Lets face it, custom framing is not cheap. Framed work may look lovely but if you enjoy a craft that requires it, the cost can build up quickly. Knowing how to build your own wooden picture frame can save you a lot of cash.

When you think about it, all there is to it is four corners cut at 45 degree angles. Where two angles meet, you join them using a good wood glue. A small brad nailed into the corner offers added security.

A biscuit cutter can be worth its weight in gold. This small device will easily cut openings in the angled ends. Small biscuits that you buy already cut, are glued and inserted into the ends. This little wood piece will make the shell very sturdy.

If your need something for a lightweight item or a child’s picture, the solution is easy. Cut a piece of cardboard the size you want and cut the inside opening to size. Add a bit of batting and cover it with cloth. An instant mount has been made.

When you wish to display work in a shadowbox, they can easily be made. Any cardboard or wooden box will do. The depth should be about two inches. Wooden framing pieces are placed around the unfinished edges. Add paint or stain. The shadowbox will look like you paid a lot for it.

Never throw away an old frame. Look for them at garage sales and thrift store. Add a bit of wood putty, some sanding, and paint. What was once old is now new again.

A metal cutting tool will produce some unique ideas. Lightweight aluminum or a light gauge copper can be cut and twisted over any old shell. A few taps from a hammer will give it a distressed look and show off a picture very nicely.

You can buy framing wood at any lumber supply store. The back of the wood is already notched to place your work inside the frame. This allows for finishing the back just like a custom unit.

Don’t expect that you will know how to build your own picture frame on the first try. Mistakes are bound to happen. Practice measuring and cutting on old scraps of wood hanging around the house. In no time you will get the idea of how to build your own wooden picture frame. The results will look like those done by a pro.

If you just want to relax and not build your own wooden frame, an alternative is to use the Netflix free trial here to rent movies instead of going out for entertainment all the time, which will save you a good amount of money every month.