Fabulous Frames

I was shopping is this great children’s boutique several months ago and came across these geourgous picture frames I just “HAD TO HAVE”! They ranged is prices of $89-$189… WHAT the Flock?!?!?! I was shocked and intrigued at the same time. I thought to myself, “I can do that!” ( How many times have you heard that voice?) I began looking on Etsy and of course found numerouse frames with ribbons, buttons and bows. They were all cute, but not exqusite like the ones I found previously. SO what’s a girl to do who “HAS TO HAVE IT” or she looses sleep? (And will go stir crazy till either she aquires one herself or makes one to prove she can.) So here’s my latest tutorial for you so you can sleep a bit better than I!

Vintage Chic

Materials Needed:
*Beautiful Rhinestone Brooch (*Please read about my antique brooch shopping below)
*Exquisite Ribbons. Two different widths, approximately 1 yard each (Preferably wire edge).
*Picture frame (**preferably flat edge with little detail)
*Epoxy (just a bit will go a long way!)
*1-Zip-tie

Step 1a:
Find exquisite ribbon! You will need two different width ribbons. I used one apoxamitly 2in. wide and the other 1 1/2 in. wide.

Texture is Key

Step 1b:
Find a vintage brooch. I find the BEST at “Thrill of the Hunt” in Greensboro, NC.

Don't skimp my dear!!!

Step 1c:
Find a beautiful picture frame. I’m not too pickey here, just make sure it’s wide enough to make that “wow” staement.

You can even use one you have

Step 2:
Cut Ribbon to length desired to fit length of frame (make sure to make one loop and one piece straight). This is one of those steps you have to either eyeball (like me) or pre-measure after you get your frame and can determine how long you need it (at least 3 1/2 widths of frame length)

Make sure to get enough!

Step 3:
Fold ribbon to look like a bow (don’t tie or it will be too bunched). Lay straight piece under looped piece and lay the skinny on top of the wide.

make sure to add the end pieces too

Step 4:
Pinch together with fingers in mid section.

should've gotten a manicure

Step 5:
Zip-tie to hold together ribbon (not too tight).

cinch a little, not too tight

Step 6:
Use Epoxy glue to hold ribbon and zip tie together. Add brooch to epoxy and let dry. {Note: Please read directions to Epoxy before use… IT’S PERMANENT FOLKS!!!}

This stuff is for REAL!!!

Step 7:
Epoxy the ribbon/brooch to the frame. Let Dry. You might possibly have to vice grip it if it can’t hold it’s place.

Fluff ribbon to beautify!

Step 8:
Add a beautiful picture and enjoy. You can use this frame idea for that special someone’s anniversary, add a little pink or powder blue and use it for a christening gift… this exquisite gift is timeless and memorable!!!

*Now for the brooch… You can buy some cheap brooch if you choose. I found that those kind didn’t give me that “WOW” factor I was going for and decided to splurge on this particular piece. I found my fabulous antiqued pin at this fun little shop in Greensboro called “Thrill of the Hunt“. This great store has fun finds and beautiful furniture, but what got me hooked was the vintage jewelry. There are several different price ranges to choose from ($18-$88). I went mid-range for my shinny little gem. I can now see why the original frames I was acquiring about were so pricey! Trust me… it’s all in the look, so if you can find one of your grand mother’s pieces hidden in a treasure trove, grab one and make her a gift she can look at everyday!!!

**As far as the frame… I went less expensive and found this particular one at Michael’s with my 50% off coupon. I had been on the hunt for another frame, but ran out of time for this post and went with what I could. I like the end result after all and made me not feel so bad about buying the beautiful brooch!!!