Ready to Assemble Help and Tutorials

Written Assembly Instructions

Prefer written steps? Follow these directions to assemble either a traditional or floater frame using dovetail connectors and wood glue.

Your frame will arrive in four pieces, precision-cut at the proper angle, with dovetail notches on the back side of each piece.

Lay all four pieces flat in the shape of your frame. For frames with different height and width, make sure the same lengths are parallel with each other.

Locate the plastic dovetail plugs provided with your frame. Depending on the frame type, there may be different lengths of plugs for different notches.

Apply a small bead of wood glue on one mitered edge, then connect the adjoining leg by gently inserting the plastic plug into the dovetail notch. The plugs will require a bit of pressure—tapping lightly with a small hammer may be necessary.

Repeat these steps until the frame is fully assembled. Gently flip the frame over so it lies flat on its back. Ensure corners are tight and even, then wipe off any excess glue that may have squeezed out.

Tip for floater frames: Some customers find it easier to assemble one corner at a time—letting each glued corner dry before moving to the next—to ensure perfect alignment.

Allow the glued frame to set for at least one hour. When fully cured, the glue provides the main structural strength of the assembly; the dovetail plugs primarily serve to align the corners during construction.