James and Family

Frames, version 2
Previous posts:

Frames Part 1
Frames Part 2

I spent some time over the weekend to build more of those frames that I started building last month.

As with all of my projects, after building my first frames, I learned from my mistakes, and I let some time pass to figure out what changes I would like to make.

So I built 4 more frames this weekend. I'm going with more conventional designs this time, as I am learning why popular designs are so popular.


The first thing you'll notice is I'm using an Ebony stain which will yield a very dark brown, almost black, finish. And I am using 2" wood, as opposed to 3" wood in my previous design. Click here for more detail on the frame.

I have also developed the technique for cutting mat boards, and I can proudly show you the detail:

Clean and straight. This is something I wouldn't have dared showing the first time I did it!







Finally, as a cost-cutting measure, I decided that I would cut my own glass.


I need 16"x16" glass, so all I had to do was take 4 inches off the long side. This pre-cut glass is up to $7 cheaper per piece than if I ordered custom-cut glass. It all adds up when you have multiple frames.

The overall size of my frame is determined based on (1) showing 10"x8" photos, (2) the available pre-cut glass sizes, and (3) maximizing the number of mats I can cut from one 32"x40" sheet.


I am ending up with about $20 in material costs for each frame. Now compare to $45 for the 8"x10" version for these (from Pottery Barn):