---
title: How do I back my wood frame?
description: Learn how to properly back an American Frame wood frame with adhesive transfer tape, backing paper, and a sawtooth hanger for a professional, protective finish. Follow these simple steps for a secure and polished DIY framing project.
---
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# How do I back my wood frame?
## DIY custom framing lets you personalize your artwork while ensuring its visual appeal and protection. This guide outlines the steps to apply a dust cover and seal the back of your wood frame for a professional finish.
### What Is a Dust Cover?
A dust cover is a sheet of Kraft paper or acid-free backing paper applied to the back of a custom wood frame. It serves multiple purposes:
- **Protection:** Prevents dust, bugs, and debris from entering the frame.
- **Humidity Control:** Helps stabilize the internal humidity levels of the frame, protecting the art from moisture damage.
- **Aesthetic Appeal:** Gives the frame a polished, professional finish.
Now, let’s walk through the steps to back a wood frame properly:
### Step 1: Apply Adhesive Transfer Tape
Start by applying a strip of [**Adhesive Transfer Tape**](https://www.americanframe.com/transfer-tape-for-applicator-f6070) (ATG tape) to the back lip of the wood moulding. This professional-quality, double-sided tape is perfect for securely attaching the dust cover. For a faster and more efficient application, use an [**adhesive tape applicator**](https://www.americanframe.com/atg-700-adhesive-tape-applicator-f6060).
- **Tip:** Make sure to apply the tape around the entire perimeter of the frame.
### Step 2: Apply and Trim the Backing Paper
Select a piece of [**Kraft paper**](https://www.americanframe.com/dust-cover-kraft-backing-paper-f7030) or [**acid-free backing paper**](https://www.americanframe.com/acid-free-frame-backing-paper-f613-2472) that is slightly larger than your frame.
1. Flip the frame over onto the oversized backing paper, ensuring that the adhesive tape sticks securely.
2. Press down firmly to make sure the paper adheres well to the frame.
3. Flip the frame back over, and use a [**dust cover trimmer**](https://www.americanframe.com/dust-cover-trimmer-f7010) or **utility blade** to trim the excess paper.
- **Tip:** Cut just slightly inside the frame’s edge to ensure that the paper is not visible when viewed from the side.
Once completed, your frame will have a neat, protective backing that looks both professional and polished.
### Step 3: Apply the Hanger or Mounting System
To hang your framed artwork, you'll need to attach a mounting system.
1. **Mark the center:** Find and mark the center of the top back portion of your frame.
2. **Attach the sawtooth hanger:** Align the hanger with the center mark and hammer it into the frame.
- **Tip:** For larger or heavier pieces, consider using a **wire** or the [**Hangman Wood Picture Frame Hanging System**](https://www.americanframe.com/hangman-wood-picture-frame-hanging-system-5in-f8110). This system includes extra-strong wall mounting hardware and a built-in level, and it can support up to 200 pounds when fastened to wood studs.
### Step 4: Add the Final Touch – Bumper Pads
For the last step, add [**bumper pads**](https://www.americanframe.com/bumper-pads-f9070) to the bottom two corners of the frame. These small plastic pads serve two purposes:
- They protect the wall from scratches.
- They prevent the frame from shifting or tilting once hung.
Apply the pads to the bottom corners, and your frame will be ready for display.
For more information, please feel free to read through this [blog post](https://www.americanframe.com/pictureframeblog/diy-picture-framing-tips-the-proper-way-to-back-a-wood-frame).
---
Here is a helpful video that demonstrates applying a dust cover to the back of your wood frame.
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