Psychedelic frames

Hands-on time: Less than two hours.
Total time: Add 4 hours for drying time.
Skill: Moderate.
Cost estimate: $15.00 per frame.

Materials & Tools

• Flat wooden frame
• Acrylic paint
• Spray-on or brush-on varnish finish
• 1-inch (205-cm) paintbrush
• Ruler and pencil
• Scissors or an X-acto knife
• Holographic vinyl, paper or film (available at specialty art-supply stores)
• Spray adhesive

It's back to the 1960's with this groovy project, which makes the perfect finishing touch to a teenager's bedroom décor by transforming plain frames with the use of holographic vinyl, film or paper.

Cover your work area with newspapers, and then start by taking the frame apart. Clean the glass and set aside. Paint a plain wooden frame and the backing with acrylic paint. Neutral colours like black or white are best for this project, depending on the colour of the holographic paper or the room you want your finished project to coordinate with. Let the frame dry for at least two hours. Spray or brush on a varnish finish and let dry for two hours.

Place the front of the frame directly onto the back side of the holographic paper. Trace the exterior of the frame and its center opening with a pencil. Cut out the frame shape with scissors or an X-acto knife.

Most holographic vinyl papers have an adhesive backing, which you can just peel off. In a well-ventilated room, spray the backing with extra adhesive to ensure it will stick well. Next, apply to the frame while rubbing from the center out to get rid of any bubbles or puckering.

Place the glass back into the completed frame, add a picture, and then secure the backing board back in place. You now have a professional yet personalized looking frame which is certain to groove any décor mood.

Variations

• The holographic vinyl, paper or film can be replaced by metallic foils or embossed paper. Some of these papers come with adhesive backing, no need to use adhesive spray to apply them on to surfaces. Acrylic craft paint can be replaced for spray paint. Decorative film can also be applied directly onto previously painted items.
• Try your hand at more adventurous variations of this project with items like lamp shades, pencil holders, waste baskets, or coverings for books, boxes and framing mats.