If you purchased picture frames in a retail store or online,you may need to assembly them yourself. Fortunately, assembling metal frames is one of the easiest task in framing. The manufacturers have really though it through. This page provides full instructions on how to assemble metal frames.

These instructions have been developed specifically for Nielsen Bainbridge metal frames. Other metal frames will have similar, if not identical assembly procedures. However, if you find that these instructions do not make sense for the metal frames you have purchased, please consult the retailer or the manufacturer directly. The Picture Frame Guys only sells Nielsen Bainbridge frames so these instructions will apply to all metal picture frames purchased on this site.

Tools required: Screw Driver, flat, hard and clean working surface.

Warning: Mitered corners of metal frames can be sharp. Also, framing glass or acrylic (plexiglas) can also sharp. The use of protective gloves is strongly recommended.

 

Step 1: Prepare the working surface by wiping it down and removing any dirt or oils. Kitchen counter-tops or dining room tables make great work surfaces.

 

Step 2:  Metal frames are side-loaded, meaning that  the artwork is slid into the molding after three sides are assembled. Start by selecting the section that will be the bottom of the frame and place it face-down on the work surface.

 

Step 3: Attach the two angled plates to each side of the bottom section. The picture to the right shows these two angled plates. One is smooth and the other has two small screws.

Step 4:  The angled plates are secured into the frame by 1) placing the plates on top of each other, 2) inserting them into the frame’s groove and 3) tightening the screw. The smooth plate should underneath the plate that has screws. The picture to the right shows how the angled brackets are placed inside the grooves.

 

Step 5: Attach the sides to the bottom section. This is done by sliding each side molding into the bottom section and tightening the screws. The result is a U-shaped frame that is missing it’s top potion.

 

Step 6: From the top of the frame, insert the art package and attach the top piece. By using remaining angled plates. The art package is the artwork, matting, glazing, mounting board, etc..

 

Step 7: With the frame still facing down, secure the artwork by install in the spring clips as shown in the picture below.  Do not hesitate to press the springs clips with the  needed pressure to flatten them enough to fit in between the backing board and the metal frame.

 

Step 8: Install the hanging clips about 1/3 from the top of the frame. This is done by tightening the small screw in each of the hanging clips

Step 9: Attach the hanging wire  to the two hanging clips. Also, attach the two adhesive bumpers to the bottom corners to the frame. Y our frame is not ready for hanging.

We are working on adding pictures and a PDF Download to this page.

If you would like to purchase either metal or wood picture frames, please visit our home page or go directly to our wood picture frames or metal picture frames sections.