Hey Dahlia, I decided to use real frames and plasticell after using Dadants EZ frames. I started with the EZ frames as the thought of buliding my own was kind of "provoking" to me.
Building frames (at least the "Grooved Top" type)
Is Amazingly EASY! You're gonna be surprised at how easy you will find it!
I use the hammer and brads (maybe a nail or staple gun late..I did look at them at Lowes and home depot though after i ordered my frames). Also, I used wood glue(tan colored Elmers)..Gorilla glue is GREAT glue . I've used it many times on other projects. I built my first hive box with Gorilla glue. For me though, I find that I have a sticky mess everywhere untill it dries. Being that its such a good glue its also more difficult to clean up..The more times you "Dab and smear" the more mess you make.(At least for me its that way)
The guys are correct about using Gorilla glue...I dont think you'll find another glue that bonds so well with wood. Jerry mentioned "wetting the ends"...To make the Gorilla glue work right you need to wet the wood.
I cant remember what foundation you are gonna use. As for me The plasticell just snapped right into the frames!
The foundation looked even on both sides of the frames so I guess they were square...I didnt think of checking for squareness.
Well, thats all I guess.
Your friend,
John