Framed screens for paper making
There are a number of ways to do this but I will give you three options depending on your carpentry skills.
I am not a carpenter and never will be method:
Go online or your local craft store and buy a framed screen.
I am not a carpenter but have some skills method:
Buy a picture frame, it doesn't need to be fancy. You are looking only at the strength of construction, size and material it is made of.
Construction: It needs to be durable. Ask yourself "If the glass were out would the corners be strong enough to hold some weight?" The larger the frame is, generally, the higher the cost. If you have old unused frames you can recycle them as screens.
Size: The size of the frame will determine the size of the finished product in most cases. You can always trim a paper down or cut 4 (8X10 sheets) out of a 16 X 20 sheet. You can only alter the size down from the size of the frame. If you only want 8 X 10 sheets, than by all means don't go larger. If on the other hand, you want a variety of sizes or shapes, go large. It just gives you more options.
Material: I prefer wood because we are going to staple into it. But if you can find a solid way to attach screening to it, use what you have. I have used old house screens. They work pretty well because they are designed to hold screening taut.
I am not a carpenter but can wield a hammer and cut a straight board method:
You can create your own frame by cutting two 1" X 2" the desired width and two the desired length. One 8' board will give you a frame approx. two feet square.
Once you have your frame:
If you are using an old screen or a store bought screen, you are all set. For everyone else you will need to attach screening over the frame by cutting the screening three inches longer and wider than the outside measurement of the frame. Starting in the middle on one side, staple the screen to the outside of the frame. Next go to the opposite side of the frame and stretching the screening, staple the screening to the outside middle of the frame. Repeat the process with the other two sides. Now work around the frame pulling the screening taut. Continue stapling the screen fabric to the frame until it is all secure and there is little to no give in the fabric.
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