HGTV.comHGTV.com

Faux Painting

TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-705 -- More Projects »
PHOTO
Handywoman Adair Thies has great faux painting tips. For example, a frame doesn't necessarily have to be an expensive way to highlight a piece of art, a photograph or a mirror. You can easily paint your own, right on the wall (see photo at right).

Faux Painted Picture Frame

Materials:

pencil
straight edge
water-based paints
glazing medium

Steps:


  1. Hang your piece of art securely to the wall.
PHOTO

Figure A
PHOTO

Figure B
  • Use a pencil to lightly trace the outline of the mirror (figure A), then take the mirror off the wall, and put it in a safe place.

  • You can create the most elaborate frame you can imagine, with free flowing swirls and curls (figure B) that imitate ornate museum-style frames.

  • Remember to leave some room between the traced edge of the mirror and where you create the edge of the mirror because many frames are several inches wide.
    • PHOTO

    Figure C
    PHOTO

    Figure D
  • Fill in the traced edge with the paint color of your choice (figure C), and add color accents if desired.

    Tips


    • If you prefer a more straight-line approach, use a ruler or other type of straight edge (figure D) to make the lines exact.

    • Water-based paints mixed with a glazing medium work well because the paint will not dry as quickly.

    • Color color color! Traditional or whimsical, it's up to you what will work. Use several colors to create an illusion of depth and to highlight certain areas.

    • Always remember to protect the floor of the area over which you'll be painting. Use an old sheet or some painter's plastic.

    • Keep your paints and brushes within reach.
    • Also in this Episode
    TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-705
    •Dinner Party Fix-ups
    •Unusual Umbrella Uses
    •Faux Painting
    •Tip of the Day
    HGTV.com
    Services Popular Content About
    Our Sister Sites

    Comparison Shop for Home Decor & Garden Tools at Shopzilla & BizRate

    UpMyStreet and uSwitch.com provide UK comparison services.

    © 2008 Scripps Networks, LLC. All rights reserved.