DIY Magnetic Wood Frames

If there are three things I’m a “succa” for it’s succulents, custom artwork, and easy DIY projects! I partnered with my friends at DAP Products to create a fun and easy magnetic wood picture frame for my new cute new artwork from Bloom To Brush! Even better, this project was made with free lumber (yay for scrap wood projects)! Want the free plans? Here we go!

When Natalie from Bloom To Brush sent me this adorable watercolor artwork and asked if I knew how to make a magnetic frame, I jumped to the challenge to make some magic happen! I was able to make this cute tabletop frame in just a few easy steps and with some of my leftover scraps!

What You’ll Need:

Tools
Miter Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Drill
¾” Forstner Bit
Sander
Hammer (For De-Stressing Wood)

Materials
DAP Rapid Fuse Wood Adhesive
1 x 8 Common Board*
1 x 2 Common Board
(4) ¾” Wide Ceramic Disc Magnets
Wood Stain

*Disclaimer: This frame was build for a 5 x 7″ watercolor print. You will have to increase the size of your larger common board if you are building a frame for a bigger piece of artwork.

How to Make a Magnetic Wood Frame

The Steps:

1. Measure your 1 x 8″ board to fit your print. Since my print is 5 x 7″, I cut my board at 9″ high.

2. Once you have your measurements, use your miter saw to cut your board.

3. Keep any excess cut-offs to create a backing for your frame. The backing should be at least 3″ long. You can also angle part of this cut if you do not want your frame to stand straight (I ended up cutting mine at 5 degrees on my miter saw).

4. Next, measure and cut two 1 x 2 boards at 6″ wide. These will be your photo holders, since the magnets will be placed inside.

5. Once your pieces are cut, use a measuring tape to find and mark your spaces for your magnets to live. I created markings 2″ inward from the ends of my 1 x 2″ pieces and then matched those measurements on my 1 x 8″ board.

6. Drill those holes!

7. Once your holes have been drilled, attach the back piece with brad nails and wood adhesive (again, I ended up removing my 90 degree piece and adding a 5 degree piece later on).

8. After assembly, use a sander to smooth and prep your work for stain.

9. If you’re looking for a rustic look, you can use items like a hammer and screws to beat up your piece!

10. Next, stain your piece.

11. Once dry, apply your magnets to the holes with DAP Rapid Fuse. Make sure that they are all facing the right way, otherwise your magnets will repel!