Painting and Finishing Wooden Picture Frames

While not all wooden picture frames require finishes, using wood finishes can have practical and aesthetic advantages. Finishes used for wooden picture frames are typically used to protect the wood from dust and decay. In some cases, a finish can also create a glossy effect over the wood, which may be exactly what the painting needs.

With so many options for finishes available, deciding exactly how to best finish or paint your wooden picture frames can be difficult. The experts at St. Charles Hardwoods have experience creating and finishing wooden picture frames. We can offer advice on finishing frames and help you select the best frames for your needs. To learn more about our stock of picture frames available or to talk with our woodworking experts, visit our stores today.

What Finishes Can You Apply On Wooden Picture Frames?

While the task of applying finishes to wooden picture frames is not particularly challenging, it is important to know what finishes are ideal for different wood types. Some wood types are not accommodating towards different finishes, causing them to lose strength and durability and making them more susceptible to decay and dust.

There are hundreds of finish brands on the market but typically, finishes can be grouped into five broad categories. These categories include:

• Oil Finishes: Oil finishes are one of the oldest and most commonly used finishes on the market. Oils are extremely successful in protecting wood from decaying because oil is easily absorbed by most woods. Oil finishes seep into the grain of the wood. Consequently, wooden picture frames with oil finishes never look as if they have a protective coat over them. Two popular kinds of oil finishes used are linseed oil and tung oil. Both of these finishes can take a long time to dry unless they are mixed with drying additives.
• Varnishes: Varnishes are probably the most effective finishes on the market when it comes to protecting wood. However, it is uncommon for wooden picture frames to be finished with varnish. Varnish is a combination of oil and resin. For wooden picture frames that are prone to weathering, varnish may be used. Varnish however also takes a long time to dry.
• Shellac: Shellac is another finish that offers effective protection and creates a high shine look. While, shellac is not very effective on wood products that endure much wear and tear like tabletops and chairs, shellac can be used to finish wooden picture frames. Shellac is alcohol based and is fast drying as well. Shellac is also available in a variety of different colors.
• Lacquer: Lacquer is a finish that is not commonly used for wooden picture frames, but it can be used to create a unique, shiny look. Lacquer is extremely fast drying and it is typically applied using a spray gun.
• Water Based Finishes: Water based finishes are also sometimes used to treat wooden picture frames. Water-based finishes offer mild protection and are usually used for wood products, which do not experience harsh change temperature or humidity. These finishes, are far less durable than their alternatives.

Find Great Wooden Picture Frames at St. Charles Hardwoods

St. Charles Hardwoods offers a huge range of wooden picture frames in all types and sizes. We have a team of dedicated professionals that can advise you on how to maintain your picture frames or finish your picture frames to create any look you desire. Our staff has extensive experience and expertise in the industry and keeps up to date with the latest trends and innovations in order to serve you best.

To see our selection of wooden picture frames available and to find the picture frame that is the perfect for your paintings and photographs, visit our St. Louis or St. Charles store or contact our hardwood lumber company today.