart and are only driven in halfway. Wipe away any excess glue. Remove the nails when the glue has dried and fill the holes with wood filler. Screw in the picture frame hook.

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