We have a Samsung Fame TV in our living room, and everybody loves it. So we were thinking about getting another one for our basement. However, we already have a perfectly good TV for this room. After giving it some thought, we opted to save a little money and make our own DIY TV Frame for the existing TV. In this tutorial, I’m going to show you exactly how I did it.
Let’s get started!
Supplies
- 1×3 pine board
- Moulding (1×4 works great)
- Wood glue
- Finish nailer
- Gold spray paint
- Black paint
- Paintbrush
- Rag
- Stapler
- Corner clamp
- Elastic strap
- 1/2 inch wood screws
- Impact driver
Step-By-Step Guide to Building a DIY TV Frame
Measure and Cut
First things first, measure your TV’s dimensions from outer edge to outer edge. You’ll want to add an additional 1/4″ to ensure the frame doesn’t fit too snugly. Cut your 1×3 pine boards according to these measurements to create the back part of the frame. Cut the ends on 45 degree angles.
Then, determine how much overhang you will need for your moulding to cover the edge around your TV. This can vary for different models of TVs, so measure carefully. Next, cut your moulding at 45 degree angles according to your overall dimensions and the amount of overhang you’ll need.
Assemble the Frame
Apply wood glue to the ends of the pine boards and use the corner clamps to ensure a nice and snug fit for the corners. Then add three staples to each corner and let the glue dry.
Once all of the corners of the pine frame are dry, mark the amount of inset you measured earlier on each of the corners. Then apply wood glue to the face of the frame. Align the inside edge of each piece of moulding with the marks you made.
And attach them to the frame using the finish nailer. Three nails for each piece is plenty. The nails will go through the back of the frame but don’t worry, you can bend them back and forth a few times until the break off.
Paint and Finish
Fill all of the nail holes and corner cracks with wood filler. Let dry and then sand until smooth.
Here’s where you can get creative. We chose to go with a vintage gold look. First, apply two coats of gold paint and let dry. Then using a small paint brush apply some black paint to the grooves of the moulding, and wipe off the excess with a rag.
Adding Elastic Straps
Cut two pieces of the elastic strap about 3 inches shorter than the height of the frame. Come in about 3 inches from the side and make a mark. Then attach one end of the elastic band on this mark using an impact driver and wood screw. Then pull the other end tight and attach it on the other mark.
The Big Reveal
Carefully place your new DIY TV frame over your TV and admire your handiwork! Your TV has just been elevated from a piece of technology to a piece of art.
How to Display Art on Your TV
There are several clever ways to showcase art on your TV without the need for a specialized Frame TV.
Using a Roku to Display Art on a TV
A popular way to display art on a regular tv is by using a Roku device.
Step 1: Choose an Art App
Roku offers several apps designed specifically for displaying art. Some popular choices include “Artcast,” “Enplug Art,” and “Museum of Fine Art.” These apps provide access to a wide range of artworks, from classical masterpieces to contemporary art, allowing you to find something that perfectly matches your taste and home decor.
Step 2: Install the Art App
Navigate to the Roku Channel Store from your Roku home screen. Search for the art app you’ve chosen and select “Add Channel” to install it on your Roku device. Once the installation is complete, you can open the app directly from your home screen.
Step 3: Customize Your Display
Most art apps on Roku allow for customization. You can select specific artworks, curate playlists, or even set the duration each piece is displayed. Dive into the settings to adjust these options, ensuring the art showcase aligns with your preferences.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Digital Gallery
With everything set up, sit back and enjoy your new digital art display. Your TV will cycle through the artwork at your set intervals, transforming your space with every scene. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy art in the comfort of your home and can serve as a conversation starter when you have guests.
Using YouTube to Display Art on a TV
Displaying art on a normal TV using YouTube is another straightforward and cost-effective method to transform your screen into a lively art display.
Step 1: Find Art Videos or Channels on YouTube
Start by searching for art collections, galleries, or specific artwork videos on YouTube. There are many channels dedicated to art, offering everything from high-definition tours of world-renowned museums to curated collections of paintings, photographs, and more. Look for videos or playlists that match the type of art you wish to display in your home.
Step 2: Create a Playlist
For a more personalized art display, consider creating your own YouTube playlist. This allows you to compile your favorite art videos in one place, making it easier to play them continuously on your TV. Simply click the “Add to Playlist” button below any video you wish to include.
Step 3: Connect YouTube to Your TV
To display your art playlist on your TV, you’ll need to connect YouTube to your television. This can be done in several ways, depending on your TV’s capabilities and the devices you have at home:
- Smart TV: If you have a smart TV, it likely comes with the YouTube app pre-installed or available for download. Open the app and sign in to your YouTube account to access your playlists.
- Streaming Devices: Devices like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Chromecast, or Apple TV also support the YouTube app. Install the app on your device, sign in, and navigate to your playlist.
- HDMI Cable: Connect your computer or laptop directly to your TV using an HDMI cable. Open your web browser, go to YouTube, and play your art playlist. Make sure to set your TV to the correct HDMI input.
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