Shabby-chic, shabby-vintage, anything but plain shabby! The most difficult decision for me, was what not to do with it. I made this Painted Picture Frame into a chalk board and it was just so quick and easy! It’s so versatile that I’m sure if you could use the same turotial to make lots of frames – all different, but great.

1. Take out the backing board and glass and, after washing the frame thoroughly (and glass, if using), sand the frame lightly to give a key for the paint to adhere to and wipe with a clean cloth.
2. Paint at least 2 coats of undercoat, leaving to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions on the tin. If your frame is plastic, like this one, be careful not to ‘overbrush’ the first coat as this can sometimes wipe the wet paint off again. The first coat will probably look very patchy and the second should give a better coverage. Try to ensure you get your paint in all the nooks and crannies.
3. Apply 2 top coats, allowing more time than the manufacturer recommends. If you do not allow adequate time for the paint to harden properly, the paint will ‘drag’ when you start to sand it.
4. Start sanding the edges and protruding parts of the frame, paying most attention to those parts which would naturally incur the most wear (like the corners) and leaving the deeper crevices un-sanded. The overall effect your are aiming for is natural but not too symmetrical.
5. When you are happy with the overall look, wipe the whole piece with a clean damp cloth to remove the loose paint & sandpaper. Apply a coat of wax, leaving it to harden before ‘buffing’ with a clean cloth.

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