How to create a wooden picture frame with LED backlighting

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by

Bernardo Palos
in

Creating a wooden picture frame with LED backlighting is a fun and practical DIY project. Here’s how you can make one step-by-step:

Materials Needed:

  • Wooden frame (pre-made or raw wood)
  • LED strip lights (with adhesive backing)
  • Power source (e.g., a USB adapter or battery pack for LEDs)
  • Saw (if you’re cutting your own wood)
  • Wood glue
  • Nail gun or hammer and nails
  • Measuring tape
  • Screwdriver
  • Wire clips or cable ties
  • Drill and small drill bit (for wiring holes)
  • Wood stain or paint (optional)
  • Backboard (like cardboard or thin plywood)

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Choose Your Frame Size
    Decide on the size of the picture frame. Measure the dimensions of the artwork or photo you want to display, and add a bit of extra space around the edges for the LEDs and the frame’s border.

  2. Cut the Wood Pieces for the Frame
    If you’re using raw wood, measure and cut four pieces for the frame: two for the length and two for the width. Ensure the corners are at 90-degree angles for a clean fit. You can use a miter saw for precision.

  3. Assemble the Frame
    Apply wood glue to the corners of the frame and clamp them together. Let it dry for about an hour. Once dry, reinforce the corners with nails or screws for added stability.

  4. Add the Backing
    Cut a piece of thin plywood or cardboard to fit the back of the frame. Attach it using wood glue or small nails. This will hold the picture in place.

  5. Prepare the LED Strips
    Cut the LED strips to the length of the inside perimeter of the frame. These strips often come with an adhesive backing, making them easy to stick into place. If the LED strips need trimming, use the designated cut lines on the strip.

  6. Install the LED Strips
    Starting at one corner of the frame, peel off the backing from the LED strip and stick it around the inside perimeter of the frame. Make sure the LEDs are facing towards the back, where they will cast light onto the wall or the picture itself.

  7. Wire the LEDs
    If your LED strip has a connector for a power supply, make sure to leave enough slack in the wire to connect it. You may need to drill a small hole at the back of the frame to allow the wire to exit. Use a power supply that matches the LED strip voltage (USB adapters work well for most LED strips).

  8. Test the LEDs
    Before finalizing everything, plug in your LED strip to test if it works. Adjust the placement if needed to ensure the lights shine evenly.

  9. Secure the Power Source
    If you’re using a USB power supply, you can either mount it on the back of the frame or use a battery pack if you prefer a cordless solution. Use clips or cable ties to neatly secure any excess wiring at the back.

  10. Finishing Touches
    If you’d like, you can stain or paint the wooden frame to your liking. Allow the frame to dry completely before hanging.

  11. Mounting and Display
    If you’re hanging the frame, you can attach a hanging wire to the back. Alternatively, use a stand for tabletop display. Once mounted or placed, plug in your LED strip and enjoy the illuminated effect!

Additional Tips:

  • Use RGB LED strips for color-changing effects.
  • Make sure to hide the wiring neatly at the back of the frame to keep it tidy.
  • For extra brightness, consider using LED strips with a higher lumens rating.
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