In this post I just want to share something that I do to make some ready-made frames look better.
When a frame is too dark or dull for a specific painting I use Rub'nBuff, which is a wax metallic finish that comes in different colors in small tubes. I apply this paste to the inner edge of a frame in order to make it look like a fillet.
The picture below shows some of the colors I use, from L to R: Gold Leaf, Antique Gold, Grecian Gold, European Gold(greenish), and Autumn Gold (reddish).
The steps are as follows: First, I isolate the area to be highlighted with painter's tape, making sure that the tape is positioned correctly.
I apply a small amount of the metallic paste (Antique Gold in this case) with a cotton swab, pushing it hard so that it gets into the edges of the moulding. I do the same thing with the inner side of the frame opening. making sure the application looks even. The paste/wax could be applied with your finger or a soft cloth, but I prefer the cotton swab method, and as a precaution, I also wear disposable gloves.
Once the whole area is done, I let it rest for a few minutes before removing the tape. It cures really quickly.
And this is how the frame looks with a painting:
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| Country Lane, 5x7" |
10 comments:
That's pretty cool! You don't have to scuff up the surface any before applying? Does the label say anything about how UV, or how light-fast?
Hi Dan, You just have to make sure the surface is clean. I forgot to mention that one is supposed to buff gently after it has dried. The result is a dull metallic with a glint that enhances small frames. The label says that it's combustible and contains soluble copper and petroleum distillates. There is nothing about lightfastness.
I think this is great idea, Adriana, it does look much better! Thanks for sharing!
Wow! I'm impressed! Amazing how it changes the frame to suit the painting. Thanks for the tip!!
what a great idea Adriana! where does one get Rub 'N Buff?
Sara
Tatiana, Hilda, You are welcome! I've only done that with small frames but they do sure look better with a little bit of contrasting color.
Sara, I know Hobby Lobby and AC Moore sells some of the colors (for less than $5 each) but United Manufacturers has a larger selection of colors (they even list Sapphire, Amethyst, Emerald and Turquoise) for $2.95 each.
Thanks so much for sharing this, Adriana! What a great way to add a little more interest to a frame without going overboard. Nice painting you featured too!
rameez, Thank you!
DonnaThank you! Yes, just a little bit does the trick. Right now I'm trying to figure out how to do the opposite with a frame that has too much gold in it for my liking... Any ideas?
I had a frame like that ... it almost glowed in the dark. I rubbed wood stain all over it to knock back the gold some. It's still a gold frame but more of an antique gold and much easier on the eyes!
Thank you Donna! I'll have to try that.
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