I want to make frames like this ...

[Lisa]

I have a (silly) website called gardenporn (http://www.gardenporn.com), (full of flowers and gardens, etc.) which I want to sell picture frames on. I want to create a frame that has the outline of my log tarty flower girl, and block letters that spell out gardenporn.

When I see the commercials for this machine, I think I'll be able to use it to create them.

We attend farmer's markets and such, and sell prints and things as well as produce. I thought having some frames for people to put their own prints in would make a nice addition to the other stuff I sell.

Am I kidding myself? I'm fairly handy with many of my husband's woodworking machines. We farm and log ourselves, so I have tons of different kinds of wood and a sawmill. He's willing to help me learn, but doesn't want to be expected to make these for me.

I've got one sitting in my shopping cart right now, and thought before I check out, maybe I should get some thoughts from those of you who have the machine.

Thanks!

[rgant05]

Hi Lisa,
Its a little hard to tell exactly what kind of a frame design that you are talking about, but I tend to think that if may do what you are looking for. The machine and software are definately something that you have to learn, but having experience with woodworking machines and computers is a definate plus. There are also many people on the forum that like to help. I for one like challenges.... especially ones that I have to learn something new on. Over the next day or so, I will try to do something that might give you an idea of some of the possibilities. I have copied your "flower girl" from your website and will make an attempt at it. Any other description of details would help though.

Here is a picture frame that I carved (and left the back in it to mount my beadwork on). I carved this from a file that was scanned and created by another forum member and posted here on the forum to be used. It might give you some idea of the possibilities.

Roger

[Lisa]

I'm glad to hear some encouragement for my crazy idea. I don't really have many design ideas, and was hoping to be able to use the software that comes with the machine to try different things out.

Thanks so much for your offer of help! I'd love to see what you come up with.

Lisa

[forqnc]

Lisa, try downloading the trial software and play around with it.

[handi]

Lisa,

Download the software and try importing a good photo of the frame. You'll be amazed at the results possible.

You'll need a good picture, square on to the frame. Photo editing software will be helpful. The best results are had with black and white photos with good contrast. Once you import the photo, the software will create a carving from it. You can then program the machine to cut out the inside instead of carving it.

I've had pretty good results doing this, and it's a lot of fun.

Ralph