Carefully placed mirrors and picture frames can make a house a home. In Woodworker's Guide to Making Traditional Mirrors and Picture Frames, author John A. Nelson provides detailed and easy-to-follow instructions on 18 different patterns.

For more than two decades, the author recorded original antique "looking glass" patterns and frame designs throughout the New England, Pennsylvania and Ohio areas, dating from 1730 to 1885. The results of his efforts are the 18 specific plans found inside, but the reader can create any number of designs by slightly altering any of the plans.

Inside you'll find clear step-by-step instructions using tools commonly found in many home woodworking shops - plus tips on other specialized tools to help make your project a success. The finished pieces are very popular and sell well, and also make great gifts. You'll find lots of great projects inside, including:

12 Simple to Stylish Projects from the Experts at American Woodworker

When you walk into a house, one of the first things to catch the eye is the artwork and photographs displayed. These memories and momentos tell the story of the home and people who inhabit it. The frames that hold these treasures are a universal piece of decor. If you have something to frame or are looking for a special gift idea, why not make your own picture frames?

How to Make Picture Frames is a collection of some of the best framing projects published by American Woodworker magazine, the premier publication for woodworking. From simple frames to more complex and highly decorated ones, the experts at American Woodworker provide all the step-by-step instructions you need, along with the workshop tips, matting and mounting instructions, and plans for jigs that guarantee success. Some of the frames can even be made out of scrap stock in a day using nothing but basic poweer tools.

With the help of How to Make Picture Frames, no matter which project you select, you'll be creating something special to house that treasured memory for years to come.

All the Skills and Tools You Need to Get Started

This detailed guide covers the essentials the beginner needs to get started matting, mounting, and framing everything from works of art to personal mementos. It contains practical techniques and expert tips on choosing the proper mat board and frame; measuring and cutting single, double, or triple mats; safely mounting your materials; building frames; attaching hanging hardware; and placing the frame for display."

Easy to follow articles (with Illustrations) will teach you how to easily plan and make moldings, and how to build both flat and compound frames using only the table saw and table-mounted router.

848 Scale Illustrations in 29 standard frame sizes from 3" x 4" to 30" x 40" will show you exactly what your finished frame will look like before you start to build it.