How To Make A Rustic DIY Picture Frame

We all have picture frames around the house, but today, I’m making a little DIY project to create something with a bit more character - a rustic picture frame. 

Instead of the usual sleek, mitered corners on store-bought frames, I'm opting for a simpler, square corner design. It's got that charming, down-to-earth vibe that I think is a fun departure from the usual frames lining the shelves.

Sure, you could easily pick up a picture frame at the store, especially the smaller ones that won't break the bank. But let's be real - the bigger they get, the more they'll cost you. So, why not roll up your sleeves and give DIY a try? 

Cut List

Wood	Qty	Dimensions (Inch)	Thickness
Front Frame:
Horizontal	2	9-1/2 x 1-1/4	3/4
Vertical	2	14-1/2 x 1-1/4	3/4
Back Frame:
Horizontal	2	10 x 3/4	3/4
Vertical	2	14 x 3/4	3/4

 

Materials

Item	Qty	Specification
Wood glue	1
Wood stain	1
Wood varnish	1	wood polyurethane varnish
Wood filler	1
Sandpaper	3	80, 150, 220 grit
Finish nails	1	1-1/4 inch 16-gauge finish nail
Wood screws	1 pac	1-1/4"
Glass	1
Hanging hook	1	12 x 9-1/2 x 1/8"
Backing clips

Tools

• Table Saw or Circular Saw
• Drill
• Clamps
• Sander
• Nail Gun

Process

Quick note: I decided I would use some repurposed wood for the front part of the frame to stick to the rustic theme. To prepare the wood, I just simply use a wire brush for a quick wipe-down. You don’t have to use reclaimed wood, you can definitely go for something like pine or cedar wood. It’s just my personal preference for this project. 

Step 1

Cut out all the necessary parts for the picture frame. Sand all pieces with 80 and 150-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth surface.

Step 2

Begin assembly by joining the Front Frame parts together and securing them with clamps. Attach them firmly using a combination of glue and nails.

Step 3

Repeat this process for the Back Frame parts.

Step 4

Fill any nail holes with filler if the varnish is not transparent. Then, sand both frames with 220 grit sandpaper for a refined finish. Create pilot holes on the Back Frame to prepare for assembly.

Step 5

Apply stain to the assembled frames.

Step 6

Position the Back Frame in the designated location on the back of the Front Frame, and secure it in place with screws.

Step 7

Finally, apply varnish to the picture frame to protect the wood and give it a polished look.

Final Thoughts

That’s a wrap! It’s clear that this project has both practicality and personalization. Picture frames are great wood projects for newbies, and this project allowed us to make something a little bit different by choosing a square corner design over the traditional mitered corners. In doing that, we've created a frame with a unique charm that adds character to any photograph or artwork it holds.

While I opted to forgo staining and varnishing to preserve the rustic appeal, the beauty of this project lies in its versatility. You can easily tailor it to your own preferences by selecting different types of wood or applying stains or paints to match your decor style. After all, DIY is all about making something uniquely yours.