Picture Frame With a Strong CNC Joints

There isn't much new about picture frames but recently I had to make one. And instead of do the the tradition method of using a spline to reinforce the mitred joints. I used a CNC to make a sort of finger joint miter. Which turned out to be pretty strong. So I thought I would share it.

Supplies

• Router Ebay
• Rabbeting Router bit Ebay
• CNC Xcarve
• CNC cutting bits Sorotec
• strap clamp Ebay

• Inventables Project Here

Step 1: Stock Preparation

1st I had to prepare some timber for the frame using the table saw to rip the wood and using a thicknesser to get my desired thickness. You could obviously avoid these steps if you get some preperpered timber.

Step 2: CNC the Joints

I used my xcarve to CNC the joints. Here is a link to the file in easel inventables Project.

I used 3mm bit to cut the wood.

Step 3: Glue Up

I glued up the frame using a strap clamp and some clamps on the corners to make sure the pieces was flush. After 30min the glue was set up enough that I could remove the clamps but it's best leave it longer. After this short period the joints seemed strong.

Step 4: Router

I used a router bit with a bearing on it to route a rabbit on the inside of the frame to accept the picture ,clear plastic and backing board. I could of done this steap on the cnc also.

Step 5: Backing Board and Clear Plastic

i used a knife to cut some clear plastic and backing board for the picture frame. it took several cuts to get all the way through the backing board. and i was able to snap the plastic after i scored it.

Step 6: Finish

I gave everything a sanding. And a clear coat.
Assembled the frame and used some tape to attach the backboard to the frame. I didnt want to get fancy with hardware to hang the frame so I just drilled a hole so it could hang on a nail. This could of also of been done during the CNC stage.

Step 7: Finished

And that's it all finished. I finally got to hang up this picture that I've had for 5 years.

The CNC joint worked better than I thought it would. I intend to make some different styles and see how they work.

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