Create a unique photo display by collecting some mismatched secondhand frames and painting them with a carefully orchestrated palette
Sunset
Materials
Tempered hardboard, 1/8 inch thick
Clear acrylic sheet
Primer
Black latex paint, any sheen
Photographs
Tools
Tape measure
Yardstick
Pencil
Jigsaw or circular saw
Sandpaper or sanding sponge, 100 grit
Microfiber dust cloth
Fine-tip marker
Utility knife
Drop cloth or newspaper
Paint tray
Roller, 9 inch or mini
Double-sided tape, any width
Black plastic tape, 1½ inch
Double-coated mounting tape, any width
Steps
Design the layout. Choose which of your photographs to pair with each frame, determine their arrangement on the wall, and select which color to use for each.
Prep. Remove the mat and glass from each frame. Lightly sand any sheen off the wood with the sandpaper or sanding sponge. Remove any residue with the dust cloth.
Paint. Position the drop cloth or newspaper, and arrange the wood scraps to support the frames. With the brush, paint the frames different colors, taking care to avoid leaving drips in the corners.
Mat. When the frames are dry, take them to a framing shop and buy precut mats for them, all in the same color. Or reuse any mats of the same color that you already have. If you have an odd-size frame and can’t find a precut mat that fits, choose a photograph that doesn’t need a mat for that frame.
Mount. Assemble the mats and photographs in the frames. Using the hammer, tap the picture hangers or nails into the wall and then hang the framed pictures. (If the walls are plaster, drill small holes for the hangers or nails before you tap them in so you don’t crack the plaster.)