How To.. Fit Artwork in a Wood Frame

Complete step-by-step guide for assembling and finishing your framed artwork

How to fit artwork in a wood picture frame

▶ Watch the Full Step-by-Step Video Guide

Be Prepared

Your wood picture frame includes glazing, an MDF backing board, and all necessary hanging fixtures.

1. Place frame face down

On a clean, soft surface to protect the frame and glazing.

2. Tools needed

Have a small flathead screwdriver ready.

Bend back all flexible black or silver tabs around the rebate using a screwdriver. Do not remove them completely.
Carefully lift out the glazing and MDF backing board.
Place them on a soft, clean surface.

Prepare The Glazing

Remove the protective film from both sides of the acrylic sheet.

Wipe both sides and edges with a clean microfibre cloth to reduce static and dust.
Peel the film slowly from the outer edge inward.
Handle the acrylic only by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
Place the clean glazing back into the frame (coated side facing out for anti-reflective glazing).

Anti-Reflective Glazing: The coated side must face outwards to absorb light reflections effectively.

Fitting The Artwork

With the glazing in place, carefully insert your prepared artwork (and mount if using one), followed by the MDF backing board.

Ensure everything sits flat and aligned, then bend the flexible tabs back down firmly to secure all layers.

Inspecting and Admiring Your Work

Turn the frame over and check the front. Look for any dust or debris that may have entered during assembly. If needed, reopen the frame and clean before proceeding.

Taping Up the Back for a Professional Finish

We recommend using 25mm or 38mm kraft brown tape (available on our site).

Apply the tape neatly along all edges where the backing board meets the frame. This creates a clean, dust-resistant seal and gives a professional look.

Dust Protection

Keeps dust and insects out

Extra Security

Especially important for larger frames

Fitting the Hanging Fixtures

Thin mouldings: Use slide-on hangers - position one on each side, approximately 1/3 from the top.
Wider mouldings: Use D-rings + screws - fix directly into the frame, one on each side, 1/3 from the top.

Thread the supplied cord through the hangers/D-rings and tie securely.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps, your artwork will have a secure, dust-free, and professionally finished presentation that will look great for years to come.

Article Posted: 07/06/2018 08:26:20