When your antique picture frame is damaged, it can detract from the art itself. Flaws like scratches or cracked glass can be particularly problematic, but one of the most common problems is separated joints. In most cases, a picture frame's joints separate because they were insufficiently sealed and reinforced initially. You can add additional reinforcement to protect it, but make sure you also deal with cracked glass and other damage at the same time.
Preparing for the Repair
If the frame has cracked glass, wear protective gloves when you're working with it. Make sure you have a drop cloth or other protective covering on the work area so you can catch any glass shards. Place the picture facedown on the work surface so you can disassemble it.
Taking the Frame Apart
Use a small screwdriver to remove the screws holding the hanger and the clamps on the back of the frame. Lift the backing board and the art out of the frame and put them somewhere safe while you work. If the glass is intact, you can do the same with it. If, however, the glass is broken, you'll need to lift it out carefully and dispose of it in a paper bag or tightly sealed cardboard box.
Disassembling Loose Joints
Pull loose joints apart, removing any nails with a pair of pliers. You'll want to disassemble each of the joints and reinforce them all. If one's loose, there's a good chance the others will come loose over time, too.
Sanding Away Scratches
If you frame is wooden, use fine grit sandpaper to sand the surfaces of the frame. This will smooth out any shallow scratches. You don't need to have a sander or any other equipment for this—you can do it by hand. Sand with the grain of the wood so that you don't cause any other flaws in the frame.
Reassembling the Joints
Use wood or carpenter's glue to reattach the joints. Apply a small amount of glue to one piece of the joint and press the two pieces together. Use a corner clamp to hold them together until the glue dries. Do this for each of the four joints. Leave the frame overnight to dry.
Reinforcing the Joints
If you're concerned about the stability of the joints, put a corner brace on the back of each joint on the frame. Use small screws so that they don't poke through the other side of the frame, and screw each side of the corner brace in place so it's secure.
Reassembling the Frame
Replace the glass panel. Use the existing one if it is still in good shape, or buy a new one if necessary. Then, put the art back in place and secure the backing, clamps, and hanger.
If you're not comfortable tackling a frame repair like this on your own, talk with a local framing shop for guidance. Click here for more info.
Share29 June 2015
Hello, my name is Elizabeth Larson and I'm so happy that you stopped by to check out my craft blog. I've always enjoyed making crafts and it all started when I was a little girl. My grandmother taught me how to make an animal puppet out of a brown paper lunch sack. After that, I was hooked and I've been making crafts ever since. Some of my favorite crafts to make include jewelry, purses and dolls. I also enjoy making nature crafts out of pine cones, leaves and twigs. In my blog, you'll learn about the different types of crafts you can make. I've even included age appropriate crafts for children to construct. Whether you make crafts for yourself, to give as gifts or to sell, this is one hobby that never gets boring. I hope that you'll enjoy my blog and that you find many wonderful things to craft.