Make a framed photo montage

This lightweight frame, measuring 8 5/8" x 65", is made from stiff card fastened to pine moulding. Each photo is then glued onto an individual piece of card, cut with the photo to the desired size. This technique enables you to remove unwanted borders and crop the pictures as you like, while adding volume to the photo paper.

For the most striking effect, use only black and white photos or pick a single colour theme

Steps:

1. Cut two pieces of moulding 8 5/8" long and two others 65" long.
2. Cut each end of the pieces at a 45° angle.
3. Paint the moulding.
4. Cut the card to 7 5/8" x 64".

5. Apply wood glue to the ends of the mouldings, then, with the pieces face down, make a frame by placing the two shorter pieces between the two longer ones. Use masking tape to prevent the frame from moving while the glue dries.

6. Position the 7 5/8" x 64" piece of card on the back of the frame, centering it on all sides, then stick it down with the masking tape.

7. Meanwhile, stick the photos to the remaining strip of card using the glue stick, then carefully cut around the edges of each. Score off an additional narrow strip around each photo if possible, so that the photo and its card are exactly the same size.

8. Experiment with different photo arrangements, then when you are sure of how you want them, glue them onto the background card, evenly spaced, about 1" apart from each other and from the edge of the frame.

Fasten the frame to the wall with picture hooks. You can personalize your frame by staining or painting it, or for a more natural look, simply apply a coat of varnish.