Transform Old Pictures and Frames

Find unused or discarded pictures with frames and give them new life.

If you don't have any at home you can start where I do.
The local thrift store or...

If legal in your neighborhood, trash or dumpster diving works too!

Now that you have your item -
Carefully take off the backing to separate the backing, frame, mat and picture

Pick out a couple colors that complement the picture, try them on the back of the mat.
Don't over wet the mat with paint or it may warp.

*I use chalk paint because it adheres well and I don't need to sand before painting

Paint the mat and let dry.
What a difference a little paint makes!

I have two different frames that I am painting here.
Get creative in this step, it wipes of easily if you make a mistake or don't like it.
Let dry for 10 min or so before next step

Do you want gold highlights or distressed looked?
Use a damp cloth or 220 sand paper on edges.

If you use chalk paint as I have..
Wipe on clear wax then buff
If you want an "Antique" look after the clear wax you can wipe or brush dark wax on then buff

Enjoy your "new" art work