DIY Wooden Picture Frames for a Scandinavian Gallery Wall

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Creating a gallery wall with wooden picture frames is a simple, affordable way to add Scandinavian charm to your home. Known for its minimalism and natural aesthetic, Scandinavian decor emphasizes clean lines, neutral colors, and the use of organic materials. DIY wooden picture frames offer a warm, personal touch to your gallery wall while keeping costs low. Here’s your complete guide to making wooden frames that fit perfectly into a Scandinavian-inspired gallery wall.

A Scandinavian gallery wall focuses on simplicity and harmony. Rather than overwhelming the space, it aims to create a balanced display of art, photographs, and natural elements that add subtle warmth to a room. Key characteristics of a Scandinavian gallery wall include:

  • Neutral color palettes with touches of wood and soft whites.
  • Clean, simple frames that highlight the artwork without overpowering it.
  • Balanced layout with intentional spacing to maintain a light, airy look.

Why DIY Wooden Frames are Perfect for Scandinavian Decor

DIY wooden frames allow for customization that suits the Scandinavian aesthetic:

  • Natural wood tones add warmth and texture.
  • Minimalist design keeps the focus on the artwork.
  • Cost-effective option compared to store-bought frames.
  • Personalized touch that can reflect your style and creativity.

A Scandinavian gallery wall can add depth and personality to your space while keeping it simple and understated. Benefits include:

  • Enhanced visual interest without adding clutter.
  • Versatile styling options, perfect for small or large spaces.
  • Ease of customization as you can add, replace, or rearrange pieces over time.
  • Adaptability: Works well in living rooms, bedrooms, hallways, and even offices.

Scandinavian decor embraces muted tones, nature-inspired prints, black-and-white photography, and minimalist art. Choose a mix of prints and photos that complement each other, sticking to a cohesive color palette.

2. Selecting the Right Wood for Frames

Types of Wood Suitable for DIY Frames

When choosing wood for frames, select types that are sturdy yet easy to work with:

  • Pine: Lightweight, affordable, and easy to cut, pine is a great option for beginners.
  • Oak: Durable and has a beautiful grain; adds warmth but is slightly harder to cut.
  • Cedar: A softer wood with a lovely natural color and fine grain, perfect for smaller frames.
  • Birch: Light-colored with a fine, even texture, ideal for a clean, modern look.

Embracing Natural Wood Tones

Natural wood tones bring warmth and authenticity to a Scandinavian gallery wall. For a true Nordic look, opt for:

  • Light finishes to maintain a natural look.
  • Raw or untreated wood for a rustic, minimalist feel.
  • Soft stains to bring out the wood’s grain without darkening it too much.

Benefits of Using Reclaimed or Sustainable Wood

Choosing reclaimed wood aligns with the Scandinavian design’s eco-friendly principles. Reclaimed wood:

  • Reduces waste and environmental impact.
  • Adds unique character through natural textures and wear.
  • Offers a rustic look that complements Scandinavian aesthetics.

Tools and Materials Needed for Building Wooden Frames

Gather these materials for the project:

  • Wood strips (cut to the size of your artwork).
  • Miter saw or hand saw for precise cuts.
  • Sandpaper to smooth edges.
  • Wood glue and clamps for securing corners.
  • Finish nails or staples for added strength.
  • Optional: Clear or matte wood finish to protect the wood and enhance its color.
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3. Measuring and Cutting the Wood for Frames

Determining Frame Size and Measurements

To create the perfect frame size:

  1. Measure the width and height of your artwork.
  2. Add desired border width to these measurements (e.g., 1 inch on each side).
  3. Use these dimensions to cut the wood strips, ensuring precise measurements.

Using a Miter Saw for Clean, Angled Cuts

Frames require angled cuts at 45 degrees for seamless corners. Use a miter saw for this:

  • Set the miter saw to a 45-degree angle for each cut.
  • Cut two pieces for the width and two for the height of the frame, aligning the angles so they fit together to form corners.
  • Double-check measurements before cutting to ensure a tight fit.

Sanding for a Smooth Finish

After cutting the wood:

  • Sand each piece with fine-grit sandpaper to remove rough edges and splinters.
  • Focus on the corners to ensure they fit snugly together without gaps.
  • Wipe down each piece with a cloth to remove dust before assembling.

Tips for Ensuring Accurate Measurements

  • Measure twice, cut once: Precision is key for frames to fit together properly.
  • Use a carpenter’s square to verify right angles and double-check that the lengths match up.
  • Label each piece (top, bottom, sides) to keep track of where each one belongs.

4. Assembling the Frame

Gluing the Frame Corners

To assemble the frame:

  1. Apply wood glue to the mitered edges of each corner.
  2. Press the corners together and hold them in place.
  3. Use clamps to secure the corners and let the glue dry according to the product instructions.

