Write down your measurements so you can easily remember them. For example, you could have a painting that measures 18 by 24 inches (46 by 61 cm) that you want to install inside of a shadow box frame. If you’re giving the shadow box as a gift, or you don’t know the dimensions of the artwork, choose a common shadow box measurement such as 10 by 10 inches (25 by 25 cm), 11 by 14 inches (28 by 36 cm), or 12 by 12 inches (30 by 30 cm).
You can find 1⁄4 inch (6. 4 mm) thick plywood at your local hardware store or online.
Use a pencil or marker to mark the dimensions on the board. Use the ruler to draw a straight line so you can cut along it with the saw.
You can purchase plywood boards at hardware stores, at home improvement stores, and online.
You can also use a table saw or a hand saw to cut the board. You will end up with 1 sheet of thinner plywood and 2 lengths of the thicker plywood.
The 2 top pieces will be the same length as the width of the plywood backing of the frame. The 2 sides will be slightly shorter than the length of the backing because of the top and bottom pieces.
Wipe or blow off any sawdust from the surface of the wood when you’re done sanding. You can use an electric sander as well. Look for sandpaper at hardware stores and online.
Wood glue is available at home improvement stores, at hardware stores, and online.
Gently release pressure from the board so the glue holds it in place.
You could also use a jaw clamp or a screw clamp as well. You can find C-clamps at your local hardware store and online. Check the packaging of the wood glue for specific drying times.
Use light hammer strokes to drive the nails into the wood so you don’t crack the frame.
Acrylic or latex paints are easy to apply to the wood. You can find paint at paint supply stores, hardware stores, department stores, and online.
You can use a tarp, plastic sheeting, newspaper, or anything else you don’t mind getting paint on to protect your workspace.
Work to apply an even layer of paint. Be sure to paint the corners and edges of the frame as well.
Check the packaging on the paint for specific drying times. Work in a well-ventilated room to avoid breathing in the paint fumes and aim a fan at the frame to speed up the drying time of the paint.
If necessary, you can apply an additional coat of paint to the frame.
Remove any backing or other materials from the picture frame so that only the front wooden frame and the glass remains. You can buy new frames at craft supply stores and department stores. Look for old picture frames at thrift stores that you can upcycle for your project!
Make sure the hinges are aligned with each other and evenly spaced from the top and bottom edges of the frame. Use the small screws that come with the hinges. You can find small hinges at home improvement stores, department stores, and online.
Open and close the front panel to make sure it works and the edges are lined up evenly. You can also use a screwdriver if you don’t have access to a power drill.
Use as many coats as it takes to cover the panel without any of the original paint visible.
