Creative Techniques to Decorate Frames

Frames do more than support your art—they can become artwork in their own right. Whether you’re refreshing an old frame or customizing one to match your mosaic by tiling or painting the frame, decorating frames is a fun, accessible DIY project. Here are several creative techniques to transform plain frames into statement pieces, using materials you may already have at home.

1. Mosaic Frames: Small Pieces, Big Impact

Mosaic frames are bold, colorful, and full of texture. This technique involves attaching small pieces—such as broken tiles, glass, mirror shards, or even seashells—to the frame surface.

Style tips:

Use mirrored tiles for a glamorous look.
Choose muted ceramics for rustic or Mediterranean décor.

2. Painted Frames: Endless Color Possibilities

Painting is one of the easiest and most versatile ways to decorate frames. You can keep it minimal or go all out with patterns, textures and effects.

Popular painting ideas:

Thickly applied paint: Create textures, designs, etc.
Solid colors: Matte black, white, or pastels for a clean look.
Ombre effects: Gradual color transitions for a modern vibe.
Patterns: Stripes, florals, polka dots, or geometric designs.
Distressed finishes: Light sanding after painting for a vintage feel.

Pro tip: Acrylic paints are beginner-friendly and dry quickly. Acrylic works perfect with our Skeewbacker frames!

3. Embellished Frames: Add Dimension and Detail

Embellishments bring dimension and personality to frames. This technique works beautifully for gifts, kids’ rooms, or themed décor.

Embellishment ideas:

Buttons, beads, pearls, or rhinestones
Wooden cutouts or laser-cut shapes
Metal charms, keys, or small trinkets
Fabric flowers or ribbon trims

Design advice:

Stick to one theme or color palette to avoid clutter.
Balance is key—decorate evenly or intentionally cluster elements.

4. Textured Frames: Tactile and Artistic

Texture adds depth and a tactile quality that instantly elevates a frame. This approach works especially well in modern, boho, or abstract interiors.

Ways to add texture:

Spread modeling paste or plaster with a palette knife.
Mix sand into paint for a gritty effect.
Use colored thin set to add texture/patterns.
Use stencils to create raised patterns.
Layer tissue paper or gauze under paint for subtle texture.

Finish ideas:

Paint over texture in monochrome shades for sophistication.
Dry-brush highlights to emphasize raised areas.

5. Fabric- and Paper-Wrapped Frames

Wrapping frames in fabric or paper is perfect for coordinating with a room’s textiles or creating seasonal décor.

Materials that work well:

Cotton fabric, burlap, denim
Scrapbook paper or wrapping paper
Wallpaper samples
Book pages or sheet music

6. Natural & Upcycled Frame Designs

For an eco-friendly or organic look, decorate frames with natural or repurposed materials.

Creative options:

Twigs, bark, or dried leaves
Rope, jute, or twine wrapping
Wine corks or driftwood pieces
Old jewelry or hardware

Final Thoughts

Unlike traditional frames, Skeewbacker Frames don’t box your art in—they extend it. The result can be a striking dimensional effect that lets your artwork pop off the wall while giving you total control over how your frame interacts with both the wall and the art itself.

So grab a Skeewbacker frame, experiment with materials, and let your creativity frame the moment—literally.