DIY tutorial Annie Sloan whitewashed gold frame for a pretty watercolor

Hello friends....always great to see you here.

Today I want to share a little Annie Sloan restyle magic.

I painted the watercolor shown here a few weeks ago. She needed a frame, however, all the vintage and antique frames I have in my stash are all variations of gold.

I thought the painting was too clean and feminine for an old looking frame.

 Here is what the frame looked like originally.
Unimpressive gold paint with a worn off-white linen inner section.
Enter Annie Sloan Provence paint.

 One and a half coats of paint on the frame and right over the linen.
The only prep was to dust the frame off.
Did you know you can use Annie's paint to restyle old photo mats?
I had some custom mats that were a dark maroon color, but now they are a clean off-white.
I love reusing and not spending money on new mats.

After the Provence paint was dry (approx. 30 minutes), I added water to a little bit of Old White Annie Sloan paint.
I liberally applied the watery white paint to the whole frame, being sure to get some in all the recesses and detailed corners.

 With a soft paper towel, I gently wiped away the wet wash of white paint.
I made a point of leaving the white to settle in the detail and let it dry there.
You can see how the wash is giving the Provence a gorgeous and fresh weathered look.
Let dry...you have the option to clear wax, white wax or just leave unwaxed.
I chose not to wax, as I loved the matte look.

Before and after

 Here she is as I am letting the whitewash dry.

Well...what do you think?

Isn't this color and painting technique just perfect for my watercolor?

It compliments the colors and the femininity of the flowers.

I just love it!

I hope you give this type of home decor restyle a go, I know you will enjoy the process.

Just think of all those dingy old picture frames you always see at your local thrift/charity shops.

Until next time.....be kind and stay creative.

Hugs,

Janet xox