How To Make Dollar Tree Frames Look More Authentically Vintage

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Who doesn't love old picture frames? They're excellent for giving your home a sophisticated vibe — and you can oftentimes find them at thrift stores like Goodwill. If you're lucky, you might even have some tucked away in your own attic! But if not, there are easy ways to make Dollar Tree photo frames look like they're vintage treasures. Since they only cost $1.25 each, it's not too pricey of a project if you'd like to transform several frames or place them all over your house. Although they come from Dollar Tree — by the time you're through, they certainly won't look like it.

Many vintage frames are gold and have lots of charming details. Dollar Tree's Gold-Framed Decorative Chalkboards are perfect for upgrading — since they already have the base look of being vintage home décor. However, you also need black spray paint, antique gold Rub 'N Buff, a sponge brush, and some unique photos to go inside the frames. Start by spray painting your frames all black and let them dry in the sun. Then, go over the frames with the Rub 'N Buff, using a dabbing technique, and watch them come to life. The gold and black combination highlights the details, creating a gorgeous antique look.

Now that the frames are completely transformed, selecting photos or prints that match the style will make them look even more authentic. One idea is to grab prints that look old-fashioned, whether it be of landscapes or flowers. Take some Mod Podge and paint a thick white layer on the print using a bristle brush. It'll dry clear, but the brush strokes will remain, making it seem like a genuine piece of artwork. Another idea is to use old black and white photographs that you could either get from a relative — or see if you can find some at an antique shop. If you have ones of family members from the past, you could create the perfect gallery wall in honor of them.

It's possible to make Dollar Tree frames look amazingly vintage with other ideas, too. If you come across a plain wood one, it can be upgraded by painting it an almond color, then adding metal accents, like these Antique Bronze Decorative Corners. Instead of displaying traditional photos, you could insert old sheets of music, book pages, sketches, newspaper clippings, or pressed flowers. Hang them in clusters on the wall, or they would make beautiful decorations for weddings or other events. With a little creativity, no one will guess they're from Dollar Tree.