Project description
I have a photograph that means a great deal to my family, and I want to give it a home that matches how special it is. Rather than buying something mass-produced from a shop, I am looking for a woodworker who can hand-carve a custom picture frame from solid wood, with a carved border pattern running around the edge and enough presence to become a piece of decor in its own right, not just a container for a photo.
The design I have in mind involves a repeating relief pattern along the outer edge - think vines, leaves, or a simple geometric motif - and I would like a small set of initials or a monogram carved discreetly into one of the lower corners. I am open to suggestions on wood species; I like the idea of walnut or oak for the warmth and grain, but I trust your judgment on what will carve cleanly and hold fine detail well over time. The frame needs to accommodate an 8x10 photograph, with enough rabbet depth for glass and a backing board, and mitred corners that stay tight where the carved pattern meets.
I want the finished piece to feel handmade in the best sense - visible tool marks are fine, even welcome, as long as the overall form stays symmetrical and the carving reads as crisp and deliberate rather than rough. Please send progress photos as you go, from rough layout to the finished carving, so I can approve the pattern before you commit to the final pass and the finish.
Requirements:
— Solid hardwood frame sized for an 8x10 photo, rabbet included
— Continuous carved border pattern running around the front face
— Small monogram or initials carved discreetly into one corner
— Natural oil or wax finish that shows the wood grain rather than hiding it
— Progress photos at each major stage before the final finishing pass
The design I have in mind involves a repeating relief pattern along the outer edge - think vines, leaves, or a simple geometric motif - and I would like a small set of initials or a monogram carved discreetly into one of the lower corners. I am open to suggestions on wood species; I like the idea of walnut or oak for the warmth and grain, but I trust your judgment on what will carve cleanly and hold fine detail well over time. The frame needs to accommodate an 8x10 photograph, with enough rabbet depth for glass and a backing board, and mitred corners that stay tight where the carved pattern meets.
I want the finished piece to feel handmade in the best sense - visible tool marks are fine, even welcome, as long as the overall form stays symmetrical and the carving reads as crisp and deliberate rather than rough. Please send progress photos as you go, from rough layout to the finished carving, so I can approve the pattern before you commit to the final pass and the finish.
Requirements:
— Solid hardwood frame sized for an 8x10 photo, rabbet included
— Continuous carved border pattern running around the front face
— Small monogram or initials carved discreetly into one corner
— Natural oil or wax finish that shows the wood grain rather than hiding it
— Progress photos at each major stage before the final finishing pass
Other / Miscellaneous Cash, Bank transfer
