Antiquing a Frame

A faux antiquing treatment can give a low-priced, mass-produced frame all the charm of a antique treasure. Whether made of metal, wood or plastic, a frame does not require a lot of work to antique, nor is it expensive. With a little time, elbow grease and the right techniques, you can give that bland frame the style and character to match your home decor. Display your frame among your other antiques and no one will be the wiser.

Things You'll Need

• Rag
• Window cleaner
• Toothbrush
• Brown shoe polish
• Heavy-grit sandpaper
• Acrylic paint in two different colors
• Paintbrush
• White craft glue
• Block or small book
• Clear matte acrylic spray sealer

Instructions

Metal Frames

1. Remove the photo and the backing of the frame, if possible.

2. Clean your frame with a rag and window cleaner. Use a toothbrush to get into any nooks and crannies.

3. Dip a rag in brown shoe polish. Rub the shoe polish onto the frame. Rub over edges and into decoratively molded areas.

4. Wipe away areas that are getting too dark with the clean side of the rag. Continue adding and subtracting shoe polish until you are satisfied with the appearance.

Wood or Plastic Frames

1. Sand the frame with a heavy-grit sandpaper. This rough surface will help paint adhere more readily.

2. Paint the frame a base color. The base color should be a noticeable contrast to the finishing color. Allow the paint to dry.

3. Paint a finishing color over the glue while it is still wet. Use a single coat. As the glue dries, the finish will crack. You will be able to see the under-color in the cracks.

4. Allow the finishing coat to dry thoroughly. Wrap a piece of heavy-grit sandpaper around a block or small book, with the rough side facing outward.

5. Rub the frame in some places at random to make it look as though the paint is weathered and worn. Spray your faux antique frame with a clear matte sealer to protect your paint job.