Gathering the Materials
Before you start assembling your polystyrene frame, make sure you have all the necessary materials:
- Polystyrene frame kit (including frame sides, corners, and inserts)
- Frame inserts (mat board or artwork backing)
- Acid-free adhesive or glue
- Measuring tape
- Marker or pencil
- Sharp utility knife or saw
- Sanding block or sandpaper (optional)
Measuring and Cutting
Start by measuring the dimensions of your artwork or mat board. Use a measuring tape to ensure accurate measurements. Once you have the measurements, mark them on the polystyrene frame sides.
Using a sharp utility knife or saw, carefully cut the frame sides according to the marked measurements. Make sure to cut at a 45-degree angle to create mitered corners for a professional and seamless finish.
Pro tip: If the edges of the cut sides are rough, use a sanding block or sandpaper to smooth them out.
Assembling the Frame
Now that you have your cut frame sides, it’s time to assemble the frame:
- Apply a small amount of acid-free adhesive or glue to the mitered corners of one side.
- Join the corners together, ensuring they are aligned properly.
- Repeat the process for the remaining sides.
- Allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will typically take a few hours.
Pro tip: To ensure the corners hold firmly, you can use masking tape or clamps to secure them while the adhesive dries.
Inserting the Artwork or Mat Board
Once the frame is fully assembled and the adhesive is dry, you can insert your artwork or mat board:
- Place the frame insert (mat board or artwork backing) inside the assembled frame.
- Align it properly to ensure it fits snugly.
That’s it! You’ve successfully assembled your polystyrene frame. Now you can proudly display your artwork or gift it to someone special.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t be disheartened if your first attempt isn’t flawless. With each frame you assemble, you’ll improve your skills and achieve better results. Happy framing!