Introduction: Laser Cut Frame, 5x7
About: When people ask what I make my answer usually goes something like, "Anything in three dimensions." My background and entry into serious making developed as a sculpture student. Like many artists, I support…
This Instructables will take you step by step through the process of making a simple table-top frame. The files I've provided will result in a frame for a 5" x 7" photo (flyer, menu card, etc.). Of course you can also engrave a pattern, text, or whatever other decorative elements you'd like. I enjoy the simplicity of the engraved line border but feel free to alter your frame however you'd like!
The project files are ready for use on any Epilog laser. If you are not using an Epilog you may need to adjust line width.
The project files are ready for use on any Epilog laser. If you are not using an Epilog you may need to adjust line width.
Step 1: Materials
You'll need only a 10" x 16"+ piece of 1/8" acrylic and a 10" x 8"+ piece of wood veneer of your choice. You'll likely want to keep in mind what your base will be made from when choosing your veneer.
Step 2: Download and Open
Download the attached DXF files. "Frame_5x7.dxf" is for cutting and engraving the acrylic while "FrameVeneer_5x7.dxf" is only for the veneer.
Open/import the files in whichever program necessary to operate your laser.
If your making your frame on an Epilog laser, you should be ready to go!
Open/import the files in whichever program necessary to operate your laser.
If your making your frame on an Epilog laser, you should be ready to go!
Step 3: Cutting/Engraving Acrylic
Send the files to your laser and watch the magic happen! Sorry I can't be more specific, every laser is different.
Step 4: Cutting the Veneer
Load your veneer and run the veneer file.
Step 5: Base
The base I made is simply a block of 1" thick Red Oak with a channel routed with a dovetail bit to allow the frame to lean.
You can, of course, invent your own!
You can, of course, invent your own!
Step 6: Assembling the Frame
With all your parts finished you're ready to assemble the frame.
Sandwich the veneer between the two pieces of acrylic. (Optional step: I like to put a piece of clear tape along the top. This not only keeps the top together but it should allow your photo to stay in place without any additional tape.)
YOU'RE DONE!
Sandwich the veneer between the two pieces of acrylic. (Optional step: I like to put a piece of clear tape along the top. This not only keeps the top together but it should allow your photo to stay in place without any additional tape.)
YOU'RE DONE!