Framing a picture on cardboard is a creative and cost-effective way to display your cherished photos or artwork, often utilizing recycled materials. The process involves crafting a frame, a window for your picture, and a back support, all from cardboard.
Essential Steps to Craft a Cardboard Picture Frame
Creating a picture frame from cardboard is a straightforward DIY project that transforms simple materials into a personalized display piece. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on common practices, including insights from resources like Instructables:
1. Gather Materials and Tools
Begin by collecting the necessary supplies, many of which can be scavenged or reused from around your home. This approach aligns with sustainable crafting practices, turning everyday items like cereal boxes into functional art.
- Cardboard: Sturdy cardboard, such as that from cereal boxes, shipping boxes, or poster boards.
- Picture: The photograph or artwork you wish to frame.
- Measuring Tools: Ruler or measuring tape.
- Cutting Tools: Craft knife (utility knife) or scissors. A cutting mat is highly recommended for safety and protecting surfaces.
- Adhesive: Glue (PVA, craft glue, or hot glue) or strong tape.
- Optional Decoration: Paint, markers, decorative paper, fabric scraps, glitter, etc.
2. Cut Cardboard to Size
The first structural step is to cut the main piece of cardboard that will form the front of your frame.
- Determine Frame Dimensions: Decide on the overall size you want your frame to be. It should be larger than your picture to create a border.
- Measure and Cut: Measure and cut a rectangular piece of cardboard according to your chosen dimensions. For example, if your picture is 5x7 inches, you might cut your frame piece to 8x10 inches to allow for a 1.5-inch border on all sides.
3. Cut Out the Picture Area (Window)
This step creates the opening through which your picture will be seen.
- Mark the Window: On your main frame piece, carefully measure and mark the inner rectangle where your picture will show through. This opening should be slightly smaller than your actual picture dimensions (e.g., 4.5x6.5 inches for a 5x7 picture) to create a lip that holds the picture in place from behind.
- Carefully Cut: Using a craft knife and a ruler, precisely cut along the marked lines to remove the inner rectangle. This forms the "window" of your frame.
4. Consider an Inner Liner (Optional)
An inner liner, or mat board, can add depth and a professional touch to your frame.
- Purpose: This thin layer of cardboard or paper is placed between the picture and the main frame, often in a contrasting color. It can also help separate the picture from the "glass" (if you add a clear plastic sheet) and prevent it from sticking.
- Cutting: If you choose to add one, cut an inner liner piece that is the same outer dimension as your frame, but with an inner window opening slightly smaller than the frame's window to create a small border.
5. Paint or Decorate the Frame
Now comes the fun part: personalizing your cardboard frame!
- Clean Surface: Ensure your cardboard surface is clean and dry.
- Decorate: Use paints, markers, glitter, decorative paper, or fabric scraps to decorate the front of your frame. Get creative to match the picture's theme or your room's decor. Allow ample drying time if using wet mediums.
6. Glue or Tape Print in Place
Once your frame is decorated and dry, it's time to secure your picture.
- Position the Picture: Flip your decorated frame over so the back is facing up. Align your picture over the window opening from the backside.
- Secure: Apply glue or strong tape (like masking tape or duct tape) along the edges of the picture, adhering it to the inside of the frame. Ensure the picture is centered and flat.
7. Create a Back Board
A back board provides support, protects your picture, and completes the frame structure.
- Same Material: Use the same type of cardboard as your frame for consistency.
- Cut to Size: Cut a piece of cardboard that is the exact same outer dimensions as your main frame piece.
- Attach: Glue or tape this back board securely to the entire back of your frame, enclosing the picture. You can leave one side unglued initially if you plan to change pictures, creating a pocket.
- Optional Hanger: If desired, attach a loop of string, ribbon, or a soda tab to the back board for hanging your finished frame.
By following these steps, you can effectively frame a picture using simple cardboard, creating unique and customized displays.
