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Hole and dowel on each side of the frame

D rings fitted in frame

Taped and drilled frame sides

HOW TO MAKE A DOUBLE FRAME

Question: How would you recommend going about a commission to double frame a piece of artwork?

Answer:

As is often the case in framing, there are several methods available but I am going to share one of my favourites as it is impossible to see how the frames are joined together and can be easily dismantled if necessary.

First, check the thickness of the package to be framed - including glass, mounts and artwork. If the total thickness is less than the depth of the rebates on the reverse of the two frames, then it needs to be packed out until it is a snug fit. If it is greater you will unfortunately need to find another moulding.

The two frames you choose to use must also be the same width, I tend to choose the same moulding or different colours from the same range.

To start, mark the lengths you will be using for each frame and take one long side from each frame, placing them face down and back to back with the longer sides touching. Make sure that they are perfectly aligned and tape them together. Repeat for the other two longer sides – this ensures that the frames will be identical in size.

Then, make two 6mm holes in each long side by marking the location with a pencil and using a pillar drill to ensure a perfectly vertical hole. The holes should be a reasonable distance apart, but not too close to the edge of the frame. I would advise clamping a straight edge to the bed of the drill to make sure that your holes are the same distance from the edge.

On the two lengths that will form the top of the frame, make two cuts that are the width of a D ring and 1mm deep. Remove the offcuts of wood and repeat if you are fitting more than one D ring.

Assemble the frames based on the marks made earlier, being sure not to mix the frames. Drill and fit the D ring(s), if two D rings are being fitted, I use one in each length.

Next, cut four 10mm lengths of 6mm doweling and file a slight bevel on each end. Fit the four dowels in the holes you’ve made in one frame - you may need to lightly sand the surface to make them fit but it should be a tight fit.

The package to be framed should be taped to seal it around the outer edge. Then place the artwork in one frame and press the two frames together.

David Wilkie GCF www.silverstoneframing.com