Last Updated on August 30, 2024 by Team Ideas24
Want to display your favorite photos at home in a beautifully unique way? This gorgeous DIY twig picture frame is the perfect solution. It looks super expensive, yet it’s as easy as it is, and it’s so cheap to do!
You only need to collect twigs from your backyard or neighborhood for this project. In fact, we don’t recommend buying treated twigs from the craft store because real ones, well, give the most authentic look.
Look for dead, brown twigs instead of green ones and check to make sure there are no insects or signs of decay. After collecting, rinse them and let them dry before proceeding to the actual project.
Now you can buy a simple wooden craft for your base, but it would be better if you can find an old or secondhand picture display. In other words, this project is also perfect for giving old, boring picture displays a new look!
This idea for displaying family photos, artwork, or as a wedding decoration is not just great for its aesthetic value, but also for its sentimental value. For many, family is everything, and what better way to display that than to have a beautiful display of family photos. This is also a great way to show off artwork, whether it be from a family member or a professional artist. And finally, this makes for great wedding decoration, as it is both beautiful and meaningful.
Is this your kind of project you like? Then learn how to make your own beautiful version by heading to the tutorial linked below our album.
You’ll need the following tools and materials to make this project.
Contents
Building a Twig Picture Frame
- Wooden Craft Frame
- Brown Acrylic Paint
- 40-50 Small Twigs
- Decorative Faux Moss and Flowers
- Pruning Shears
- Foam Brush
- Hot Glue Gun
You can choose from the following beautiful designs to make your own memorable twig display.
Cute twig picture frame designs
Click on any image to start the lightbox display. Use your Esc key to close the lightbox. ?
Steps
1. Painting the twig picture frame
Dry the frame after painting it. Remove the glass and backing from the frame. With the foam brush, paint one coat of brown acrylic paint on the frame. After one hour, let it dry.
2. Prepare by trimming the twigs
Make sure the twigs are trimmed to fit the frame’s length and width.
Pruning shears should be used to trim the twigs about 1/4 inch longer than the length and width of the frame while the paint is drying. The twigs can be divided into two piles based on their length and width. Make sure your glue gun is hot.
3. Make this stronger by gluing the biggest twigs
The frame should be covered with larger twigs. Once the paint has dried, place a few of the larger twigs along the length and width. To secure them, apply a small dab of hot glue where they touch the frame.
4. Increase the number of twigs and secure them
Glue the twigs together and keep adding them.
Little by little, overlap the twigs at the corners. A small amount of hot glue should be applied wherever the twigs touch; sometimes it will be the structure, and sometimes it will be another stick. As you work, add twigs evenly to the four sides.
5. Underneath larger twigs, tuck small twigs
Once all holes have been filled, stop.
Under larger twigs, tuck smaller twigs as the frame grows. You only need a small amount of glue to secure. If the smaller twigs fit snugly, they don’t need to be glued. It is complete when there is no more opening for another twig.
6. Flowers and decorative moss can be added
A spring-like frame is adorned with moss and flowers.
Use silk flowers and decorative moss to embellish. Apply hot glue to secure them.
You can get step-by-step instructions from Jessica Begum over at eHow…
Preservation Tips for Natural Materials
When crafting with natural elements like twigs, it’s crucial to ensure their longevity so your creations, such as a twig picture frame, maintain their beauty over time. Here are some effective techniques to treat and preserve twigs and other natural materials for your crafting projects.
Choosing the Right Twigs
Before starting your twig picture frame, selecting the right twigs is essential. Opt for those that are dry and free from signs of rot or insect damage. Dry twigs are less prone to deterioration and are easier to preserve.
Cleaning and Drying
Once you’ve gathered your twigs for the twig picture frame, clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or bugs. A gentle scrub with soapy water followed by a clear water rinse usually suffices. Allow the twigs to air dry completely in a sunny spot to reduce moisture, which can lead to decay.
Sealing the Twigs
To prevent the twigs in your twig picture frame from losing their natural look and to protect them from environmental factors, apply a clear wood sealer. This can be done using a brush or spray, ensuring even coverage. The sealer not only enhances the durability of the twigs but also gives your twig picture frame a polished finish.
Avoiding Direct Sunlight and Moisture
Even after your twig picture frame is complete, placement is key to preservation. Keep the frame away from direct sunlight and high moisture areas. Prolonged exposure to harsh conditions can degrade the natural materials faster, diminishing the aesthetic value of your twig picture frame.
Advanced Decorating Techniques for Twig Picture Frames
Creating a twig picture frame is not only an opportunity to craft something beautiful but also a chance to apply advanced decorating techniques that can transform a simple frame into a stunning piece of art. Below are some innovative ideas to elevate your twig picture frame, making it a centerpiece of any room decor.
Incorporating Color and Texture
- Staining the Twigs: To add depth and richness to your twig picture frame, consider staining the twigs. Use wood stains available in various shades from light oak to dark walnut. This technique can bring out the natural grain of the twigs and allow for a more uniform color throughout the frame.
- Painting Techniques: For a more vibrant twig picture frame, experiment with different painting techniques. Dry brushing a light color over a darker base coat can highlight the texture of the twigs, giving the frame an aged or weathered look. Choose acrylic or outdoor paints for better adherence and durability.
Enhancing with Lighting
- Integrating LED Lights: Adding small LED lights to your twig picture frame can create a warm, inviting glow. Embed the lights along the inner edge of the frame, ensuring they are evenly spaced to illuminate the displayed picture beautifully. This technique is perfect for making your frame a focal point in low-light settings.
- Backlighting Effects: For a dramatic effect, consider installing a backlight behind the twig picture frame. Use thin, flexible LED strips that can be hidden behind the frame to cast a soft halo on the wall. This backlighting not only enhances the frame’s appearance but also adds depth to the overall wall display.
Applying Metallic Finishes
- Gold Leafing: For a touch of luxury, apply gold leaf to selected twigs within your frame. This method involves brushing on adhesive size to the twigs and then applying thin sheets of gold leaf, creating a striking contrast against the natural wood. A twig picture frame with gold accents can serve as an elegant addition to sophisticated decor themes.
- Metallic Sprays and Foils: Metallic spray paints or foils can be used to coat the twigs in your picture frame. Silver, bronze, or copper finishes can give your twig picture frame an industrial or rustic metal look, which is very trendy in contemporary home styling.
Adding Textural Elements
- Embedding Stones and Beads: Enhance your twig picture frame by embedding small stones, beads, or crystals into the twigs using a strong adhesive. This technique adds sparkle and texture, making the frame catch the eye from different angles.
- Using Fabric and Thread: Wrap twigs in strips of fabric or colored thread to introduce color and texture contrasts. This can be particularly effective in a themed room or as a way to match your twig picture frame with other decor elements like cushions or curtains.
Seasonal Customizations
- Seasonal Decorations: Customize your twig picture frame for different seasons. Attach thematic decorations such as faux autumn leaves, spring blossoms, or winter berries. These can be easily changed as seasons pass, keeping your decor fresh and relevant.
- Thematic Charms and Symbols: For a more personal touch, attach small charms or symbols that reflect your interests or memories. This could include miniature coastal shells, vintage keys, or small photographs. These embellishments make your twig picture frame uniquely yours and can tell a story through its decor.
By applying these advanced decorating techniques, your twig picture frame can transcend its rustic beginnings to become a bespoke artifact, rich in creativity and personal expression. Each technique offers a different aesthetic that can be tailored to your specific style or the ambiance of the room, ensuring that your twig picture frame is not just a holder of memories but a piece of art in its own right.
For more ways of making your memories into decorations, check out our guide to transfer photo to canvas!
