An Easy Mixed Media Project Using Thrifted Frames
I’m always ready for spring this time of year, but this winter has been especially brutal with polar vortexes, snowstorms, and all-around frozen tundra vibes here in America’s heartland. Two things that reliably get me through the long winter months are thrifting and creative projects.
Not every thrifted find needs a makeover, and some glow-ups are more involved than others. This project falls right in the sweet spot: part makeover, part art-making; and you can make it as simple or as extra as you want.
If you love creating art but don’t want to draw or paint, this one’s for you.
Thrifting Frames: What to Look For
There are no hard rules when thrifting, but I do have a few self-imposed boundaries. I rarely spend more than $3.99 on a frame unless it’s oversized or truly spectacular. And by spectacular, I mean antique gold gilding, convex glass, or a shape so weird and wonderful I’ve never seen it before.
I typically look for:
- Solid wood frames
- Real glass (not plexiglass—hard pass)
- Standard American sizes like 8×10 or 11×14
Bonus points if the frame includes a mat. That’s what drew me to the frame for this project.
Because I’m creating my own artwork, I can make it fit the frame. If you’re framing something you already own, be sure to measure first.
Pro tip: keep a small tape measure in your bag—it’s handy for frames and the giant dresser you’re pretending you don’t want.
Step 1: Deconstruct the Frame
Remove the backing, existing artwork, and mat (if there is one). Set those aside.
Next, remove the glass, clean it thoroughly, and place it somewhere safe.
Step 2: Choose Your Paper
This is where you get to have fun. There are no rules.
You can use:
- Old book or dictionary pages
- Vintage sheet music
- Cardstock
- Even the original artwork (painted over)
For this project, I used 250g natural-colored paper suitable for painting and gluing, size A4 (8.3 × 11.7 inches). Since I’m reusing the original mat, there’s no need to trim the paper.
Step 3: Let’s Make Art (No Drawing Required)
I chose not to paint the paper. I love the natural tone, and it complements the mat beautifully. This one’s meant to be quick and easy.
Iron Orchid Designs recently released their Spring Collection, and since I’m a retailer, I used:
Stamping Tips
Because the stamp was brand new, I lightly sanded it with 220-grit sandpaper before first use (you only need to do this once).
Before inking, I placed the stamp on the paper to test positioning. Once satisfied, I inked it using Stone Gray ink from Iron Orchid Designs, patting the ink pad directly onto the stamp.
For a crisp impression:
- Don’t wiggle the stamp
- Don’t press too hard
- A light “tickle” of pressure is plenty
Adding Texture with Napkin Decoupage
Once the ink dried, I decided to soften the design and add texture. I had leftover white napkin plies from recent decoupage projects- perfect for this and wasting nothing.
Here’s what I did:
- Brushed Golden Soft Gel Matte generously over the paper
- Laid down the napkin ply, wrinkles and all
- Gently brushed more gel medium on top
Don’t overwork it or the napkin will tear. If it does? Let it dry and patch it.
We’re going for character, not perfection.
Let everything dry completely.
Applying the Transfer
After drying, I sorted through the Flora Greca transfer pad to choose my image. After cutting out my desired image I tested placement by sliding the paper back under the mat and placing the transfer down WITH THE BACKING STILL ON. This helps you avoid placing anything where it won’t be seen.
Once positioned:
- Remove the transfer backing
- Gently burnish using the included stick
Because the paper was sealed with gel medium, the transfer went on smoothly. I highly recommend sealing your surface before applying transfers.
Since this piece will live behind glass, I didn’t seal over the transfer afterward.
Step 4: Reassemble the Frame
Time to put it all back together.
I used acid-free tape to attach the artwork to the mat so it wouldn’t shift. If your paper fits the frame exactly, you can skip this step.
Assembly order:
- Glass
- Mat with artwork
- Original cardboard backing
Note: Cardboard isn’t acid-free, so if you’re framing heirloom art, consider archival mat board or foam core instead.
The frame tabs were intact, so I bent them back into place. If yours are missing, a point driver is a fantastic investment- about $30 and a total game changer for frame upcycling.
Finally, I added D-rings and picture wire for hanging. I left the frame unpainted this time, but painting is always an option…it’s all personal preference.
Your New DIY Wall Art
That’s it! Hang your new mixed media masterpiece somewhere, it’ll make you smile- especially knowing you made it yourself.
For Iron Orchid Designs products, including the newest release, visit my website Junkd Up Home
And if you try this project, tag me on Instagram or Facebook @junkdup. I love seeing what you create.
Now go make art—no drawing skills required.
