Today we’re going to upgrade a thrifted frame and add some new art. I found this large frame at a nearby thrift store for $40 and transformed it with just a few materials. You can watch the video here.
I wanted a raw wood look for the frame. I’ve used this technique a few times before and have been so pleased with the outcome: art frame sets, nightstand and antique cabinet.
First I cleaned the piece and then painted the frame in matte finish with the color Burnished Clay. I used thin layers and went in the same direction, watching out for drips. This was an inexpensive replica of an oil painting, so don’t worry, I didn’t ruin anyone’s original art ;)
I painted the inside too so it won’t bleed through to the new art that would go on top.
Next is the fun part! I rubbed a small amount of antiquing wax in the groves with a cloth. Make sure to use gloves as this stuff is messy. It’s incredible to me every time how much it resembles real wood!
I found a piece of digital art that I loved on Etsy that was painted in the 1800s called Vintage Apple Tree for $3 and printed it at Staples for $10 using their blue print selection. Now, a quick word about that. It is not meant for artwork because the resolution is much lower than posters or photos. If your image even has too much saturation it will not upload. This one worked because it is more of a sketch with less pigment. When I went to pick it up that lady asked me if this was for artwork and I said “kind of” so she let me off the hook without a lecture. So, just be warned.
Due to the lower resolution, which I thought still looked pretty good, I decided to paint in some areas to look more realistic.
I managed to cut the print to size and carefully insert it into the frame without taking the back off. It has stapled and has paper backing. I think the canvas is even glued to the frame.
And finally I used a thin layer of Mod Podge to seal it and add texture.
I went with the shapes in the painting to add texture and hopefully make it look more like an actual painting.
