10 Best Picture Frame Clamps [Buying Guide for 2023]

Picture frames are a great way to show off your photos, artwork, and other memorabilia. They can also be a great way to decorate a room or office. A lot of people like to use frames because they add personality and style to a room.

When it comes to picture frames, there is no room for error. The slightest deviation from the perfect frame can make your artwork look unprofessional. This is why you need a quality set of clamps to ensure that your framing is accurate.

best picture frame clamps

There are many different types of clamps available on the market, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. If you’re looking for a clamp for your picture frame projects, check out our detailed review of the 10 best picture frame clamps you can get today. After the review, there’s a buying guide that tells you exactly how to choose a picture frame clamp for your needs.

Top 5 Picture Frame Clamps Comparison Table

Image

Product Name

Material

Weight

Price

QWORK 2Pcs 90 Degree Corner Clamps

Aluminum

‎2.25 Pounds

Housolution Picture Framing Corner Clamps

Aluminum Alloy

1.66 Pounds

Bessey VAS-23 2K Variable Angle Strap Clamp

Glass Filled Nylon

1.25 Pounds

Steelex Shop Fox Self-squaring Frame Clamp

Metal

2.65 Pounds

Feiyang Picture Frame Miter Clamp

Metal

0.68 Pounds

Best Picture Frame Clamps Reviews

1. QWORK 2Pcs 90 Degree Corner Clamps

The QWORK 2Pcs 90° positioning squares right angle clamps are made from heavy-duty aluminum alloy square & stainless steel rod construction with durable plastic pads. They will grip your picture frame firmly without damaging your artwork. With these clamps, you’ll be able to do other projects that require a right-angle clamp, such as mounting shelves, boxes, or cabinets.

These clamps have anti-rust and anti-corrosion finishing, making them durable for long-term service. Each measures 5.5″ x 5.5″, and will comfortably fit wood boards with thickness from 7/16″ to 1- 9/16″. Their L shape and beveled edges make them perfect for squaring up shelf cabinets and keeping a square when assembling cabinets, frames, to name a few. Plus, there are double accurate, readable scales (metric and imperial) on the clamps to ensure precision.

The QWORK 2Pcs 90° positioning squares right angle clamps come equipped with two fixing blocks to help fix and assemble cabinets, frames, etc. To use, simply place the squares on the corners of the two raw materials that need to be flattened and clamp the squares in place.

Benefits

  • These clamps are easy to use.
  • They have two scales (metric and imperial) for precise work.
  • They are made of very durable materials to last for years.
  • They fit wood boards with thickness from 7/16″ to 1- 9/16″
  • Bangs for the bucks and gives an accurate 90°.

Drawbacks

  • None.
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2. MLCS Multi-Corner Picture Frame Clamp – Best Picture Frame Corner Clamps

MLCS is a trusted brand in the woodworking and carpentry industry. The MLC-4879 9012 woodworking special merle multi-corner clamp is one of the many useful woodworking equipment they have produced. This unique clamp can be used in so many ways for holding any frame for easy gluing, nailing, or screwing. It features four high-impact ABS plastic automated, non-damaging jaw inserts that can be aligned to any angle. You can buy additional inserts to clamp more corners.

The clamp is made from cast aluminum and steel for durability. It features a dual pivot to clamp frames of any size or shape securely. It fits frames as small as 2⅝” x 2⅝” to 69” x 69”. You can also extend it to any length using standard ⅜” steel banding or strapping. Thanks to its quick-release corner clips that pull off with finger pressure, you use little clamping pressure. However, the quick-release metal strip holder is flimsy.

Benefits

  • It is a well-built multi-purpose clamp.
  • You can use it in different woodworking applications.
  • The clamp can accommodate frames from 2⅝” x 2⅝” to 69” x 69”, and more.
  • It is affordable.

Drawbacks

  • The quick-release metal strip holder is flimsy.
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3. Bessey VAS-23 2K Variable Angle Strap Clamp

The Bessey Tools VAS-23 2K variable angle strap clamp is versatile. You can use it for any project that involves irregular shapes, picture frames, unusual objects, or circular work. However, it can’t provide enough clamping pressure for joints that need to be strong.

