The July 2026 exclusive StencilClub collection, designed by Carolyn Dube, couldn't have arrived at a better time. Carolyn's collection is filled with organic circles and dots in a variety of sizes. The shapes immediately reminded me of river rocks, pebbles, and gravel—those wonderfully imperfect patterns that nature creates without ever repeating itself. I've always been drawn to circles and dots, so I couldn't wait to incorporate these stencils into a project.
With an art show coming up, my studio has been filled with the smell of varnish and stacks of frames waiting for artwork. Instead of purchasing a new frame, I rescued a plain wooden one from a local thrift store and transformed it into a custom frame that perfectly complements one of my pink collages.
The entire makeover took very little time, cost only a few dollars, and completely changed the personality of the frame.
Supplies
- July 2026 StencilClub Stencils by Carolyn Dube
- Plain wooden picture frame
- Rust-Oleum® Matte Spray Paint in Gray
- Rust-Oleum® Paint + Primer Spray Paint in Pink
- Clear spray varnish
- Disposable gloves
- Wallpaper, cardboard, or a drop cloth to protect your work surface
- Finished collage or artwork
- Optional: Painter's tape (for larger frames)
Step 1: Prepare the Frame
Before painting, wipe the frame thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, or any residue. A clean surface helps the paint adhere evenly and creates a smoother finish.
Since spray paint fumes can be harmful, always work outdoors or in a very well-ventilated space. I took my frame outside and laid down a large piece of old wallpaper to protect my deck from overspray. Gloves are also a good idea to keep your hands clean.
Step 2: Apply the Base Coat
I wanted a soft neutral background that would allow the stencil pattern to stand out, so I coated the entire frame—including the sides—with Rust-Oleum Matte Gray Spray Paint.
One of the reasons I reach for Rust-Oleum is that it's easy to find at stores like Walmart and Target, it's affordable, and it provides excellent coverage. I especially like the Paint + Primer formulas because they bond well to a variety of surfaces without requiring additional preparation.
Allow the gray paint to dry for at least an hour before moving on.
Step 3: Add the Stenciled Design
Once the gray paint was dry, I positioned Carolyn's stencil directly onto the frame.
Because my frame was fairly small, I simply held the stencil in place by hand. If you're working on a larger frame, painter's tape can help prevent the stencil from shifting.
Using Rust-Oleum Matte Pink Spray Paint, I sprayed directly over the stencil, making two light passes to build up the color without creating drips.
Carefully lift the stencil away and let the design dry for several hours.
The random arrangement of dots creates movement across the frame while still allowing the simplicity of the design to shine.
Step 4: Protect the Finish
After the paint had completely dried, I sprayed the entire frame with a clear varnish. This extra protective layer helps guard against scratches and scuffs while making the finish easier to wipe clean.
The following day, once everything had thoroughly cured, I cut my collage to fit and assembled the frame.
The finished piece looked like it had been custom-made specifically for the artwork inside.
Why Spray Paint is Perfect for Upcycling
Spray paint has become one of my favorite tools for giving secondhand items a fresh start.
Not only does it provide excellent coverage with very little effort, but it also reaches carved details, grooves, and corners that would be tedious to paint with a brush. The finish is smooth and even, helping inexpensive or worn objects look surprisingly professional.
Another advantage is speed. Large surfaces can be completely transformed in just a few minutes, making spray paint ideal for quick creative projects. It also adheres beautifully to a wide variety of materials—including wood, metal, wicker, plastic, and even some laminates—making it incredibly versatile for artists and makers.
More Ideas for Upcycling with Spray Paint
Once you begin looking around your home or local thrift store, you'll find endless possibilities.
Try giving new life to:
- Picture frames
- Wooden trays
- Small side tables
- Plant pots
- Metal baskets
- Candle holders
- Lamps
- Magazine holders
- Decorative boxes
- Shelves
- Wooden crates
- Mirror frames
- Serving trays
- Coat hooks
- Vintage tins
Many of these items can become beautiful studio storage or decorative accents that coordinate perfectly with your artwork.
A Custom Finish for Your Artwork
One of the things I love most about making my own frames is that they become part of the artwork itself. Rather than settling for a store-bought frame that almost matches, I can create one that echoes the colors, patterns, and personality of the collage inside. It's a simple project that makes finished artwork feel even more personal—and it's a wonderful reminder that creativity doesn't have to stop at the edge of the paper.
Join StencilClub!
If you've been curious about StencilClub, now is the perfect time to join. Members who sign up before the 15th of the month will receive that month's exclusive stencil collection, including Carolyn Dube's beautiful July 2026 designs.
In addition to receiving an exclusive stencil set each month, members also enjoy:
- An exclusive stencil collection that is never sold individually
- A downloadable project tutorial and PDF from the featured artist
- An additional members-only project created by me
- 25% off regularly priced stencils from StencilGirl Products throughout your membership
Whether you're a mixed media artist, journal maker, collage enthusiast, or simply enjoy experimenting with new techniques, StencilClub is a wonderful way to add fresh inspiration to your creative practice each month.
I hope this project inspires you to take a second look at those overlooked thrift store frames. With a little spray paint, a great stencil, and a favorite piece of artwork, you can transform something ordinary into a custom frame that's every bit as creative as the art it holds. I hope you will share your projects with me on my Instagram page @gluepaperscissors_ and Stencil Girl @stencilgirl_products
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