How to Turn a Simple Frame into a Ballerina-Themed Masterpiece

Have you ever dreamed of turning an ordinary picture frame into a stunning piece of art fit for a gallery? Donna from Mason Creations etc. shows us exactly how to do it in her latest video tutorial, where she transforms a simple plastic frame into an elegant ballerina masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting, this project is perfect for anyone looking to explore the art of decoupage and mixed media.

Watch the video below to follow along with Donna’s step-by-step process, and then get ready to create your own beautiful artwork!

Step 1: Prepare the Frame and Canvas

Donna begins by disassembling the picture frame and trimming her canvas to fit inside. She applies a generous coat of white gesso to the canvas, allowing the paint to glide on smoothly and ensuring a polished finish. Once dry, she creates a stunning ombre background using four carefully selected shades of paint: Wild Orchid, Light Orchid, Lavender Sachet, and a custom pale pink. Remember, dampen your sponges slightly before blending the colors for the smoothest transitions.

Step 2: Transform the Frame

To give the plastic frame a luxurious look, Donna applies Polyvine’s Multi-surface Lacquer, creating a perfect base for Pentart’s White Gold metallic paint. The result is a shimmering, elegant frame that belies its humble origins. After letting the paint dry, she adds texture with a crackle finish using Dixie Belle Chalk Paint in Cotton. The cracked effect reveals the metallic paint underneath, giving the frame a vintage charm.

Step 3: Create the Ballerina and Swirls

The centerpiece of this project is a delicate ballerina figure made from Das air-dry clay. Donna carefully molds the ballerina and additional decorative swirls using a Re-design Greco Crest mold, all available on DecoupageNapkins.com. She brushes the molds with cornstarch before adding the clay, ensuring easy removal without damaging the intricate details. After a brief stay in the freezer, the ballerina is ready to take center stage.

Step 4: Assemble and Embellish

Once the canvas and frame are prepared, Donna uses craft glue to secure the canvas inside the frame and attaches the ballerina figure to the ombre background. For a touch of whimsy, she decoupages fussy-cut flowers from rice paper onto the canvas using Polyvine Heavy-Duty Wood Varnish as an adhesive. This technique prevents any unsightly lumps or bubbles, ensuring a flawless finish.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Donna loves a bit of bling, and this project is no exception! She sprinkles diamond dots around the edges of the canvas, adhering them with a slightly thicker coat of the Polyvine varnish. A final sprinkle of gold and silver glitter gives the piece a magical, ethereal glow.

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Donna’s expertise and creativity shine through in this beautiful project, and we’re so grateful to have her as a special affiliate. Be sure to check out the video tutorial above, and don’t forget to explore the wide range of products available at DecoupageNapkins.com to start your own crafting journey. Happy crafting!