Are you looking to add some architectural character to your home without breaking the bank? Look no further than picture frame wainscoting!
This DIY project is a relatively inexpensive and high-impact way to add some texture and style to your walls. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a weekend warrior, installing picture frame wainscoting is a project that can be completed in just a few days.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of measuring, marking, and installing your own picture frame wainscoting. So grab your tools and let’s get started!
How To Install Picture Frame Wainscoting
Step 1: Measure and Mark
The first step in installing picture frame wainscoting is to measure and mark the placement of your frames on the wall. You can purchase pre-made frames from your local hardware store or make your own. The key to determining the size of your frames is to select a consistent spacing. Typically, picture frame moulding frames are spaced out 3” to 4”.
Using a scrap piece of 1×4, trace out the spacings and placement for the frames. While the height of each frame will be the same for each wall, the width will differ depending on the length of the wall and the number of picture frames you intend on using.
Within the two outer spacing, determine the width of each frame by taking the distance between them and subtracting the spacing between each frame. Then divide this number by the total number of frames you wish to have. This will be the width of each frame.
Step 2: Cut and Install
Once you have determined the size and placement of your frames, it’s time to cut and install them. Using a cross-line laser level, mark all of the corners using a tape measure and the laser lines as a guide. You can use a pencil to make your marks, but painter’s tape works better on darker walls.
Start with the lower right picture frame and work your way around the room. Use a saw to cut your frames to size and attach them to the wall using finishing nails or adhesive. Be sure to use a level to ensure that each frame is straight.
Step 3: Caulk and Paint
After all of your frames are installed, it’s time to caulk and paint. Use caulk to fill in any gaps between the frames and the wall. Once the caulk is dry, sand it down until it’s smooth.
Finally, paint your frames with a color that complements your room’s decor. You can choose to paint them all one color or use different colors for each frame for a more eclectic look.
Materials Needed
To install picture frame wainscoting, you will need the following materials:
– Picture frame moulding: You can purchase pre-made frames from your local hardware store or make your own. The amount needed will depend on the size of the space or room.
– Liquid nails: This adhesive will be used to attach the frames to the wall.
– Caulk: You will need caulk to fill in any gaps between the frames and the wall.
– Nail gun and nails: A nail gun and 1-1/4” finish nails are recommended, although a hammer and finish nails can also be used.
– Paint: Choose a color that complements your room’s decor.
– Sandpaper: You will need sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots in the caulk.
Optional materials include a cross-line laser level for precise measurements and a saw for cutting the frames to size. If you are using finishing nails, you will also need a hammer. Overall, the cost of supplies for this project can vary depending on the materials you choose, but it can be an affordable DIY project compared to other home improvement projects.
Measuring And Marking Your Walls
Before you start installing your picture frame wainscoting, it’s important to measure and mark your walls. This will ensure that your frames are evenly spaced and properly aligned.
To begin, use a scrap piece of 1×4 to trace out the placement of your frames. Determine the spacing between each frame and the distance between the outer frames. Then, using these measurements, calculate the width of each frame.
Once you have determined the size and placement of your frames, use a cross-line laser level to mark all of the corners using a tape measure and the laser lines as a guide. If your walls are dark, painter’s tape works better than a pencil for making marks.
Start with the lower right picture frame and work your way around the room, using a saw to cut your frames to size and attaching them to the wall using finishing nails or adhesive. Be sure to use a level to ensure that each frame is straight.
After all of your frames are installed, use caulk to fill in any gaps between the frames and the wall. Once the caulk is dry, sand it down until it’s smooth. Finally, paint your frames with a color that complements your room’s decor.
Cutting Your Molding
Cutting your molding is a crucial step in installing picture frame wainscoting. You will need two identical vertical pieces and two identical horizontal pieces with the corners cut at a 45-degree angle, so they fit together to create a box. This angle is a standard setting on a miter saw (or miter box if a hand saw is being used).
Before cutting your molding, double-check your measurements to ensure that the pieces will fit together properly. Dry fit the molding by positioning the pieces on the wall to ensure a proper fit. Make adjustments if necessary.
