Crafting A Wedding Date Picture Frame: A Cherished Keepsake

There are many ways to commemorate a wedding day, and one of the most popular ways is to create a custom picture frame. Whether you're looking to frame a photo from the wedding day, the Save the Date card, or the wedding invitation, a custom frame is a perfect way to preserve the memory of the special day. You can even include a plaque or engrave the mat with the couple's names, wedding date, and venue. With online custom framing, you have access to the same archival, acid-free materials used by museums and galleries, ensuring that your cherished memories are protected from the elements and look great for years to come.

Customising the frame with names and the wedding date

Customising a wedding date picture frame with names and the wedding date is a perfect way to capture the 'Big Day' for the happy couple. It also makes a great anniversary gift or birthday gift. Here are some ideas and instructions to help you get started:

Choosing the Right Frame

When selecting a frame, consider the size of the photo you want to display. Standard photo sizes include 4x6 and 5x7, so choose a frame that is slightly larger to accommodate the photo with a border. You can also opt for a collage frame if you want to include multiple photos.

Materials and Tools

• Picture frame (wood or glass)
• Laser engraver (optional)
• Paint and paintbrushes
• Clear coat finish
• Glass for the frame
• Easel or wall-hanging hooks
• Bubble wrap and gift box (optional)

Customising the Frame:

Start by painting the frame in a colour of your choice. You can hand-paint the frame or use spray paint for a smoother finish. If you're using wood, consider a clear coat finish to protect the frame.

Once the paint is dry, you can add the couple's names and wedding date. If you have access to a laser engraver, you can engrave this information directly into the wood for a beautiful, contrasting design. Alternatively, you can use stickers or purchase custom lettering to adhere to the frame.

For a more subtle approach, consider mounting the invitation or 'save the date' card on top of a colourful envelope that matches the wedding colours. This can be placed inside the frame along with the photo.

If you want to include additional details, you can engrave or inscribe the mat with the couple's names, wedding date, venue, or even a meaningful song title or lyrics.

Finally, add glass to the frame to protect the photo and invitation. You can also include an easel or wall-hanging hooks so the happy couple can easily display their new keepsake.

Finishing Touches:

If you're giving the frame as a gift, consider adding a layer of bubble wrap and placing it in a gift box. You can also include a card with a personal message to the couple.

By customising a wedding date picture frame, you're creating a precious piece that will bring joy to the couple and help them cherish their special day for years to come.

Using solid wood for the frame

Selecting the Wood

Choose a solid wood of your preference for the frame. Consider the colour, texture, and density of the wood to achieve the desired look and feel. For example, you could use a dense, red-coloured hardwood like red gum or jarrah, which will result in a rich and elegant finish. Alternatively, you could opt for a lighter wood such as maple, or even use scrap wood for a more rustic look.

Preparing the Wood

Once you have selected your wood, cut it into the required widths and lengths for your frame. Use a table saw or a mitre saw to make straight and precise cuts. If your wood has any imperfections or burn marks, use a belt sander to smooth out the surfaces. You can also use a paint scraper to remove any marks and create a glass-smooth finish.

Making the Cuts

To create the angled corners of your frame, use a table saw mitre sled or a miter saw to make 45-degree angle cuts at the ends of your wood pieces. Ensure that the longer sides of the frame are the same length as each other, and the shorter sides are also of equal length, to create a perfect rectangle. Additionally, keep track of which side of the blade you are cutting on to ensure your angles match up perfectly when assembling the frame.

Creating the Groove

On the back of each wood piece, create a groove or rebate for the backing board and glass to sit in. You can use a table saw or a router table for this step. The groove should be deep enough to securely hold the backing board and glass in place.

Assembling the Frame

Apply wood glue to the angled ends of your wood pieces and clamp them together to form the frame. You can use a brad nailer or pocket hole screws to secure the corners and ensure a strong bond. Make sure to wipe away any excess glue immediately. Let the frame dry overnight before proceeding to the next step.

Finishing the Frame

Sand the frame to smooth out any rough edges and create a uniform surface. Wipe away any sawdust with a damp cloth. You can then apply your choice of finish, such as linseed oil, varnish, or paint. Consider the colour and style you wish to achieve, and don't be afraid to get creative! You can also add wall-hanging hooks or an easel to the back of the frame for display purposes.

