This project was built and designed by Mark from Gunflint Designs. It features a walnut picture frame accented with a cherry inlay, offering a refined and classic presentation for your favorite photos or prints.
Combining contrasting woods is a great way to elevate a simple design. This frame is both functional and decorative, with clean joinery and thoughtful detail throughout.
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Starting with Walnut
Mark begins with rough-sawn black walnut, cutting the boards down to workable lengths using a radial arm saw. A jointer is then used to flatten one face and edge, followed by the planer to create two parallel surfaces.
Once three sides are square, the boards are ripped to their final width using a table saw. This careful preparation helps ensure clean, precise joinery in the final build.
Adding the Cherry Inlay
With the walnut ready, Mark moves to the router table to cut a groove along the face of each frame piece. This groove will later hold the cherry inlay strip, adding a decorative touch to the frame.
A second pass at the router creates a rabbet on the back side of each piece to accommodate the glass and artwork. These steps give the frame both form and function.
Cherry strips are ripped from scrap stock, then glued into the inlay grooves. The color variation of the cherry adds contrast, and each strip is cut for a snug fit.
Refining and Shaping the Frame
After the glue sets, the frame pieces are sanded using a drum sander to bring the inlay flush with the walnut. This creates a seamless surface and makes the inlay look like part of the original board.
To soften the inner edge of the frame, a chamfer is added with a router. This small detail draws attention to the artwork and gives the frame a more finished appearance.
Cutting the Miters
Mark cuts 45-degree miters on each frame end, starting with one side and then carefully measuring for the opposing cut. Clean miters are essential for a tight fit and a professional result.
Dry fitting all four corners before gluing helps ensure everything aligns properly. Any gaps or misalignment can be corrected before the adhesive is applied.
Gluing the Frame
To assemble the frame, Mark applies glue and works from the back side. He marks each joint to ensure orientation is correct and uses spring-loaded corner clamps to hold the assembly together.
This approach keeps the front face flat while the glue cures. The clamps provide consistent pressure, helping to avoid movement during drying.
Smoothing Imperfections
Any visible cracks or small gaps are filled with a mixture of epoxy and fine walnut sawdust. Once cured, the filler is sanded flush with the surrounding wood.
This technique blends imperfections into the grain and reinforces the joint. It’s a simple fix that keeps the frame looking clean and polished.
Finishing the Frame
After branding the back of the frame, Mark applies tongue oil to enhance the grain and protect the wood. Several coats are wiped on, with drying time and light buffing in between.
The oil gives the walnut a deep, natural look while keeping the surface smooth to the touch. It’s a low-sheen finish that fits the style of the piece.
Installing Hardware
Once the frame is finished, mounting hardware is installed on the back. Pilot holes are drilled for brass hangers, and a picture wire is added to support the frame on the wall.
Mark uses UV-resistant plexiglass to protect the print without adding weight. The hardware is rated to hold well over the eight-pound frame for peace of mind.
Displaying the Final Piece
The completed frame holds a sunrise photo taken from a nearby mountain. Seeing the print framed in walnut and cherry adds to the satisfaction of the finished project.
It’s a personal and well-crafted display piece that highlights the value of woodworking for custom projects. Whether used for photography or artwork, a frame like this is both useful and meaningful.
Want to See the Full Build?
You can see all of Mark’s plans here: https://www.gunflintdesigns.com/project-plans.