Crackled Green Frame with Dried Flowers

by Lesley Dietschy

This pretty frame is very quick and simple to make. Place your favorite picture in it or give it away as a special gift.

Materials:

Ready made 5x7 wood frame (any cheap wooden frame works well)
Crackle Spray Paint Kit from craft store or local hardware store (I used Decorative Effects Weathered Crackle by Valspar in Ivory Hue for the base coat and Billiard Green for the top coat, which creates the crackle effect)
Masking Tape
Newspaper
Gloves
Dried Flowers
Raffia
Hot Glue Gun and Glue
Polyurethane (optional)

Directions:

1. Lay newspaper down to cover work surface and tape in place. Use paint in well ventilated area and protect any surrounding objects from overspray.

2. Take frame apart and set aside glass and backing of frame.

3. Prepare frame by removing any dust or dirt with a damp cloth and then dry with a lint-free towel. Be sure frame is completely dry before applying the base coat.

4. Follow the manufacturer's directions and spray base coat on front side of frame. Allow adequate time to dry and then spray paint the back side of frame. Allow to dry completely.

5. Spray Top coat on front side and allow to dry. Once dry, spray paint the back and allow it to dry.

6. Once paint is completely dry, you can apply a thin layer of Polyurethane or other clear gloss or satin protector to seal color, add depth and protection.

7. After the frame is completely dry, arrange your dried flowers on the frame and hot glue in place.

8. Tie a small bow out of Raffia and hot glue on the dried flowers.

9. Put frame back together and place your favorite picture in it or place it in a pretty bag to give away as a gift.

Tips and Variations:

Use disposable gloves to keep the paint from getting on your hands.
The key to a beautiful spray finish is proper surface preparation. Be sure the surface is clean and dry before applying the paint.
Place the frame on a piece of wood or box while drying to prevent it from sticking to the newspaper.
Use any decorative paint technique with the dried flowers to create very unique frames.
Play around with the placement of the dried flowers until you get the look you want. For example, place the flowers along the top instead of along the side.
Try this technique on any size frame.
This frame is only limited by your imagination. Get creative and have fun!

About the Author:
Lesley Dietschy is a freelance writer and the creator/editor of The Home Decor Exchange and the Home & Garden Exchange. The Home Decor Exchange is a popular home and garden website featuring resources, articles, decorating pictures, free projects, a shopping marketplace, and more. The Home & Garden Exchange is a unique link exchange program and directory dedicated to home and garden websites. Please visit both websites for all of your home and garden needs. http://www.HomeDecorExchange.com http://www.HomeGardenExchange.com

Please remember to consider and take appropriate safety precautions before and during any art or craft project.

Some craft projects on this site may be unsuitable for children. In any case, adult-supervision is required all children's craft activities and projects.

This article is reprinted here with the author's express permission.

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