How to Convert a Frame to a Shadow Box
- 1). Use your measuring tape to get the exact dimensions of your picture frame. The size of the trims that you will need to create your shadow box will depend on the frame's measurements.
- 2). Cut two pieces of wood with the length equal to the width of your picture frame, and two more pieces equal to the frame's height.
- 3). Create grooves along the back side of each wood piece with a chisel. Draw the lines for the grooves and slowly chip away the wood. Then use fine-grit sandpaper to sand the wood pieces.
- 4). Apply wood stain on both edges and sides of your wood pieces. Leave them to dry for at least 15 minutes before applying another coat of your wood stain.
- 5). Take out the back part of your picture frame. Glue the felt piece on the back board of the frame that you just took out.
- 6). Attach the piece of glass on the back side of your frame with tape to complete the inside of your shadow box. Keep the frame face down while you apply a line of glue along the trim edges. Place the trims down against the frame and press them down firmly.
- 7). Hammer down your finishing nails onto the trims to secure them tightly around the frame. Do this on both sides of the shadow box.
- 8). Leave the glue to dry for at least one hour before removing the tape.
- 9). Pin the pictures on felt attached to the backboard and slide the board back into the grooves on the sides of your trims.
- 10
Use your wood screws to attach the bottom wood trim to the frame of your shadow box. The screws will make it easier for you to remove the bottom trim and change the display on your shadow box whenever you wish.
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