This handy tool comes with four pivoting corner clips that attach at different angles. Its 23′ L x 1″ W woven high tensile strength polyester strap can be drawn for both sides simultaneously, providing evenly distributed clamping pressure. The strap is resistant to stretching and glue. Plus, its coiling mechanism keeps it neatly contained.

The Bessey Tools VAS-23 2K variable angle strap clamp features pressure pads that pivot from 60° to 180° for firm clamping. Its comfortable grip makes it easy to use even when your hands are wet or oily. You can buy additional corner clips (packs of six) if you have a project involving large frames.

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Benefits

  • This angle strap clamp is versatile for different frame shapes.
  • It comes with pressure pads that move from 60° to 180° for secure clamping.
  • The strap is stretch and glue resistant.
  • It is a handy clamp.

Drawbacks

  • It is unable to deliver the clamping pressure required for strong joints.
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4. Steelex Shop Fox D4644 Self-squaring Frame Clamp

The Stelex Shop Fox D4644 frame clamp is a popular tool that woodworkers and carpenters use to make frames of different sizes. It is made from durable steel, so it can handle heavy loads without breaking.

Featuring four self-squaring clamp pads, the Stelex Shop Fox D4644 adjustable frame clamp exacts even pressure on frames, ensuring they are square.

It can handle frames from 5″ x 7″ to 26″ x 30″, making it versatile. You can even extend it to accommodate bigger frames with a bar clamp. The carriage bolt is a bit long for short frames. However, you can replace it with a short bolt to fix this shortcoming.

Benefits

  • This frame clamp is super easy to use.
  • It accommodates large frames.
  • It is made from high-quality steel.
  • This frame clamp does four corners at a time.

Drawbacks

  • It is a hassle to use for short frames.
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5. Feiyang Picture Frame Miter Clamp

The most difficult part of gluing together mitered corners when building picture frames, moldings, wood trim work, and any compound miter is stopping them from opening up. It’s time to say goodbye to those inconvenient and costly parallel clamps. If you’re looking for a quality miter clamp kit, the Feiyang miter spring clamps kit is a great option. Plus, the price is unbeatable!

This set includes eight clamps as well as a stretching plier. The clamps are composed of industrial-grade steel wires for improved gripping force and flexibility, allowing them to always return to their original shape and strength. Furthermore, the clamp’s pointed tips are perfectly sharp and positioned to puncture hardwood without damaging the fibers.

The stretching pliers in this kit is made of hard steel and have springs, which can automatically close and make work easier. Thanks to its thick rubberized handle, the plier is comfortable to use without giving much hand fatigue.

Benefits

  • The clamps and pliers are made from industrial-grade steel to last for years.
  • It is super easy to work with, especially for assembling all kinds of trim.
  • The plier’s rubberized handle is comfortable to hold for a long time.
  • The clamps won’t damage your workpiece.
  • The kit is very affordable and offers excellent value for money.

Drawbacks

  • The clamps may not last long.
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6. WETOLS 12PCS 90° Positioning Picture Framing Clamp

WETOLS 12PCS positioning squares are one of the best woodworking tools for making picture frames of different sizes on the market. These 90° right angle clamps create precise and consistent 90° angle frames. They are perfect for picture framing, assembling cabinets, drawers, boxes, furniture fixing, home decoration, and any other woodworking applications that need 90° corners.

The set comes with 12 pieces of positioning squares (four 3”, four 4”, and four 6”). They are made of high-strength engineering plastics. There are four clamps that will keep the squares in place while you work. Each of the squares has engraved scales in inches and millimeters so that you make nothing but precise 90° corners. You can also make corners of 45° and 22.5° angles with the squares. Plus, their rounded corner design ensures your workpiece doesn’t get scratched or disfigured as you work.

Benefits

  • This set comes with four 3”, four 4”, & four 6” positioning squares and four heavy-duty clamps.
  • They are made from high-strength engineering plastics.
  • You can make corners of 90°, 45°, and 22.5° angles with the squares.
  • The squares don’t damage workpieces, thanks to their rounded corner design.

