Create Artful Wood-Burned Frames with This Fun DIY Tutorial

Learn how to create a DIY colorful wood frame by combining the art of wood burning with bright nail polish. The result is a stunning, handcrafted piece.

Not only do you get to whip out your wood burner or soldering iron, but you also get to use your colorful nail polish. A double whammy on fun supplies!

I also get to show off my beautiful family!

• A wooden "made for crafting" frame

• A wood burner or soldering iron

• Nail polish

Step 1 - Draw a design on the frame

Choose what design you want to burn into the wood frame and draw it with a pencil.

I chose something easy because I'm not that experienced at wood burning.

(I grabbed a wooden medallion thingy to practice using the soldering iron on wood.)

I ended up using a different tip.

Step 2 - Go over design with wood burner

Choose a wood-burning tip, turn on your device, and trace your lines.

I chose a rounded tip and turned my device as hot as possible. This allowed me to trace quickly while getting a deeper engraving.

Unless you are experienced at wood burning, you will have some spots that burn deeper. I also found that it was easier to burn with the grain of the wood than against it. Going against the grain, it seemed my device would get stuck a little, so to speak.

Step 3 - Add some color with nail polish

Fill in the spaces between your design with nail polish.

I noticed that with one coat, the coloring came out uneven. You can see it in the lighter blue:

Step 4 - Add additional coats of polish if needed

Here's the same area of blue with a second coat added.

Step 5 - Print out a photo and stick it in your frame!

I left a few spaces unpainted so you can see the unfinished wood.

And you may be wondering why I chose nail polish. I originally planned on using liquid watercolors, but on my test medallion, I saw that the watercolor bled through the grain in the wood and traveled beyond my burn lines:

When I tested the nail polish, I loved how it gave an enameled look. You've got to try it. I can't wait to try nail polish on metal. I'm sure I'll make a tutorial for that soon—if it turns out. Not all my projects are winners. Maybe I'll make a "don't try this" post with all my flops someday.

Can I use nail polish as enamel paint?

Yes, nail polish can be used as enamel paint on small-scale projects and crafts. It dries to a hard, glossy finish and comes in a wide range of colors, including metallics and glitters. However, it's worth noting that while nail polish can mimic the look of enamel paint, it may not have the same durability or resistance to solvents and heat as traditional enamel paints specifically formulated for those purposes. It's best suited for decorative touches rather than surfaces undergoing heavy wear and tear.

Can I use other paints instead of nail polish?

Yes, you can use other paints instead of nail polish to decorate your wood-burned frame, depending on the effect you want to achieve. Here are some alternative options:

1. Acrylic Paint

• Pros: Easy to work with, comes in a wide range of colors, and can be mixed for custom shades.

• Cons: May require a sealant to protect the paint and add shine.

  
  

2. Oil Paint

• Pros: Rich, vibrant colors and a glossy finish.

• Cons: Takes longer to dry and may require thinner for cleanup.

  
  

3. Watercolor Paint

• Pros: Provides a soft, transparent look.

• Cons: May bleed into the wood grain unless sealed first, like in the wooden medallion above.

  
  

4. Wood Stain

• Pros: Highlights the natural grain of the wood while adding color.

• Cons: Limited color palette and not as vibrant as paint.

  
  

5. Markers or Paint Pens

• Pros: Great for precision and detail work.

• Cons: May require multiple coats for a bold look.

  
  

6. Spray Paint

• Pros: Easy to apply and provides an even coat.

• Cons: Can be more challenging to control and may require masking off areas.

  
  

7. Enamel Paint

• Pros: Similar to nail polish, with a durable and glossy finish.

• Cons: Strong smell and may require ventilation.

  
  

Tips for Using Alternative Paints:

• Test your chosen paint on a scrap piece of wood to see how it adheres and looks.

• Apply a clear sealant or varnish over your design to protect it, especially if using water-based paints.

• Consider the type of finish you want—glossy, matte, or textured—and choose paints accordingly.

  
  

Each type of paint can give your project a unique style, so feel free to experiment!

For another project using wood, check out my DIY Cabinet Knobs or Chair Makeover tutorials.

What designs would you burn on your frame? Share your ideas in the comments!