Adding the Details

Now it's time to add the wedding date and any other personalised details to your frame. You can use laser engraving, vinyl decals, or hand painting to inscribe the date and the couple's names. This step will truly make your frame one-of-a-kind and full of sentimental value.

Inserting the Photo

Finally, it's time to insert the wedding photo into your frame. Cut a piece of MDF or cardboard to fit the back of the frame, and secure it in place with glazing points, brads, or tape. Place the photo face down on the backing board and add a piece of glass on top, if desired. Your wedding date picture frame is now complete and ready to be displayed!

Adding glass, easel, wall-hanging hooks, and a gift box

Adding Glass

To create a floating glass frame, you will need two pieces of glass or acrylic plexiglass, which should be the same size as the glass in the picture frame. Clean both pieces of glass thoroughly, and use double-sided tape to position your artwork in the centre of one piece of glass. Then, take the second piece of glass and use double-sided tape to position it on top of the artwork. Finally, reassemble the frame and hang it up.

Adding an Easel

There are many picture frames with built-in easels available to buy. These easels are usually made of metal or plastic and are designed to hold the frame upright on a table or shelf. If you are making your own frame, you can purchase a separate easel to attach to the back of the frame.

Adding Wall-Hanging Hooks

When adding wall-hanging hooks to your picture frame, it is important to first consider the weight of the frame and the type of wall you will be hanging it on. Traditional picture-hanging hooks are suitable for drywall, plaster walls, and wood panel walls, while brick clips, steel utility hangers, and concrete wall hooks are designed for use on brick and concrete walls. Once you have selected the appropriate hooks, mark and measure the wall before installing them. It is also recommended to use bumpers at the bottom corners of the frame to protect the wall and keep the frame straight.

Adding a Gift Box

When giving a picture frame as a gift, you may want to consider including a gift box or gift-wrapping the frame. While a gift box specifically for a picture frame may be difficult to find, you can try looking for a box that is a similar size and shape to your frame. Alternatively, you can gift-wrap the frame by wrapping paper around the frame and securing it with tape or a ribbon.

Framing the 'Save the Date' or wedding invitation

There are many ways to customise your frame. You can add a plaque or engrave the mat with the couple's names, wedding date, venue, or song title. You can also include a photo of the couple, or mount the invitation or save the date on top of a colourful envelope.

If you're looking for a ready-made option, you can find wedding date picture frames on Amazon and Etsy. These frames often include glass, easels, wall-hanging hooks, and gift boxes. Some shops even offer customisation options, like engraving the couple's names and wedding date.

If you want to create a truly unique frame, you can design and build it yourself. Start by choosing a frame that fits the size of your invitation or save the date. You can find frames at craft stores, or online. Then, get creative with your decorations. You can use paint, stickers, or other craft supplies to add colour and personality to your frame. Finally, carefully mount your invitation or save the date inside the frame, and you're done!

Creating a custom collage frame

Choose Your Photos

Select multiple photos of the happy couple to include in the collage. Milestone moments such as favourite trips, the engagement, and the wedding day itself are perfect choices. You could also go further back and include childhood photos for a cute, nostalgic touch.

Design Your Collage

There are many ways to design a collage. You can arrange your photos in a grid pattern or create a more free-form layout. Play around with different arrangements until you find one that looks balanced and aesthetically pleasing. You might also want to consider adding other elements to your collage, such as text, decorative borders, or even small mementos like ticket stubs or pressed flowers.

Select Your Frame

When choosing a frame, consider the overall style or theme of your collage. For example, if your collage has a rustic or vintage feel, you might opt for a wooden frame with a distressed finish. If your collage is more modern or minimalist, a sleek metal or acrylic frame could be a better choice. Also, keep in mind the number of photos you plan to include and select a frame that is the appropriate size.

Assemble Your Collage

Once you have your photos and frame, it's time to assemble your collage. If you're using a digital service to create your collage, simply upload your photos and arrange them using the provided tools. If you're working with physical prints, carefully cut and arrange them to fit within your frame. You can attach your photos to a backing board using double-sided tape or acid-free adhesive squares.

Finishing Touches

To add a truly custom touch, consider embellishing your frame with decorations such as paint, ribbons, or other craft materials. You can also add a special message or the couple's names and wedding date to make it even more personalised. Finally, if you're giving the frame as a gift, don't forget to wrap it carefully and perhaps include a heartfelt card.

Frequently asked questions