Putting together a metal floating frame involves connecting the frame rails at the corners, often using specialized corner hardware that slides into a groove on the frame's profile.
Metal floating frames offer a sleek, modern way to display artwork, particularly canvas pieces, creating the illusion that the art is floating within the frame without touching its edges. Assembling one typically requires joining four frame rails using corner connectors.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
Assembling your metal floating frame is a straightforward process once you understand the components and the connection method. While specific designs may vary, the general approach involves joining the four sides (rails) to form the rectangular or square structure.
Here are the typical steps:
- Gather Your Parts and Tools: You will need the four metal frame rails, the corner connecting hardware (usually angles or brackets and screws), and a screwdriver (often a Phillips head). Lay out your components on a clean, flat, protected surface to avoid scratching the frame parts.
- Prepare the Frame Rails: Ensure the ends of the frame rails are clean and free from debris.
- Assemble the Corner Connectors: Many metal frame systems use corner angles. As shown in assembly instructions, this often involves combining two angle pieces to create a connector unit. Down then place the corner angle with the screw over the thin corner angle. This makes a corner angle package.
- Insert the Corner Packages into the Rails: The metal frame rails typically have a groove along their outside edge profile. Slide the corner angle package into the groove that is on the outside edge of the frame. You will usually insert one package into the end of one frame rail.
- Join the Rails: Take another frame rail and align its end groove with the other side of the inserted corner package. Gently push the two rails together to form a corner. Repeat this process for all four corners, forming the full frame shape. You may find it easiest to assemble two L-shapes first and then connect them.
- Tighten the Screws: Once the corners are joined and the frame is in the correct shape, tighten the screws in the corner packages. These screws expand the connector within the groove, securely locking the two frame rails together at the corner. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can potentially strip the screw or damage the frame.
- Check for Squareness: Before fully tightening, ensure the frame is square. You can use a measuring tape to check diagonal measurements – they should be equal if the frame is square. Adjust the corners slightly if necessary before final tightening.
Essential Tips for Assembly
- Work on a Flat, Protected Surface: This prevents scratches on the metal finish and ensures the frame lies flat during assembly.
- Handle Parts Carefully: Metal frames can scratch relatively easily. Handle each piece with care.
- Don't Fully Tighten Until Square: Snugly fit the corners together but wait until the entire frame is assembled and square before giving the final tighten to the screws.
- Refer to Manufacturer Instructions: Always check any specific instructions included with your frame kit, as designs and assembly methods can vary.
By following these steps, including the method of creating and inserting the corner angle packages into the frame's outer groove, you can successfully assemble your metal floating frame.
