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Standard Wood Frame With Stretcher Bars

 Step 1   Step 2 Step 3  

Step 1: Place Canvas Into Frame

Carefully place the canvas into the back of the frame. Check to see that it fits properly. If the canvas does not go in the frame easily, try turning the canvas around and replacing it in the frame.
Editor's note:
If the canvas is bulging out on the sides, you may need to hammer it flat or pull some staples out and restaple the canvas. This is usually in the corners. If necessary use a mat knife to remove some of the rabbet of the frame so it fits.

Step 2: Attach Bars to Frame

Tools and Supplies: Brad Nailer and Brads (headless nails that are generally 5/8" x 18 gauge.)

 

To attach put brad nailer behind the stretcher bars and shoot brads into the side of the frame. Usually the brads are attached every 2 - 3 inches.
Editor's note:
Offset clips or mending plates are another method for attaching the stretcher bar to the the frame. The advantage of this approach is that the hardware is easily removable. Just unscrew the hardware and remove the painting.
Offset clips are used when the stretcher bars are lower or higher than the back of the frame.To attach the clips, a small hole is drilled into the back of the frame, a drill or screw driver is used to insert the screws.
Mending plates are used when the bars are level with the frame .To attach them, a small hole is drilled into the back of the frame and into the stretcher bar. A drill or screw driver is then used to insert the screws.

Step 3: Attach Hardware, Bumpers & Wire

Tools and Supplies: Drill & Standard 1/16" Drill Bit and Phillips Drive or Phillips Screw Driver, wire cutters, tape measure, pencil, Strap Hangars & Phillips Head Screws or Screw Eyes, Wire, Bumpers
We recommend putting the hanging device 1/3 of the way down from the top of the frame. Measure down, mark, drill a pilot hole using a standard drill bit.
Using a Phillips screw driver or drill with a Phillips drive install the screw eyes or strap hangers (if using strap hangers the loop should angle towards the top). Run the wire through the hanging device and then a second time so there is at least two loops. Then twist the wire around itself so it is secure. The top of the wire should be about 1/3 of the way from the top of the frame to the hanging devices. After you finished putting the wire on, pull it firmly from the top to pull any kinks out.
Put plastic bumpers on the bottom corners to help keep the frame level from the wall.

The back of the frame should look like this when done.
Editor's note:
Screw eyes are the quickest to use and are primarily for picture frames under 10 pounds. For frames over 10 pounds, we suggest strap hangers. They are stronger and do not protrude from the back of the frame. This can be especially important when pictures are being transported for exhibitions.

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