Please sing this to the tune of The Brady Bunch theme song:
Here’s the story… of two cheap black frames…
… found at Target and then spray painted bright white…
… then they both looked sleek and twin-like…
… and made me want to twirl.
This little DIY started with two inexpensive black frames I picked up at Target (they didn’t come in white; I believe they were about $21). I sprayed them with my go-to primer-plus-paint, Rustoleum Universal in Satin White, let them dry, and then framed some prints that had been waiting around for attention.
For a quick, polished look I used the paper that originally came in the frame as a white backing, centered the print on it, secured the corners with small loops of tape so nothing sticks permanently, and then closed the frame. Framing pros often recommend using a mat so the print doesn’t touch the glass—over time contact can cause issues—so if you’re framing a valuable or delicate piece, consider a proper mat and spacer. For inexpensive prints that you want to switch out seasonally, this faux-mat trick works great and has held up for us for years.
The other print is shown above. Forgive the reflections in my photos—glass has a mind of its own—but the print itself looks crisp in person. We bought the 17 x 23″ print for around $26 and placed it in a frame with a 22 x 28″ opening so it floats in the center, giving a clean gallery look without a custom mat.
I’m a little obsessed with animal art—narwhals, eagles, bears, manatees, and, of course, cats have all made appearances around our house. The animal prints tie in nicely with a colorful HomeGoods pillow and a repurposed letter “L” on the wall, which adds personality and a touch of whimsy to the arrangement.
One piece that finally found its spot is the bee painting I picked up for John a few years ago. It now hangs beside a portrait of Burger that my friend Lesli gave me for my birthday. Both look more permanent and intentional now that they share a place on the wall, instead of just leaning on the mantel. Two birthday paintings sitting together feel like old friends.
I should probably file this project under my “Dude, Get On That Already” challenge—some of these pieces have been waiting on the to-do list for months (or years). It feels great to finally check one of those small, nagging tasks off the list. Now I just have a hundred other little painting and hanging projects mocking me from the playroom. Stay tuned—I’ll keep sharing the progress.
If you’re planning a DIY frame makeover, a few quick tips: choose a paint formulated for multiple surfaces for better adhesion, lightly sand or scuff the frame first if the finish is slick, use light even coats to avoid drips, and let plenty of dry time before handling. For framing prints, consider whether a real mat is necessary or if a white backing will do for now—match your choice to the value and humidity of the room.
What overdue projects are on your list? Have you ever noticed a theme in the artwork you collect? Tell us about your framing or spray-painting wins, and reassure me I’m not the only one filling the house with animal portraits.
Psst—if you want a little update in motion, Clara’s been dancing over on our family blog. She might just be the best mover in the house now.