Paper Crafted Frames Tutorial

Today, I'm going to share a little tutorial with you to make cute and thrifty wall art and/or picture frames from $1 Michael's wooden frames, craft paper, Matte Mod Podge and a little glazing paint.

If you remember this post, where I shared a little master bathroom updating and a plan for a project gone awry, the above photos show the finished project.  Each frame is backed with a little piece of tan linen and I attached the coral (from my husband's boyhood collection) with white embroidery floss. 

If you would like to make some of these frames for yourself or to use as gifts, follow this simple for tutorial.

First, begin with a $1 square, wooden frame from Michael's or any craft store.  

Mine is spray painted black, but you can simply use the natural wood to save a step.

Using an X-Acto knife, cut an outline of the frame in your craft/scrapbook paper. 

It's okay if they edges aren't perfect as everything will be buffed out later. 

Now apply your Mod Podge to the back of the paper and smoothly adhere it to the frame.  Allow to dry completely.

After drying, apply the top coat of Mod Podge and allow to dry completely.  Then, most importantly, use a sanding block to sand the paper edges until the are smooth along the wood edge.

Lastly, to create a worn and custom look, use a brown or black tinted glazing paint (I use Ralph Lauren in Chocolate Souffle) and brush it all over the frame.  After a minute or two, wipe the glaze down and concentrate on keeping glaze in your "imperfection" areas.  

Your finished product will look like this. 

I hope this little, but picture laden, tutorial inspires you to create some simple and thrifty paper-crafted frames!

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