Here's my attempt at a guide to assembling frames. All photos are linked to a larger image if you click on them.

1) The gear:


What we have here, from left to right is:
  • Mallet
    Handy for knocking tight fitting parts together.
  • Hammer
  • Foundation
  • Gimp Pins
    That's what they're called, honest.
  • Top Bar
  • 2x Side Bars
  • 2x bottom bars
  • Wedge, removed from top bar
  • Can of beer (optional)


1) The wedge is normally attached to the Top Bar and should be removed.

2) Attach the side bars to the Top Bar. Make sure the foundation Groove faces inside and nail a gimp pin on each side. (On Hoffman frames you can leave out the nail on the angled side if you wish):



3) With the Side Bars attached, add one bottom bar on the opposite side to where the wedge was removed:


4) Nail the bottom bar in place:

(before inserting the foundation it can be prudent to only nail one side so that you can adjust the spacing to ensure a good fit of foundation to frame).

5) Bend the wire loops on the foundation sheet over and insert the sheet into the frame using the grooves:



6) Insert the wedge into the top of the frame and nail so that the nails are between the foundation wire loops, this will ensure that the foundation cannot slip out of the frame.:


7) Add the second Bottom Bar and nail into place:



8) Drink the beer.