Discover how to frame a Staples engineer print for a budget art piece
Tackling sizable blank wall areas can be tricky; I always seek economical ways to enhance a room's style affordably
Some prior projects that address this large wall emptiness include:
- A gallery arrangement such as this one
- Utilizing free digital art for your home decor from this extensive selection
- And affixing big prints onto foam core board
Today's endeavor involves framing a substantial engineering print sourced from Staples
I have observed fellow bloggers employ this method for some time, but recently tried it myself
All the necessary specifics are below if you wish to try this too:
GUIDE TO FRAMING AN ENGINEER PRINT
Note: This post includes affiliate links, meaning a small commission benefits me at no extra cost to you if you buy something through a link.
Understanding what an engineer print is
Before the instructions, I must clarify what an engineer print entails. Fundamentally, it is a copy center reproduction (like Staples or Office Depot) of a digital image, originally intended for line drawings (such as blueprints) and available in large dimensions: 18 x24; 24×36; and 36×48.
It's important to remember that the paper is delicate similar to standard printer paper. While it traditionally appeared only in black and white, my research recently revealed it is also available in color.
The print quality of these engineer prints is excellent, and the cost is remarkably low; the size I utilized only cost $2!
Methods and locations for obtaining an engineer print
There are two avenues for getting an engineer print printed:
- Submit your order online to your nearby copy & print center (like Staples blueprints or Office Depot) and collect it when ready.
- Save your print onto a memory stick and bring it to your local print shop for processing.
I opted for the second approach because having the associate's help with large printing tasks like this is beneficial; they can verify the image resolution is sufficient for clarity and that scaling is accurate for printing.
**Important Update: Print shops may no longer print only line drawings as engineer prints since my initial post. Please contact the print shop first to confirm they can print images as engineer prints (in color or black & white).**
Steps to mount an engineer print
Materials required:
- Engineer Print (The specific size used was 24X36)
- A 1/2″ Mdf board, sized to finished dimensions (this specific piece measured 22×34)
- Scotch Tape
- Scissors
- Clear Packing Tape
- A 1×2 unfinished pine board intended for the frame
- Varathane Wood Stain
- Brad Nailer, utilizing 1 1/2 inch brads
- Picture Hanger Kit
Instructions for Securing the Engineer Print
First, position the print face down on a table, then lay the mdf board directly on top.
Ensure the board is perfectly centered over the print so that all edges can fold up uniformly.
Next, secure the corners
I approached this task much like an upholstery job, using similar techniques. Since the corners present the most difficulty, I trimmed them so they would fold cleanly without creating lumps.
Then, fold the edges around the perimeter and temporarily secure them with scotch tape.
Mirroring upholstery work, I folded the edges tightly (but with care so as not to damage the paper) and used tape to hold the paper down. I started by folding the center of each side before moving to the corners.
Subsequently, affix the edges using clear packing tape.
Once the edges are folded and temporarily held with scotch tape, the clear packing tape serves as the final step, ensuring the print is firmly bonded to the board.
*A heads-up: Some individuals prefer using spray adhesive to mount engineer prints. Nevertheless, feedback on this method varies regarding its long-term performance; some noted paper bubbling, while others observed it detaching over time.
Framing Your Mounted Engineer Print
Adding a frame truly completes this wonderful project!
First, measure the finished print board, then cut two frame sections for the sides, one for the top, and one for the bottom.
The side pieces must match the board's exact size (22 inches in this instance), whereas the top and bottom pieces should act as 'caps,' measuring the board's length plus the combined width of the two side frame pieces. My husband handles this step for me, always dry-fitting the components first to precisely measure and mark the required cuts.
After cutting, smooth the rough edges with sandpaper and apply your preferred wood stain color. Allow the stain to dry completely before attaching it to the print, otherwise, it risks smudging onto the paper. (This is based on my own experience.)
Finally, fasten the frame to the mdf board using a brad nail gun.
Ensure the edges align precisely when driving the nails vertically. Secure the side pieces initially, followed by the base, and conclude with the top.
I shared this project via a Facebook Live session; for further insights on frame assembly, please view that video.
Next, affix a hanging mechanism to the rear.
We utilized the cord from a picture hanging kit (such as this) by securing it between two screws on the sides.
And there it is! A beautiful, substantial piece of art crafted from your personal print!
This specific print now graces my new office area.
Having completed this project, I have several concepts for future creations. Have you ever incorporated an engineer print into your home styling?
