Find unused or discarded pictures with frames and give them new life.

If you don't have any at home you can start where I do.
The local thrift store or...

Step 1: Keep Looking

If legal in your neighborhood, trash or dumpster diving works too!

Step 2: Take Apart

Now that you have your item -
Carefully take off the backing to separate the backing, frame, mat and picture

Step 3: Choose Colors

Pick out a couple colors that complement the picture, try them on the back of the mat.
Don't over wet the mat with paint or it may warp.

*I use chalk paint because it adheres well and I don't need to sand before painting

Step 4: Paint Mat

Paint the mat and let dry.
What a difference a little paint makes!

Step 5: Paint Frame

I have two different frames that I am painting here.
Get creative in this step, it wipes of easily if you make a mistake or don't like it.
Let dry for 10 min or so before next step

Step 6: Wipe With Damp Cloth

Do you want gold highlights or distressed looked?
Use a damp cloth or 220 sand paper on edges.

Step 7: Wax & Polish

If you use chalk paint as I have..
Wipe on clear wax then buff
If you want an "Antique" look after the clear wax you can wipe or brush dark wax on then buff