How to make cardboard photo frames

Would you like to learn how to make cardboard photo frames easily and with inexpensive materials? In this tutorial, I'll teach you how to create personalized frames perfect for decorating your home or giving as gifts, using only cardboard and cardstock. Keep reading and discover how easy it is to make one!

Materials needed

Before you begin, make sure you have the following materials on hand:

• Thick cardboard
• Cardstock in your preferred color
• Glue stick or hot glue
• Scissors or utility knife
• Pencil and ruler

Step 1: Prepare the frame base

1. Mark the photo size: Use a 10 x 15 cm photo (the standard size). Place it on the cardboard and mark the four corners.
2. Draw two rectangles: Join the marks to form the first rectangle (the size of the photo) and draw a second rectangle about 2 cm larger on each side.
3. Cut out the cardboard: With scissors or a craft knife, cut out the outer and inner frames. Remember to make the inner opening a couple of millimeters smaller than the photo so it doesn't stick out.

Step 2: Cover the frame

1. Line the frame: Cut out a rectangle of cardboard that extends about 2 cm beyond each side of the cardboard frame.
2. Glue the cardboard to the frame: Apply glue to the formed flaps, trim the excess corners to make it cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing.
3. Glue the cardboard to the frame: Apply glue to the formed flaps, trim the excess corners to make it cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing.
4. Cover the inside: Cut an X in the center of the card, trim the resulting triangles slightly so they don't stick out, and glue them inside.

Step 3: Assemble the rear

1. Cut the support: Cut out a backing piece that is 2 mm larger on each side than the photo.
2. Attach the stand: Use hot glue or adhesive, but only on three sides, leaving one side free to easily insert the photo.

Step 4: Create the frame foot

1. Make the back support: Cut a cardboard triangle and trim its base at an angle to give it a tilt.
2. Glue the foot: If the frame is vertical, glue the stand onto one of the short sides.

Bottom line

You now have your handmade cardboard photo frame! All that's left is to insert the photo through the open side. You can personalize your frame using different colors of cardstock, decorations like ribbons and buttons, or even paint it.

Additional tips

• If you want to hang it up, add a string or hook to the back.
• Use decorated or textured cardstock to add a special touch.
• You can make several frames in different sizes to create an inexpensive and creative wall gallery.

Video tutorial on how to make a cardboard picture frame