If you've been collecting used frames from tag sales, resale shops, and friends who've cleaned out their garages, you probably have a wide variety of frames that don't match each other or are in pretty rough-looking shape. One way to update these frames is with a fresh coat of paint and some decorations.Prepping FramesThe first step is to sand the picture frame or go over it using a wire brush. This will remove any dust and provide a rougher surface for the paint to adhere to. If the frame has paint on it already, try to remove as much of the current paint as possible.Choose paint colors that compliment the décor in rooms where you want to display the frames. For a bit of variety, choose several complementary paints in the same color family and use a different color on each frame. This works very well with neutrals. You could paint frames using several different colors of white, or different gray tones, or different types of black, or different brown shades.Painting TipsRemove glass and pictures from the frame before painting and lay down newspapers or a drop cloth to protect the surface under your frame. If you cannot get the picture out of the frame, use painter's tape and newspaper to completely cover the glass.Use a primer before painting the frame. If you're painting with dark colors using a darker gray primer means you'll need fewer coats of paint to hide the primer color. For lighter paint colors, use a standard white or light gray primer.You can either use spray paints or apply using a brush. Plan on applying 2 to 3 coats of paint on each frame for complete coverage. Let the paint dry for about 24 hours between coats, or as directed on the paint cans. You can leave the finish smooth or plan on distressing the paint using candle wax and sandpaper for a more rustic look. Once the last coat is dry, you're ready to move on to decorating.Adding DecorationsYou can use mini decorations from Bugs-n-Blooms on your frame in a variety of ways:space decorations evenly around the frameplace one on each cornerclump decorations onto one corner of the frameadd variety by using different styles and colorsOur mini decorations measure 1-inch to 4-inches, depending on the style, making them just the right size for using on picture frames. These little butterflies, dragonflies, ladybugs, flowers, and bees are easy to attach with adhesives like hot glue, tacky glue, glue dots, or double-sided tape. And voila! You have an attractive, up-dated frame ready to display your favorite photos.The post Make Old Photo Frames New With Bugs and Blooms appeared first on Bugs-n-Blooms's Butterfly Life.
