Want to achieve the priceless look of an oil painting without the price tag? The good news is, it’s easier than you think. Fake it using a print, an all-in- one glue, and a stroke of genius. Let us give you a step-by-step guide on how to turn a photo into an oil painting.
How to make vintage-inspired artwork in 9 easy steps
There’s nothing better than a good hack when you’re decorating on a budget. Vintage-inspired artwork is a returning trend, so go online and print out your favourite pieces, stock up on some paintable glue, brushes and thrifted frames, and get creative!
Materials:
- Printed artwork (see ‘For you to note’ below for online art image sources)
- Cardboard in the same size as print
- Matt Mod Podge
- Antique-style frame
- Paintbrushes in various sizes
- Sawtooth picture hangers
Step 1
Use a medium-sized brush to seal cardboard with Mod Podge. Allow to dry. The first coat preps the surface and helps to prevent any wrinkling.
Step 2
Using Mod Podge as a glue, apply a second coat, thickly, onto the cardboard with brush and carefully lay your print flat on the cardboard.
Step 3
Use your hand to press down firmly and smooth out print. You can also use the side of a ruler or a bone folder. With the same brush, apply another coat of Mod Podge to seal, covering completely. Allow to dry, about 1 hour. Sealing the print prevents ripping.
Step 4
Once the print has dried clear, apply another layer of Mod Podge, with brush, covering completely.
Step 5
Once the print is completely covered in Mod Podge, start channelling your inner Van Gogh. With the same brush, try to mimic the brush strokes of the original painting in thick strokes. Also, allow the Mod Podge to collect in areas with lots of colour variation.
Step 6
Using a smaller brush, mimic how a painter would stipple the clouds while painting, adding more texture to where it seems appropriate.
Step 7
Choose an even smaller brush to stipple the leaves on the painting.
Step 8
Now for the final touch. Use the finest brush in your arsenal to mimic the branches or any other fine details on the painting. Allow the Mod Podge to dry completely.
Step 9
Once the painting dries clear, it will look like the real deal. Remove the glass from your chosen frame and put your faux masterpiece into the frame. Sit the painting on a console or a shelf, or hang it on a wall. For a wall hanging, use a sawtooth hanger and apply tape around the frame edge to hold the backing in place.
Find cheap frames that look lavish at op shops, markets or online.
Tip:
How to get an antiquated painting effect in 2 steps
Give your faux still-life an aged, old-world finish with wood polish or wax. It’s been done to this beautifully simple fruit still-life – it’s so cézanne!
Materials
- Printed still-life sealed and finished with Mod Podge
- Dark wood polish or wax
- Clean cotton cloth
- Picture frame
Step 1
Dab some dark wood polish or wax on a dry cloth, then wipe cloth over whole artwork.
Step 2
As you wipe over the artwork, make sure you pay special attention to edges and details. Allow to dry, then frame.
