Decorating Ideas for Picture Frame Moldings

Paint

• Paint does wonders for old wood frames. Paint the frame moldings with a metallic or shiny enamel paint. Add extra interest by using a glaze, a semitransparent film applied over a base coat. Apply the glaze before the paint dries to make different patterns in the finish. Drag a dry brush over it to make lines or bunch up a rag and roll it across the glaze to make a watermark pattern. Drag a comb over the frame after applying glaze for a stripe or dab it with a sponge to make a muted design.

Faux Finishes

• Make an inexpensive frame look like an antique by applying a base coat of paint and using antiquing toner wiped on with a rag, brush or steel wool to streak it and make it look old. Marbleize a frame by painting a base color. Apply a tinted glaze with a sponge and add veins with oil-based paint and small brushes, then blend with a dry brush. Make a tortoise shell frame by applying a glossy brown varnish over a yellow base. Paint black and umber stripes at a diagonal onto the wet varnish. Use a dry brush to blend the stripes.

Stencils

• Transparent Mylar stencils come in a variety of designs. Paint the frame a light color and let it dry. Tape the stencil to the frame and use a stencil brush and paint to stipple the design on the frame. Once one section is dry, start the next. Frames look beautiful with simple heart, flower or star stencils. More elaborate designs can utilize two or more colors.

Tiles

• Wood frames with a flat surface are suitable for mosaic tiles. Score the frame lightly with a utility knife to ensure the tiles and glue will create a strong bond. Apply tile adhesive in small sections, place the tiles and let dry for 24 hours. Fill in the spaces between the tiles with grout and let dry. Use small glass or ceramic tiles or break up old china or pottery to use as tiles.

Hot Glue

• Affix seashells all around a frame using hot glue. Cover as much of the frame as possible. Use seashells that have one flat side, as they will stick much better. Paint the frame first, if desired. Another option is to embellish a wood frame with decorative buttons using hot glue. Glue medium to large buttons in several spots on the frame, including each corner, or cover the frame with masses of buttons.