Drawbacks

  • None.
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7. DCT Photo Framing Miter Joint Clamp

The DCT picture photo framing miter joint clamp is a tool designed to make the process of framing pictures and photos easier. It features eight 24” rods, four L-shaped beveled die-cast metal couplers, four nuts, and four corners. This handy tool allows you to securely hold your picture or photo in place while you attach the miters. With this clamp, you can have your picture framed in no time because it enables you to tighten all four corners simultaneously!

This clamp can accommodate frames from 2” x 2” up to 48” x 48”. All you need to do is measure the frame diagonals and make the necessary adjustments to square things up. It effortlessly clamps frames less than 23.5″ x 23.5″ measurement with four rods, and frames with 25.75″ x 25.75″ measurement or more with eight rods (4 sets of two rods coupled with a brass connector).

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Benefits

  • This clamp can be easily adjusted to accommodate frames of different sizes.
  • Its compartments are built to last.
  • It’s easy to use.
  • It offers value for the price.

Drawbacks

  • It is unable to align 45° angled cuts.

8. POWERTEC 71017 Quick Release Band Clamp

The POWERTEC 71017 band clamp quickly and easily clamps onto your workpiece of different regular and irregular shapes, holding it securely in place while you work. Its quick-release lever mechanism makes it easy to remove the clamp when you’re done.

You can easily increase tension with its hand-adjustable screw. Simply turn the handle in the clockwise direction until it tightens. However, it doesn’t exert enough pressure on frames to keep them firm for long.

This clamp has a durable plastic frame with non-marring clamping 1¼” 90° jaws paired with a high-grade 1” wide x 13ft long band made from nylon webbing. Plus, it’s affordably priced, making it a great value for any woodworker or DIYer.

Benefits

  • This clamp is very easy to use.
  • It is affordable and offers value for money.
  • It is made of long-lasting materials and will provide many years of service.
  • It does exactly what it says it does.

Drawbacks

  • It doesn’t have enough strength.

9. HEWEGO 4PCS Picture Framing Holder

The HEWEGO angle clamp is a professional-grade 90-degree corner clamp that is perfect for woodworkers, carpenters, and picture frame makers. With four clamps in each set, this tool quickly and easily creates right angles. The angle clamp is made of not-so-sturdy aluminum with steel screws and independently adjustable jaws. Be informed that it works well for only small-sized frames that don’t require much pressure to hold together.

The HEWEGO angle clamp is a professional-grade 90-degree corner clamp has a 3” maximum clamping range. Its swivel jaw and swivel points allow it to spin and adapt to different wood thicknesses. It’s ideal for securing picture frames, connecting cabinet & furniture components, and more.

Benefits

  • It’s a basic clamp that’s easy to use.
  • It is awesome for small frame projects.
  • It is reasonably priced.

Drawbacks

  • It cannot be used for large-sized frames.
  • It has a flimsy construction.

10. Kybic Picture Framing Corner Clamps

The Kybic corner right angle 90° clamp is a great option for woodworkers, carpenters, or anyone who needs a set of picture frame clamps. It is a professional-grade clamp made of high-quality lightweight aluminum, so it is durable and reliable. Plus, it features an easy-to-use design that makes it quick and simple to use.

This clamp easily erases the frustrating experience of lining up a perfect corner angle during woodworking or welding projects. You can mount it on any workbench for more support during projects. Whether you are working with wood, steel, aluminum, plastics, and glass, this clamp will make your work easier and more accurate 90° frame. Thanks to its non-slip adjustable handle and swing saw opening design, it will accommodate workpieces up to 2¾” thickness.

The Kybic corner right angle 90° clamp is easy to handle from any position, measuring 11¼” x 8½” x 2⅛” and weighing slightly under 2 pounds. Its ergonomic TRP rubberized grip prevents hand fatigue even when used for extended periods. It will, without a doubt, provide precision and reliability to all of your tasks.

Benefits

  • It is time-efficient.
  • It creates an accurate 90° angle on a variety of materials.
  • This clamp is heavy-duty and will last for years.
  • Its ergonomic rubberized handle makes it very easy to operate.

Drawbacks

  • It doesn’t work for workpieces with thickness above 2¾”.

Picture Frame Clamps in 2023- Quick Summary

Need to purchase the picture frame clamp urgently and don’t want to waste time? Quickly go through this summary of our top-ranked picture frame clamps.

