DIY Frame for your Flat Screen TV.
By Danny Lipford
A decorative frame for a flat-panel wall-mounted TV is essentially a picture frame for the electronic device.
You begin creating it by measuring the dimensions of the television itself. The structural frame is made from 1-by stock. We’re using 1×6, but you can vary the board width depending on the depth of the TV and how much you want to cover.
The box will have mitered corners with inside dimensions that are 1/8 inch larger than the outside dimensions of the TV, so be sure to make your measurements to the short point of the miter cuts. The box is assembled on a flat surface with glue and finish nails.
Next, cut the decorative molding which will be attached to the front of the frame. To leave the 1/8-in. reveal where the molding overlaps the frame, so we’re adding twice that amount—or 1/4 inch—to the dimensions we cut. These miter cuts are made on the flat side of the molding so the pieces create the picture-frame look when they all go together. The frame can be fastened to the box with finish nails.
Once the frame is complete, Stain or paint the frame and box unit with whatever style best matches your décor. We chose a dry brush faux finish similar to the fireplace mantel near the TV.
After that, apply self-adhesive felt strips on the inside of the frame box to protect the TV from scratches.
Apply an elastic band attached with eye hooks across the back to prevent the frame from sliding off the front of the set.
The result is a TV that’s a decorative accessory and not just an electronic eyesore.
Side Note
Today’s Homeowner
Danny Lipford is a leading home-improvement expert, friend of Extreme How-To and fellow Alabama resident. He hosts an Emmy-nominated, weekly, nationally syndicated TV show, Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which is now in its 17th season on over 200 stations nationwide. In 2009, he became the hose of the weekly, nationally syndicated Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford radio show. And on top of all these activities, Danny has contributed this cool carpentry project to the latest issue of EHT. Keep up with all of Danny Lip ford’s home improvement tips and techniques at www.todayshomeowner.com