Once you have confirmed that the pieces are fitting properly, it’s time to cut your molding. Use a mitre box and saw to cut the molding. Because picture frame moldings are usually small, a mitre box and saw should be sufficient. However, if you are using larger moldings, an electric saw may be necessary.
After measuring out the moldings, cut each one on 45-degree angles. This angle will ensure that the corners fit together seamlessly. Aaron used a brad nailer to install the moldings, but you could also use finishing nails and hammer or glue to attach them to the wall.
You can see how using a laser level makes this job very easy to install! In the photo below you can see how there are little holes now from where the nail was installed that need to be filled. You’ll also need to fill the tiny gap where the corners meet. You’ll need to use drywall mud or joint compound after to fill these holes corners.
Once the putty is dry, sand down with a fine sanding sponge for a smooth finish. You may need to do another coat of mud if you can still see the cracks or holes. If you mud again, wait to dry and sand again for a smooth finish.
Lastly, fill all along the edges of the trim (both sides) with moulding and trim sealant. Run a very thin bead along the edges and using an edging tool (or your finger), wipe away the excess. This stuff dries very quick so make sure to run a bead down one side at a time then smooth it out before moving on. Also, cut a very small hole at the top as you only need a very thin bead along the trim.
Follow the directions for drying time; this molding and trim sealant only takes 30 minutes to dry. Now paint the trim and you are done! Note: Some silicones/sealants are NOT paintable so make sure to buy the correct one.
Installing The Top Rail
The top rail is an important component of picture frame wainscoting, as it provides a finished look to the top of the frames. To install the top rail, first, dry fit the molding by positioning pieces on the wall to ensure a proper fit. Make adjustments if necessary. Once pieces are fitting properly, install the top, horizontal piece first.
Use a spacer between the molding and chair rail and on the right and left side to determine proper placement. Double check with a level to ensure that the top rail is straight. Affix it to the wall using a nail gun and finishing nails.
Continue around the room, installing each piece in the same manner. Since the third and fourth pieces complete the box, dry fit them before installing. Once all of your frames are installed, use caulk to fill in any gaps between the frames and the wall. Finally, paint your frames with a color that complements your room’s decor.
Installing The Vertical Pieces
Now that you have marked and installed the horizontal pieces, it’s time to install the vertical pieces. Start by measuring the height of each frame and cut the vertical pieces to size. Use a saw to cut the pieces at a 45-degree angle, making sure to “sneak up on the cut” by cutting them a little long and shaving off a bit until you get the exact measurement.
Dry-fit the pieces together to ensure they fit correctly before installing them on the wall. Once you’re satisfied with the fit, attach them to the wall using finishing nails or adhesive. Use a level to ensure that each piece is straight.
After all of your vertical pieces are installed, it’s time to fill in any nail holes or gaps with caulk. Allow the caulk to dry completely before sanding it down until it’s smooth. Finally, paint your frames with a color that complements your room’s decor.
By following these simple steps, you can easily install picture frame wainscoting in your dining room or any room in your home. Not only does it add a touch of elegance and sophistication, but it’s also an affordable DIY project that anyone can do.
Installing The Bottom Rail
One important aspect of installing picture frame wainscoting is installing the bottom rail. The bottom rail is a horizontal piece of moulding that connects all of the vertical frames together at the bottom.
To install the bottom rail, measure the length of the wall where you want to install it. Cut a piece of base cap moulding to this length using a saw. Then, use finishing nails or adhesive to attach the bottom rail to the wall at the desired height.
Be sure to use a level to ensure that the bottom rail is straight. If you have an uneven floor, you may need to adjust the height of the bottom rail slightly to compensate.
Once the bottom rail is installed, you can begin installing the vertical frames above it. Use the same process as before, measuring and marking the placement of each frame and attaching them to the wall with finishing nails or adhesive.
After all of your frames are installed, use caulk to fill in any gaps between the frames and the bottom rail. Sand down any excess caulk until it’s smooth. Then, paint your frames with a color that complements your room’s decor.
By following these steps, you can easily install picture frame wainscoting in your home and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any room.