Tips for Assembling Wood Sectional Frames

What to Expect
Wood sectional frames are assembled using a peg and slot system that is sometimes referred to as “T-Nailing”, sometimes as “Wedging,” and sometimes as “Rout and Insert”.  In any case, the basic procedure is the same: a plastic peg (or wedge, or insert, if you like) is inserted into a routed slot that is formed by pressing together the mitered ends of two frame sections, forming a corner.  With the application of a thin layer of wood glue to the mitered ends, the hold of the peg is more than sufficient to sustain the weight of the frame contents.

Frames wider than 2-1/2” typically have two slots in each corner, requiring eight pegs in all to assemble the frame.  Frames less than 2-1/2” typically only have one slot in each corner.  The proper number of pegs necessary to assemble the frame is included with each frame at no additional cost.  You will have to purchase your wood glue separately in the area of the website called “Accessories for Frame Making.”

Assembly Tips
The assembly of wood sectional frames is easy, but you will benefit from a few tips.  Select two frame sections - a long section and a short section.  Apply a small bead of wood glue to the mitered end of one section and spread it into a thin layer using a rag or paper towel.  Lay the frame sections face down on a table top and press the mitered ends of the two sections together, aligning the slots or “routs” until they assume the shape of the peg.  Insert the peg in the slot and press it down with your thumb until it stays in place.  Usually, the peg will not sink all the way down flush with the back of the frame at this point.  Don’t worry, more about that in a moment.  For now, make sure the peg sinks far enough into the slot so it doesn’t fall out and so the corner holds together.

In all likelihood some wood glue will squeeze out at the seam when the mitered ends are pressed together.  After pressing in the peg, turn the frame over, and using a rag, wipe away any excess glue that has squeezed out.  Repeat the procedure, adjoining a third section to the first two; and then adding the fourth.  Each time, sink the peg far enough to keep it in the slot and wipe away any excess glue by turning the frame over and wiping along the seam.

How the Calculator Works
When you click the yellow button that says Get the Price you open a pop-up window.  In the top part of the window you enter the dimensions of the frame you want to price out; for example, 16"x20".  If you don't know how to determine your frame size, click here.  You then click the gray "calculate..." button, and in the bottom part of the window, you are shown the price for that frame.  If you want to order it, you click the "Add to the Cart" button.  If you want more than one of that frame, you can increase the quantity at the next screen.

How to Determine Frame Size
The words "frame size" refer to the dimensions of the recess (or "rabbet") at the back of the frame into which the matboard, backing and glass are loaded.  For this reason, once you've determined the overall size of your matboard, backing and glass for a given project, you've determined your frame size.  So if your project calls for a mat and backing that are 14¾" x 17", that's the size you enter into the calculator.  It doesn't really matter which dimension you consider the height or the width.  Just enter one dimension into each field and click the Calculate Frame Price button.  Want more on how the moulding calculator works?  Click here. 

Note: All frames are designed and built 1/8" larger on each dimension than the size called for.  This so called "allowance" is common in picture framing and is provided to make sure the mat and backing still fit into the frame even if they are cut a little too large.  You do not have to factor anything into your calculations for the allowance when you order your frame, just order the frame in accordance with the overall mat size and the allowance will automatically be added for you.  If you do not want an allowance, you should call us at 1-800-246-4726 and specify "no allowance".