DIY Wall Picture Frame Moulding – 7 Steps to Achieve a Subtle, Timeless Design

 

Wall picture frame moulding trim adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to any room. This classic architectural feature enhances the beauty of your walls, providing a polished and stylish look with minimal investment and labor. Instead of hiring professionals or budgeting for pre-made moulding trim, any level of DIY expertise could take this on! As a result of wanting our primary bath renovation to feel a little more complete, G and I have put together a step-by-step process of creating your own wall picture frame moulding trim boxes, allowing you to transform your space with your own touch!

 

Materials:

1. Wood trim pieces (style to your liking)
2. Measuring tape
3. Miter saw or miter box with a handsaw
4. Level (can also use a laser level – we love this one)
5. Nail gun or hammer and nails
6. Wood filler
7. Caulk
8. Sandpaper (best for corners)
9. Sanding block
10. Primer and paint
11. Paintbrush or paint roller

 

Before

 

 

1. Measure and Plan

Start by measuring the walls where you want to install the moulding. Consider the height and width you desire for each frame box. A simple way to start is by sketching a rough plan on paper, outlining the dimensions and placement of each frame. Another way to go about it is to utilize a pencil and draw out your boxes, using a spacer block. A spacer block can be made with scrap wood and you will measure out the distance of where youd like the edges of your frame box to sit within the wall. So, if your desire is to have the box 10 inches from your wall, cut a 10×10 spacer block. You’ll then put the block up against the wall, and for example, starting with the top left of the frame, mark the lower right corner to create a point of intersection. You’ll repeat that process for the other 3 corners of the box. You can then glide the block all around to make the box drawing on the wall if you really want a heavy visual. If you are making stacked frame boxes like we did, utilize this block in between boxes, or, create a separate block size for the in between to account for ceiling dimensions. For a full tutorial, watch this video!

 

 

2. Purchase & Prepare the Moulding Trim

Purchase wood trim pieces from a local home improvement store, ours match the pieces used for our built-in mirror from Home Depot. These trim pieces are available in various designs and sizes, allowing you to choose the style that best suits your taste and the overall aesthetic of your space. Cut the trim pieces according to your measurements using a miter saw or a miter box with a handsaw. These are simple 45-degree angles to meet.

 

 

3. Install the Top and Bottom Pieces

Start by installing the top and bottom pieces of the picture frame moulding trim. Optional step – Apply a thin layer of wood glue along the backside of the trim, then press it against the wall, aligning it with your measurements and using a level to ensure it’s straight. If you’re confident in your prep, you can go right to securing the trim to the wall using a nail gun or hammer and nails. Repeat this process for each frame.

 

 

4. Install the Side Pieces

Next, install the side pieces of the moulding trim. Measure and cut the pieces to fit the height of the frames, making sure to miter the ends at a 45-degree angle for a seamless look at the corners. Apply wood glue to the backside of the trim, align it with the top and bottom pieces, and secure it with nails. Repeat this step for all the frames.

 

 

5. Sand and Fill

Once all the trim pieces are installed, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or imperfections – a block is easier for larger areas, paper for corners. Fill in nail holes and any gaps between the trim and the wall with wood filler or putty, using a putty knife or your finger to get into grooves. Allow the putty to dry, then sand it smooth for a seamless finish.

 

 

6. Prime and Paint

Before painting, apply a coat of primer to the trim to ensure a smooth and even finish. Once the primer is dry, paint the trim with your desired color using a paintbrush or paint roller. Consider using a semi-gloss or satin finish for easy maintenance and durability.

 

 

7. Final Touches

After the paint is completely dry, step back and take a look with a fine tooth comb to ensure all the corners are neatly aligned and the trim is securely attached to the wall. Clean up any paint spills or smudges and you’re all set!

 

With the right materials and a little patience, you can transform your walls into stunning visual displays that will prove to be a timeless investment. Enjoy the process and the beauty it brings to your home – comment with any questions below!