How to Cut Picture Frame Molding

Have you noticed intricate molding on old picture frames and wondered how they get those decorative edges? If you find yourself staring at vintage frames enviously or are simply looking to upgrade your DIY picture framing game, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, I’ll take you through the simple but crucial steps to cutting your picture frame molding profiles using essential woodworking tools.

You’ll craft custom frames like an old pro with some practice. We’ll cover selecting the suitable molding material, choosing a molding profile, and carefully cutting freehand or using a router to get perfect results. By the end, you’ll outfit your walls with art framed in molding styles you never thought possible. Let’s start on how to cut picture frame molding by transforming a basic frame into a work of art through the magic of molding!

Necessary Items

Before you get started, it’s essential to have the right tools and materials on hand. Here are the items you’ll need for this project:

• Molding Material: This can be purchased at any home improvement store in various styles and sizes. Popular options include wood, plastic, or even foam.
• Miter Saw, or Hand Saw: This will be used to cut the angles on the molding.
• Router (optional): If you want more precise and consistent cuts, use a router with a molding bit instead of a hand saw.
• Sandpaper: For smoothing out any rough edges or imperfections in the cut pieces of molding.
• Measuring Tape: Essential for measuring and marking the molding before cutting.
• Pencil: Used for marking the angles and cuts on the molding.
• Safety Equipment: Always wear safety glasses and a mask while working with any power tools or materials that produce dust. Protect your hands with gloves when handling sharp edges.

10 Steps on How to Cut Picture Frame Molding

Step 1: Selecting the Right Molding Material

Before you begin, choosing the suitable molding material for your project is essential. The most common options include wood, plastic, and foam. Wood is a classic choice and can come in various types, such as pine, oak, or cherry. Plastic and foam are more affordable options and can mimic the look of wood.

Step 2: Choosing a Molding Profile

There are countless molding profiles, each offering a unique look and feel. Take your time to browse through different styles and choose one that best fits your needs or compliments the artwork you’ll be framing.

Step 3: Measuring

Measure the length of each side of the frame you want to make, adding an extra inch on each end for overlapping corners. This will ensure you have enough material to create clean-mitered corners.

Step 4: Marking the Molding

Using a pencil, mark the molding according to your measurements and angle requirements. Make sure to double-check your markings before making any cuts.

Step 5: Making Straight Cuts

Carefully cut along the marked lines using a hand saw to create straight and clean cuts. For more precision, you can use a miter saw. Just make sure to secure the molding in place before cutting.

Step 6: Making Angled Cuts

For angled cuts, adjust the miter saw to your desired angle and ensure the molding is securely clamped before cutting. Using a hand saw, use a miter box to guide your cuts. Remember to make angled cuts in opposite directions for each piece of molding that will be joined together.

Step 7: Sand and Smooth the Cut Pieces

After cutting the molding pieces, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections. This step is crucial for ensuring a professional-looking finish.

Step 8: Assemble the Frame

Lay out the cut pieces of molding and dry-fit them to ensure they fit snugly at the corners. If there are any gaps, use wood glue or filler to fill them in. Once satisfied with the fit, use wood glue to attach the corners and secure them in place.

Step 9: Optional Routing

If you want more intricate designs or a smoother finish, use a router with a molding bit to create decorative edges on your frame. Make sure to carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the router.

Step 10: Final Touches

After the glue has dried, you can add final touches to your frame, such as staining or painting. You can also attach hanging hardware to the back of the frame for easy display.

Congratulations, you’ve just learned how to cut picture frame molding! With these steps, you can create custom frames for all your favorite art pieces and photos. Feel free to experiment with different materials, profiles, and finishes to truly make your frames stand out.

8 Things to Avoid When Cutting Picture Frame Molding

1. Rushing the Process and Not Taking Accurate Measurements

Measuring and marking the molding correctly is crucial for achieving clean and precise cuts. Rushing through this step can result in uneven or angled cuts, making it difficult to assemble the frame.

2. Not Using Safety Equipment

Always wear safety glasses and a mask while working with any power tools or materials that produce dust. Protect your hands with gloves when handling sharp edges.

3. Not Securing the Molding in Place

Whether using a miter saw or hand saw, it’s essential to securely clamp the molding in place before cutting to ensure precise and safe cuts.

4. Not Making Angled Cuts in Opposite Directions

This is a common mistake when making mitered corners. Remember to make angled cuts in opposite directions for each piece of molding that will be joined together.

5. Using Dull Tools

Using dull saws or router bits can result in jagged and uneven cuts, ruining the overall look of the frame. Make sure to sharpen or replace your tools regularly for best results.

6. Not Sanding the Cut Pieces

Skipping this step can result in rough and uneven edges, making it difficult to assemble the frame and achieve a professional-looking finish. Take the time to sand and smooth out any imperfections.

7. Overlooking the Importance of Glue

Using high-quality wood glue is crucial for creating solid and durable frames. Take advantage of this step; your structure may fall apart over time.

8. Not Experimenting with Different Molding Materials and Profiles

Feel free to try different materials and profiles to find the perfect fit for your artwork. Each option will offer a unique look and feel, so take the time to explore your options before starting a project.  Taking time, using proper tools and techniques, and paying attention to detail are critical to achieving professional-looking picture frame molding cuts. With these tips, you can create beautiful and unique frames for all your favorite pieces. 

Frequently Asked Questions on Cutting Picture Frame Molding

Can I Use Any Type of Saw to Cut Picture Frame Molding?

Yes, you can use a hand saw or a miter saw for cutting picture frame molding. However, a miter saw will provide more precision and ease when making angled cuts.

How Thick Should the Molding Be?

The thickness of the molding depends on personal preference and the size of the frame. Typically, molding for small structures should be around 1 inch thick, while larger frames can have molding up to 2 inches thick.

Can I Use Different Types of Molding for One Frame?

Yes, you can mix and match different types of molding to create a unique look for your frame. Just carefully plan and measure before cutting to ensure a proper fit.

Do I Need Special Tools for Cutting Picture Frame Molding?

Aside from a saw, you may also need a miter box or vice grips to hold the molding in place while cutting. A router can also be used for more intricate designs, but it is not necessary.

How Do I Know What Angle to Cut the Molding?

The most common angle for cutting molding is a 45-degree angle, which creates a perfect mitered corner. However, you can adjust the angle depending on your desired look and design. It’s important to always double-check your measurements before making any cuts.

Is It Necessary to Glue the Mitered Corners?

Gluing the corners is vital for creating a strong and sturdy frame. Use wood glue and clamp the corners until the glue has dried completely.  Overall, always prioritize safety, measure accurately, and take time when cutting picture frame molding to achieve professional results.

Conclusion

Cutting picture frame molding may seem intimidating, but using the right tools and techniques can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Remember to take your time, use proper safety equipment, and experiment with different materials and profiles to find the perfect fit for your needs. With these steps and tips on how to cut picture frame molding, you’ll be able to create beautiful and professional-looking frames for all your artwork and photos. 

So go ahead and try it – you’ll be proud to display your handmade frames in no time!  Keep exploring your creativity with different projects related to framing, such as matting or creating shadow boxes. The possibilities are endless, and with each new project, you’ll continue to improve your skills and create unique pieces that reflect your style.