Metal frame for a sublimated photo

Jewelry Discussion
1

Hi everyone!

I have a project that I’m developing which is making a metal frame for a picture made entirely out of metal (copper). Im going to sublimate the picture itself into a separate metal plate that will be hold on to the back of the frame.

I’m having a hard time deciding which gauge to use for this project. I’m thinking 20 gauge, but I’m not completely sure it will be sturdy for this.

There will be a lot of cutting, riveting and etching on the frame, the etched elements would be riveted (I don’t plan on soldering for this project). It is for a day of the dead mexican celebration and I’m planning on making it very ornate all around the frame, with the theme in mind. I’m thinking there will be more cutting than actual elements that are riveted.

Should I use an 18 gauge instead? Also, do you know of a good lacquer or enamel to protect sublimated pieces of metal? Thank you in advance for your help.

Flor

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How big will the frame be when you are done?

3

Hi,

I am pondering this…will there also be a back plate?

julie

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the frame will be 6Wx8H with the picture being 3Wx5H. I’m thinking of leaving a 2 inch “tail” so I can bend it back as the stand for the frame but I’m not sure if 2 inches will be enough or expand it to 3 inches or 4.

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PXL_20241020_072126963.MP1749×3205 186 KB

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Hi Julie!

I’m thinking of using a sort of decorative “stoppers” on the front and back and then riveting them to the picture to hold it in place.

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Check the weight of 18 and 20 gauge copper sheet at Rio or other metal suppliers. Do a /square in analysis to determine how much less it will weigh when you remove the 5X7. I suspect that they will both be pretty heavy and that either gauge will work, especially if you are adding other pieces to the frame that will reinforce it. You might want a wider base or add feet to it.
please post a picture when you are done.

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