Floating frame assembly guide on dovetail keys
This guide was created specifically for Floating frames by Large Print Studio (link to Etsy shop). You'll receive the frame in parts, along with the necessary hardware. This is the latest version of the floating frame, featuring dovetail keys. These new dovetail keys make assembly much easier, allowing beginners to achieve perfect results on their first try.
Preparation for assembly
To assemble the frame, you'll need a few basic tools: wood glue, a hammer, and napkins or a damp cloth to wipe away excess glue. A flat, clean table is ideal for starting the assembly. Remember, unfinished wood can be easily stained by dirty or oily hands, so it's important to keep your hands clean or wear gloves. If any marks appear, they can be best removed with a fine sanding block.
Assembly process
Unpack the disassembled frame and arrange the bars in their final positions, then flip them face down. For the best results, assemble one corner at a time. The dovetail keys will securely hold and align the bars together.
Step #1. The first corner.
- Take the long and short bars.
- Apply glue to the surfaces that will be joined.
- Wipe off any excess glue.
- Align the bars edge-to-edge, face down, and place them on the table.
- Insert the dovetail key into the slot using hand pressure.
- Use a hammer to tap the key all the way down until it's flush with the back.
- Wipe away any excess glue with a damp napkin.
Step #2. The second corner.
Repeat Step 1 for the next bar, and attach the third bar to the ones you've already glued. Be sure to connect a long bar to a short one, or vice versa, but not two bars of the same length (long to long or short to short).
Step #3. Joining the last bar.
- Apply glue to both joints of the final bars and open the joints on the already glued frame.
- Align the bars and insert the dovetail key into one corner.
- Insert the dovetail key into the last corner.
- Wipe away any visible glue from the frame.
Step #4. Final aligning.
- Flip the frame over onto its back and place it on a flat surface.
- Insert your stretched canvas art into the frame, aligning it so that two sides of the art touch the frame's edges (push it into one corner). Make sure the frame's shape matches the geometry of the art. If it's square, that's ideal, but often, it's nearly square.
What is next?
Allow your assembled frame to dry completely. Then, apply a protective finish of your choice, such as polyurethane, stain, paint, or another option. You can also leave the frame unfinished, but remember that all types of wood will naturally change color over time. Once the frame is ready, insert your art and hang it on the wall.