A frame assembly for mounting recessed fixtures that can be manually installed without the use of tools. One embodiment of the invention includes a primary mounting frame for recessed installation, the primary mounting frame defining an open interior to accommodate a fixture and including a border flange along the outer edge of the open interior. A ratcheting fastener is rotationally coupled to the primary mounting frame and can be manually secured by depressing it toward the border flange to secure the primary mounting frame between opposite surfaces of a substrate. The ratcheting fastener can be rotated to engaged or disengaged from ratcheting teeth.