How to Build a Custom Frame

I built this frame as part of the room I decorated for the soon-to-be-released book, Room Recipes.

This project makes me a little giddy... I loved how it turned out.  And I'm excited to show you how to build a custom frame!  I hope you all enjoy my DIY and Home Decorating posts as much as I do.  You and I both know that frames are expensive but I built this one for about 20 bucks.  I love how it adds a pop of color to my room.  Oh, and if you like the stenciled wall, here's how to stencil a wall quick and easy.

Get ready, here goes.

First thing I did was make the cuts.  Now, this photo is a little crazy.  I would never put my arm in front of the blade while cutting!  This was for the photo op only.  Safety first!

I put it together on the floor around my photo (which was already posted on art board) to make sure the fit was good.

I then applied some Liquid Nails

I was dreaming when I thought that might work.  Ha.  I ended up adding these brackets.  The screws that came with the brackets were too long and would have gone all the way through my moulding.  I bought shorter screws.  Just FYI :)

Then I used spackle to fill in the gaps. Why not caulk?  You could use caulk but I like spackle because I can sand it.  Personal preference.  I won't be upset if you use caulk... much.

I just use my fingers real casual-like.

Then, I sanded.  I like sanding sponges so I can get all up in the corners.  Oh yeah.

Now for the paint.  I mixed my own chalk paint by simply adding some Plaster of Paris (mixed with a little water) to my paint.  It was all very scientific.

I've said it before and I will say it again  "The best part about painting with chalk paint is that you don't have to do a good job!"  Also see my Side Table Redo post.

To mount it on the wall, I mounted the frame (sans photo) with some 3M Command Strips first.  I then simply did the same thing with the photo.  I used 4 pairs of Command Strips in all.  As a side note,  my husband feels that I have an unhealthy obsession with said Command Strips.  (They are just so easy.)

You might notice my new lamp.  

Target special.  Loving.

So what do you think?  Leave a comment and let me know or show some love by pinning it.  

I love a good pin!

I hope you try this fun project!

Check out these related projects:

All my DIY Projects

How to Stencil a Wall Video Tutorial

My Front Room Sneak Peek

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The Shabby Creek Cottage