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October 26, 2009

More Picture Frame Styles

This style uses plaster of Paris again but in a slightly different way to making plaster moulds and sticking them onto the frame but I’m sure you will enjoy this one just as much and be very happy with the results..

For this style you will need:-

  • Flat picture frame (min width 7.5cm)
  • Stiff cardboard and tape
  • Plaster of Paris
  • Playdough
  • Biscuit cutter shapes
  • Paint and brush

What to Do:-

Cut four strips of cardboard to form a box around the outside of your picture frame. The sides will need to come above the frame by a few centimetres. Do the same on the inside of your picture frame. Make sure the corners of the boxed area are secure with tape to prevent leakage of the plaster.

Use the biscuit shape of your choice and the playdough to make some shapes and place them, as you like, around the frame. Each shape should be of even thickness about 1cm, press them gently and evenly into place.

Mix 300ml of plaster with 150ml of water to a creamy consistency. Pour into the cardboard box surrounding your frame to a level just below your shapes. Leave overnight to set.

When the plaster has thoroughly dried you are ready to decorate. Remove the frame and shapes and paint your chosen colours. If you’re not sure about colour choice think about where the frame will be located, can you blend it with colours in that location? Or, what are the shapes you have used for example, hearts – red and gold, shells – yellow and pale blue or stars – silver and dark blue.

Maybe you can make a few frames, package them up unpainted and give as gifts with some paint and brushes, Christmas is just around the corner.

Have a good time and enjoy your creativity.

October 25, 2009

Make your own Picture Frame

Filed under: Hand made gifts,Uncategorized — Tags: , , , , , , , , — @ 5:00 pm

A decorative picture frame on a wall or side table can turn a simple photo into a work of art. They can make a wonderful personalised gift or add some unique character to an otherwise ordinary room.

You will need to find or make a frame with a flat surface, any size is ok but a square frame with the outside measuring double the length of the window is a good method to use.

If you decide to make a frame, balsa wood works well, just cut to size and glue, using impact adhesive, at square angles.

Decorating your Frame

Using moulds that will fit on your frame and some plaster of paris your frame is only limited by the moulds you choose to use. Chocolate moulds are a good source for this design. There are a wide variety  of shapes available shells, dinosaurs, teddies, hearts and the list goes on. Once you have decided on and made your moulds you can paint them to suit your theme.

What to Do :-

  • Follow the directions for mixing the plaster to a creamy consistency.
  • Pour into moulds and leave to set for one hour.
  • Turn out the moulds and leave to dry completely.
  • Sand off any rough edges.
  • You can paint the frame and each mould individually if needed or glue to frame and paint altogether.
  • Position moulds onto your frame and stick into place. Leave overnight.

A gilt edged frame is nice with the shells and bright colours for a funky frame.

If you start now you will have made some quick and easy but uniquly attractive and personalised gifts for Christmas.

Enjoy and keep smiling. :)

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