Step 1: Apply Glue
Tools and Supplies: Clear Silicone Glue (available at hardware store), Small Strips of Matboard or Cardboard (approximately 1/2″ x 4″).

Before starting clean your work surface. Examine the artwork carefully and clean or fix anything that does not look right.

To attach the panel, apply the adhesive as close to the inside edge of the base of the moulding as possible. Depending on the size of the panel apply it in 2 -3 spots on each of the fours sides of the frame.

EDITOR’S NOTE There are a number of ways to adhere the wood panel to the frame i.e. silicone glue, double faced tape, and velcro are the most common. We like using silicone glue because it is easily reversible yet it is very strong.

Step 2: Place Panel Into Frame

Place artwork into frame. Carefully Press down on edges to secure bond of glue. (To be safe, we would recommend letting the glue dry overnight to ensure a tight bond.) When secure turn the framed panel over to install the hardware.

Depending on the size of the float, you might need to insert some scraps of matboard or cardboard strips to keep the artwork centered in the frame while it is drying.

EDITOR’S NOTE To remove the panel at a later date, simply insert a knife between the panel and the back of the frame and slice the adhesive.

Step 3: Attach Hardware, Bumpers & Wire
Tools and Supplies: Drill & Standard Drill Bit and Phillips Drive or Phillips Screw Driver, wire cutters, tape measure, pencil, Strap Hangars & Phillips Head Screws or Screw Eyes, Wire, Bumpers

We recommend putting the hanging device 1/3 of the way down from the top of the frame. Measure down, mark, drill a pilot hole using a standard drill bit.

Using a Phillips screw driver or drill with a Phillips drive install the screw eyes or strap hangers (if using strap hangers the loop should angle towards the top). Run the wire through the hanging device and then a second time so there is at least two loops. Then twist the wire around itself so it is secure. The top of the wire should be about 1/3 of the way from the top of the frame to the hanging devices. After you finished putting the wire on, pull it firmly from the top to pull any kinks out.

Put plastic bumpers on the bottom corners to help keep the frame level from the wall.

The back of the frame should look like this when done.

EDITOR’S NOTE Screw eyes are the quickest to use and are primarily for picture frames under 10 pounds. For frames over 10 pounds, we suggest strap hangers. They are stronger and do not protrude from the back of the frame. This can be especially important when pictures are being transported for exhibitions.