Reinforcing with Nails or Staples

For added durability, secure the corners with small nails or staples:

  • Use finishing nails or staples on the back side of the frame to avoid visibility.
  • Drive the nails carefully to prevent splitting the wood.
  • If using staples, ensure they’re short enough not to penetrate through the front of the frame.

Adding a Backing for the Artwork

For framed photos or prints:

  • Cut a piece of cardboard or plywood to the exact size of the frame opening.
  • Insert the artwork, followed by the backing, to keep everything secure.
  • Secure the backing with additional nails or tacks if necessary.

Optional: Applying a Wood Finish

A clear or matte finish can help protect the wood and enhance its color without overpowering the Scandinavian style:

  • Use a soft cloth or brush to apply a clear wood finish.
  • Allow the finish to dry thoroughly before handling.
  • If you prefer a raw wood look, skip this step for a completely natural appearance.

5. Mounting Artwork in the Frame

Choosing Mounting Materials

Scandinavian decor favors simplicity, so opt for minimalistic mounting methods:

  • Matting: Use a neutral-colored mat to add a border around the artwork, creating a polished look.
  • No Glass: For a softer, natural look, consider framing artwork without glass, especially if you’re using photography prints or canvas.
  • Hanging Clips: For a modern touch, use clips to hold the art in place.

Attaching the Artwork to the Backing

To secure the artwork:

  1. Position the print or photo on the backing.
  2. Use double-sided tape or photo corners to secure the artwork, ensuring it doesn’t shift.
  3. Carefully place the backing with the artwork into the frame and secure with clips or small nails.

Installing Hanging Hardware

Attach D-rings or sawtooth hangers to the back of the frame:

  • Position two D-rings on opposite sides of the frame for balanced hanging.
  • If using a sawtooth hanger, center it on the top edge of the frame.
  • Consider using wire for heavier frames to provide additional stability.

Tips for Framing Different Types of Artwork

  • Photos: Use matting for a classic look and keep the focus on the image.
  • Illustrations and prints: Frame without glass for a matte finish and minimalist appearance.
  • Canvases: Opt for floating frames if you want the edges of the canvas to be visible.

A Scandinavian gallery wall is balanced, airy, and uncluttered. Some layout ideas include:

  • Grid Layout: Frames aligned in a grid for a clean, symmetrical look.
  • Asymmetrical Arrangement: Mix different frame sizes and place them in a visually balanced way.
  • Centered Focus: Arrange frames around a larger central piece, adding smaller frames around it.

Tips for Creating a Cohesive Look

To maintain a cohesive Scandinavian look:

  • Limit color palette: Stick to a neutral palette with occasional pops of muted colors.
  • Consistent Frame Style: Use matching wood tones or similar frame sizes to maintain harmony.
  • Minimalistic Approach: Avoid overloading the wall; leave some negative space around each frame.

Hanging the Frames at Eye Level

Position frames so the center of the artwork is at eye level, around 57–60 inches from the floor. If your gallery wall goes above a sofa or console, ensure there’s a comfortable gap between the top of the furniture and the frames.

Experimenting with Spacing

Play around with the spacing to see what feels right:

  • Tight Spacing: For a more unified look, space frames 2–3 inches apart.
  • Wide Spacing: Leave 4–6 inches between frames for a more airy, relaxed feel.

Your DIY wooden frames bring a natural, minimalist touch that perfectly complements a Scandinavian gallery wall. From planning the layout to crafting the frames, creating this gallery wall allows you to showcase personal memories, favorite artworks, or prints that reflect your style. Each handmade frame adds warmth and character, enhancing your home with Scandinavian simplicity and charm.

Embracing the Scandinavian Aesthetic in Your Home

With a Scandinavian gallery wall, your space becomes a serene, inviting environment that reflects your personality. Enjoy the warmth, simplicity, and calmness this gallery wall brings to your home!

1. What type of wood is best for DIY frames?

Pine and cedar are affordable, easy to work with, and have beautiful natural finishes.

2. Do I need glass for my picture frames?

Not necessarily; Scandinavian decor often frames photos without glass for a softer, minimalist look.

A grid layout is straightforward, creating a balanced look with simple alignment.

4. How do I secure the artwork in the frame?

Use photo corners, double-sided tape, or small clips to keep artwork in place without damaging it.

Aim for eye level, about 57–60 inches from the floor, for the most visually pleasing height.

6. Can I use reclaimed wood for frames?

Yes! Reclaimed wood adds character and is eco-friendly, aligning well with Scandinavian values.

7. What finishes work best for Scandinavian-style frames?

Clear or matte finishes maintain the wood’s natural color and texture, perfect for Scandinavian decor.

8. How much space should I leave between frames?

2–3 inches creates a unified look, while 4–6 inches allows for more breathing room.

Yes, mixing sizes can create visual interest; just ensure a balanced overall layout.

10. Do I need special tools to make frames?

A miter saw, sandpaper, wood glue, and nails are the main tools needed for DIY wooden frames.

Enjoy crafting and personalizing your beautiful Scandinavian gallery wall!