Making Picture Frames Using Corrugated Metal

Metal picture frame always tend to attract attention with their intriguing appeal. A handmade metal frame can be all the more appealing for the special efforts put into its making. In fact, these handmade metal frames can be great gift options too. Here is a step by step procedure to make a metal photo frame using a couple of inexpensive items. Check it out:

Material Needed

• Offset metal snips
• One 1/4-inch by 1/4-inch corrugated metal
• Measuring tape
• Ruler
• Razor
  
• Knife
• Two picture hangers
• Cardboard
• Construction strength metal adhesive

Step 1
First of all, find out the exact length and width of the photograph that you plan to frame in this particular handmade photo frame.

Step 2
Zero onto the size of picture frame which can vary with the size of pictures. For example, a small picture would do well within a 1 or a 1 and a half inched wide frame, while the larger picture would look balanced only in a 2 to 3 inched wide frame.

Step 3
Now, the actual measurements are required to be added with an extra margin of approximately three times the actual sizes on each side. The frame pieces would be cut out from a 1 ¼ inch by ¼ inch of corrugated metal with offset metal snips which can cut straight or angled cuts.

Step 4
Now place the two side pieces as per the width of the photograph. For example, if the given picture is six inches wide, then the two side pieces should be placed at a distance of six inches from one another.

Step 5
The next thing one would need to do is, etching a fold line of 45 degrees onto the back of the ends of top and bottom pieces. The etching on metal frame can be done using the tip of a razor knife and ruler as a guide. Further, put some metal adhesive on the fold lines and fold the corner of the pieces along the marked etchings to create a 45 degrees angle towards the frontal part of the top and bottom pieces. The folded frame pieces need to be trimmed using metal snips, thereafter. Leave the pieces for drying.

Step 6
Now, paste the top and bottom frame pieces with the side pieces using metal adhesive. It should be forming a proper shape as per the picture.

Step 7
Next, cut a cardboard sized half an inch shorter than the overall dimensions as compared corrugated metal frame.

Step 8
Stick your picture onto the cardboard using an acid free tape and paste this frame base at the back of the corrugated metal frame with the help of metal adhesive. Allow it to dry.

Step 9
For hanging the frame, stick two picture hangers at the back of the frame and well, you are ready with a handmade metal picture frame!

To learn how to embellish a metal picture frame with buttons (DIY article), click here.