Lately, I’ve been hooked on vintage picture frames. I absolutely love searching for these beautiful pieces that are so full of detail and add such character and charm to our home.
It’s fairly easy to source vintage frames, but sometimes it does take patience to find what you’re looking for. I have the best luck finding vintage frames at our local thrift stores and flea markets, but you can also find them at antique stores, estate, and garage sales, and even on Facebook Marketplace.
The prices of vintage frames really vary, and it all depends on the condition and value of the piece you are buying. Sometimes you’ll stumble across a beautifully framed vintage piece of art in great condition. If you’re drawn to the original art it can be worth paying a bit more for it, as you are getting a truly authentic piece.
However, more often than not, you’ll come across a vintage frame you love that is either empty or contains generic art or an old photograph. These frames are generally very inexpensive and are great for framing a new piece of art.
I personally love using these frames to recreate the look of vintage art with an inexpensive print. I share more about how to get the look of a vintage painting here.
How to Source Vintage Picture Frames
Step One
When shopping for vintage frames there are a few things I always watch for. First, I take into consideration the material the frame is made of, and the condition it is in. Generally, I am drawn to simple wood frames or more ornate gilded picture frames from the Victorian period.
If the frame appears in good condition with only normal wear and tear for its age, I’ll flip the frame over to examine the back.
Step Two
The back of a picture frame will give you many clues to its age. If it still contains its original art or photo, the back will often be covered in brown paper. The paper will likely be very fragile with tears, rips, or water damage. If the back is not covered, you may see the art is held in place with small finishing nails, this is another good indication that the piece is very old.
Step Three
The final clue I look for when determining if a frame is old or not is how it is constructed. Vintage frames will be joined with nails (you will see them on the outside corners of the frames) or brace plates.
How to Frame Art Using Vintage Picture Frames
Step One
Once I bring my vintage frames home, I begin the process of replacing the art. I start by carefully taking the frame apart. I use a knife to cut away the original paper backing and remove the original art and glass. I also remove all of the old hardware, like the finishing nails and wire.
Step Two
Next, I carefully clean the glass with Windex and set it aside to dry (only if I plan to use the glass again). While the glass is drying, I use a damp cloth to gently wipe down the frame.
Step Three
Prepare your art to be framed by ensuring it is the correct size for the frame and re-assemble it. You can use new finishing nails or reuse the original ones to secure the art in the frame. I also add brown kraft paper adhered with kraft tape to the back of the frame too, this just helps to create a snug fit and hold the art in place. If I plan to hang the art (instead of leaning it on a shelf or in a hutch) I will add new picture wire as well to ensure it is secure for hanging.
A Few More Tips
Depending on the size of the frame and the look I am after, I will sometimes add a new photo matte to the frame (or replace an existing matte if it is starting to yellow or is damaged). Mattes are a great way to really accentuate a piece of art and create a professional look.
The last decision to make before hanging up your new piece of art is whether or not to cover it with glass. Generally, I like to leave the glass out of the frame for a more authentic look.
Historically, oil and acrylic paintings done on canvas were not framed with glass because they were less vulnerable to damage. However, watercolours and pencil sketches were done on paper which required the extra protection of glass when framed.
We hope you’ve found these tips helpful and feel inspired to add a new piece of art to your home!
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