| A Metallic Finish has a slightly glossy, pearl-like appearance. It is best to use this finish on smaller frames as the effect can be overwhelming on a large frame, thus taking away from the image it holds. To achieve this look, first prep the surface of the frame rather by sanding or wiping down any dust with a rag, depending on the material of the frame. Then apply two coats of any special metallic paint. Let dry and viola a metallic frame! Metallic finishes come in a variety of colour options so you will be sure to find the perfect compliment to your artwork. Just be sure to not let the frame steal the spotlight from the artwork!
A Painted Finish is the most common of finishes due to its easy application and endless colour options. It is also the best option for durability and longevity, however a painted finish adds a completely solid colour thus hiding the wood grain which can be undesirable for some people. Before painting, it is important to prep the surface of your frame by sanding and filling in any unwanted holes or defects with wood filler paste. Sand again after allowing the paste to dry and wipe any dust away with a cloth or a sponge. Then add 1-2 coats of paint, sanding in between layers and allowing 24 hours to dry for each. You can also apply a varnish or lacquer on top for a glossy finish!
An Antique Finish creates a beautifully distressed-vintage appearance. There are multiple methods that can be used to achieve this look. The simplest way to attempt this look is to paint your frame with a lighter colour and allow it to dry. Then using a cloth, soak it in a darker paint and sporadically dust your frame with it to create an aged-bespeckled appearance. The next method is to apply a dark coloured paint to your frame and allow it to dry. Then apply two coats of a lighter coloured paint on top and allow to dry. Then use sandpaper to remove any areas of the lighter paint that you want the darker paint to peek through for a worn effect. Using sandpaper is effective in removing the paint however, attempt lightly as it can also remove any intricate details of the frame itself. The last method is to paint your frame with a dark chalk paint and allow it to dry. Once dry, rub the frame all over with a beeswax candlestick. Then paint over with a lighter chalk paint and allow it to dry. The wax creates a barrier so the paint will not be able to stick in certain areas. Finally use strips of clear packing tape and stick to sections of the frame that you want paint to be removed from for a distressed look.
A Crackle Finish showcases a multidimensional use of paints in a crackling effect as its layers create depth. This finish is more difficult to achieve due to its unpredictable nature. This is also determined by the thickness of your layers. To achieve a crackle finish; you must add a layer of crackling paint, then a crackling gel, and then a final layer of crackling paint. Another option to get a crackling effect is to apply a coat of glycerophtalic paint and before it completely dries, add a layer of acrylic paint. Then after it's dried, apply a thin layer of furniture polish and it should naturally crackle.
A Wax Finish is the most subtle of finishes as well as the most luxurious. This polished appearch is easy to achieve. Begin with staining your frame to the desired colour, or leaving it as is if the colour is one you like but want to elevate. Once the frame is dry, apply a clear coat of wax using a rag or brush, and let dry. Then sand with a steel wool pad and apply the wax again. Repeat with sanding and one more final coat of wax, and finally buff out with a cloth.
After reviewing all of these finishes; Metallic, Wax, Crackle, Painted, and Antique, we hope at least one of these helped determine how you would like to finish your frames. All of these methods can be achieved with a few simple steps as long as you have the right materials. Don't forget to always prep your surfaces, whether it be sanding or wiping away any dust as it'll make it harder for the finishes to stick. Overall, these finishes are perfect for those of you who enjoy DIY-ing your projects and creating unique, low cost home decor!
|
Metallic Finish
Painted Finish
Antique Finish
Crackle Finish
Wax Finish
|
Canvas Prints
Fine Art Printing
Framed Prints
Plaque Mounting
Fabric Printing
Metal & Wood Prints
Plexi Face Mount
Print & Dry Mounting
Cityscape Prints
Greeting Cards
Classical Art Prints
AGP Galleries
Custom Picture Frames
Canvas Floaters
Wood Frames
Metal Frames
Canvas Transfer
Custom Stretcher Frames
Custom cut MatBoards
Custom Plexi Cuts
Custom Size Boards
Pre-Cut Boards
Framing Hardware
Upload Your Photos
Ideas Gallery
How it works? 
Artwork Scanning
Laser Engraving & Cut
Coffee Mug Prints
Acrylic Blocks
T-shirt Prints
Handmade Oil Paintings
All Products
Custom Artist Canvas
Custom Size Wood Panels
Canvas Stretching Services
Resources
DoveTail Guide
Aluminum Bars
Wood Panels
Stretcher Bars
Easels & Display
Resin Coatings
Cork Rolls/Sheets
Resin On Canvas
Price Calculator
Gift Certificates
Collages on Canvas
Word Cloud Design
Photo Mosaics
Image Effects
FAQs
Pro Accounts
Artist Gallery Program
Corporate Art
Contact KeenART
Turnaround time
Shipping
Rush Orders
