The Framers Forum

Hi guys don’t know why I take on awkward jobs guess I’m just a glutton for punishment . I need some advice on the best way to join this frame ie: pin, biscuit, dowels, it’s the first time I’ve ever tackled anything like this so any advice would be welcome,it will be made with Wessex PW147 an oak moulding approx 37x28mm and the glass cut by a specialist firm
Here’s hoping you can help. Many thanks in advance

Hi Ricky,

I would nail the corner and glue. There are lots of joints you could do like a mortice and tenon or a half lap, or use a dowel or biscuit, but the nails will be positioned on the inside of the frame under the rebate so as long as you get them flush, you don't need to fill etc.

Just did quick scribble to show where i mean
All glues will hold it, i prefer titebond 2, but any decent glue will hold it tight. A mitre clamp will help if you have one.

Like i said, lots of options, but when possible, i think keeping it simple is easier

It might help to install a sub-frame to add extra support to the unconventional top wdge of the frame. Don't forget to take so photos to show other customers, it should be very good for your street credibility and kudos.

The frame is straightforward enough. A good idea would be to cut the back first and use it as a template and offer up
the frame to it as you build.

Good luck with the glass. It's a good idea to get the internal corners radiused as much as possible and round off the inside of the
frame corners to suit. A sharp corner on the inside will be a stress point and one cross look will crack it.

An interesting project. I look forward to seeing the finished result.

I believe that Wessex have previously cut glass to odd shapes so may be able to assist

FIRST.
Wait until yo get the glass cut, then cut the frame to fit the glass, I would use underpins, if you are worried about the clamps making marks on the moulding, just use a offcut of square oak as a sacrificial bit between the clamps and the moulding, it's what I do when joining spacers and slips.
if cutting the moulding on the Morse, then again when cutting the reverse angles, use a sacrificial bit of wood under the rebate to support it

Good luck, lets see photos of the finished frame

Hi guys,Thanks for all the advice on this frame due to all the Xmas work I had I’ve only just around to finishing first stage of the frame, it’s off to the speciality glaziers now too have the glass fitted then back to me for finishing off

Ricky, thanks for posting a photo - nice job

Good job the frame was no bigger otherwise you would not have had room for it on you bench

Peter.

Hi Ricky,

I don't think that is an easy thing to do and I'm not sure that I would have taken that one on myself. You are a brave man and that's an impressive execution of a difficult job.

Hey Ricky!!!

That's a great job, how did you join the inner corners on the little sticky up bit?

Lovely job, Ricky. I also salute your bravery (we need an emoticon for that! )

I wonder how they'll hang it.

Finished item,
personally not to keen on floating photos, would have been much better double mounted with v grooves,
but its what the customer wanted.

Neat job Ricky

Well executed, but don't know why the customer picked that shape.

"don't know why the customer picked that shape" cos' the customer's always right

Your customers might be always right, others are often a PITA.

Hi Mark When I said "customers always right" it was with tongue in cheek I did not expect anyone to take me seriously

Peter.