If you have more framed pictures than room to display them, consider installing a gallery rail on your wall. The rail acts as a low-profile shelf for your pictures. You can install a rail on any wall. In fact, you might want to install two rails, one above the other. Materials
Measuring tape
Level
Hammer
Nail set
Finish nails
3/4" brads
Drill, with drill bits
Miter saw
Wood stain
Paintbrush
Decorative molding
2" x 2" board
Wood putty
Safety glasses
- Decide how wide you want your picture rail. Use a miter saw to cut a 2" by 2" board and a piece of decorative trim to length. (If you've recently replaced the trim in your home, you can reuse the old trim on the picture rail.)
- Choose a location for the rail, and draw a level reference line on the wall. Most rails are about 52" from the floor, but you can set yours at any height.
- Locate and mark the studs behind the wall.
- Dry-fit the rail, and transfer the stud markings to the rail (figure A).
- Drill pilot holes in the rail at the stud marks.
- Lightly sand the rail to remove splinters and rough edges. Wipe off any dust with a tack cloth or damp rag.
- Use a rag or brush to apply wood stain to the rail and trim. Allow the stain to dry. (Instead of staining the rail, consider painting it to match the trim in your house.)
- Use 16-penny finish nails to attach the rail to the wall. Make sure the nails go into the studs.
- Use 3/4" brads to attach the trim to the front of the rail. The top of the trim should be 1/4" above the rail to create a lip. For added support, apply wood glue to the trim before attaching it to the rail.
- Set the brads, and fill any holes with wood putty.
- Arrange your gallery of pictures on the rail (figure B).
RESOURCES :
Minwax® Company
Minwax Company (full name: The Thompson Minwax Company)
Website: www.minwax.com
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