Overall Best Framing Clamps: WETOLS 12PCS 90° Positioning Picture Framing Clamp

“If you’re looking for the best framing clamps, look no further than this WETOLS 12PCS positioning squares and right-angle clamp. This clamp set of different size squares are extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of applications. They’re also made from high-quality materials, so you can trust them to hold your pictures securely in place.”

Best Budget-Friendly Picture Frame Clamps: POWERTEC 71017 Quick Release Band Clamp

 “With its sturdy construction and quick release mechanism, this clamp is perfect for woodworkers and carpenters of all skill levels. Plus, at under $15, it’s very affordable.”

Best Multipurpose Picture Frame Clamps: DCT Photo Framing Miter Joint Clamp

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“This clamp is made of durable materials and can be used for a variety of applications. It’s also easy to use and provides a secure grip on your frames.”

Best Clamps For Small Frames: HEWEGO 4PCS Picture Framing Holder

“The HEWEGO Angle 4PCS 90° corner clamp is perfect for small frames that don’t require much pressure.”

Best Clamps For Large Frames: Steelex Shop Fox D4644 Self-squaring Frame Clamp

“Do you need a clamp for a large picture frame? If so, then you should check out the Steelex Shop Fox D4644 Adjustable Frame Clamp. This great clamp can adjust to fit frames of various sizes. It can handle frames from 5″ x 7″ to 26″ x 30″, making it versatile. You can even extend it to accommodate bigger frames.”

How to Choose the Best Picture Frame Clamps

If you are looking for a new picture frame, you may be wondering how to choose the picture framing clamps. There are many different factors to consider when making this decision. We’ll go over what to look for when buying a picture frame clamp in this buying guide.

Type of Picture Frame Style and Size You Want To Clamp:

The first thing you will want to consider is the frame style and size. If your picture frames are made out of wood, it would be best to choose a clamp that has some rubber on its jaws so as not to scratch or damage them, especially if they’re an antique!

Models with soft foam padding inside their jaws can help prevent scratches or damages from happening to your frame. Keep it in mind that even though these types of clamps may seem like nice touches, they won’t protect against cracking over time. On the other hand, if your frames are metal or plastic, any clamp will do.

How Much Money Are You Willing to Spend?

Another factor you will want to consider is how much money you are willing to spend on a picture frame clamp. There are many different clamps available on the market, and they range in price from around $12 to $200. So, decide what your budget is before you start shopping.

Ease of Use: 

How easy is it to operate the clamp without damaging your photos, artwork, and other items in your home decor collection? If you have a hard time using clamps, it might be better for you to choose one that has a handle. Some people find that handles can help with grip and make things easier.

Frame Thickness:

The thickness of the frame is the next factor to consider. This is significant since most clamps have a frame thickness that they can precisely retain. You’ve wasted money if you buy a clamp that can’t hold the frame for your projects since a too-tight clamp might ruin the frame. And, if it’s too loose, the frame won’t be kept in place firmly. As a result, be sure the clamp you buy is appropriate for your project needs.

Additionally, some clamps have adjustable jaws, which means they can open wider or narrower to accommodate frames of different thicknesses. If you are a woodworker or carpenter, you should consider buying this type of picture frame clamp.

Strength of the Clamp:

The clamp’s strength is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, you must check that it can hold your frame in place without breaking. Second, you don’t want to scratch the wood or metal where the clamps will be installed. Finally, you don’t want to put too much strain on the frame, since this might lead to cracks and other issues.

Construction of the Clamp:

Another factor to consider is the construction of the clamp. Some clamps are made out of metal, and others can be made from plastic or wood. Metal clamps tend to be stronger and more durable than plastic ones because they have a greater load capacity.

Measurement Scales (imperial and metric): 

Some clamps include built-in scales so that you can take measurements without using additional instruments like rulers or calipers. This is particularly useful if you need to make tweaks while the frames are clamped together.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, you want to find a clamp that can hold your picture frame securely in place while being easy to use. You also need it to be reliable and not break easily.

Our goal was to provide an unbiased review of the top-rated clamps on the market, as well as a comprehensive buying guide to help you make the best purchase decision possible. We believe that our list contains some excellent options for any budget, and we are confident that whichever clamp you choose, will help you display your photos or artwork with pride.

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