September 2020 ~ Now That You Are Home...

I love design. It makes me. Pure bliss. Until that day arrives. The day I realize everything is hideous. The picnic is over, and all the food is gone. Well, of course that is a little harsh, but... When it is time to go it is time to go. Interior design changes just as fast as fashion does. In one season, out the next. Such is the case with most of my picture frames. Recently I woke up and decided all the black frames must go. Time for a new picnic basket.

Good thing I am handy. This quick fix is a great way to change the color of your frames without replacing them. A new look, not better, a more current look. Just follow these little tips and you can transform the look of your frames quickly and easily without having to replace that picnic basket.

This is what you will need-

Frames

Push Pins

Spray Paint- Semi Gloss Finish

I use Rust-oleum spray paint. It usually covers most surfaces with two coats of paint. I love the “white” look but the color selection is limited with spray paints. Most white spray paint is too stark for me. Off white is too yellow. I stumbled on this “Ivory” a very soft white that blends well in many rooms. Actually, it is just perfect.

Disassemble your frames and place on a protected surface. It is best to use spray paint outdoors. Do not paint in direct sunlight. Sunlight instantly dries the fine mist of the spray as you are spraying and can leave a rough texture on the surface of the frame. Also, cooler temperatures are not ideal for paint, temperatures below 65 degrees F will not allow the paint to adhere properly.

Tap push pins on the back side of the frame. This is to elevate the frame from sticking to the surface and causing rough edges.

Shake the can of paint for a minute or two. Your first coat of paint should be a light coat. Plan on two if not three coats of paint. Point the can away from the frame and start spraying into the air. Once you have a steady stream of spray, start spraying the frame. The first few seconds of spray can have some big particles of paint that might leave a rough texture when dry. Hold the can about 6” away with slow and steady sweeps around the frame. Stop when you have a light first coat. Let dry about ½ hour.

Repeat for a second coat.

Inspect the frames. If you see any areas that need a bit more paint, this is the time. Check the sides and look for any light spots. Because I am painting a light color over dark, I applied three coats and a little more on a few sides. I let the frames dry overnight, inside.