DIY Gold Leaf Frame with Pressed Lavender

A Simple how-to for a French style gold leaf frame with pressed lavender and a look at the new book – French Vintage Decor packed full of DIY French decor.

I’m so thrilled to be sharing this sweet DIY gold leaf frame with pressed lavender. This is a project from my sweet friend Jamie’s new book – “French Vintage Decor.” Jamie blogs at So Much Better With Age and is such a talent who’s home is a constant inspiration to me. I was beyond honored when she sent me a copy of her beautiful book to complete a project from. There’s so many pretty French style home projects in the book but this gold leaf frame and lavender is one of my favorites!

Gold Leaf Frame

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What you need:

1. Frame in the desired size. (I used an 8 x 10 frame.)
2. Light beige or cream craft paint
3. Unibond or wood glue
4. Paint brush
5. Imitation gold leaf sheets
6. Gilding glue
7. Wooden applique
8. Dry paint/chip brush

What To Do:

1. Start by using a little wood glue or Unibond to adhere your wooden applique to your frame.
2. Use a paint brush to give you frame a coat of cream paint of choice.
3. Once the paint is dry, apply your gilding glue on the front , inside and outside of the frame and allow to sit according to their instructions.
4. Apply the sheets of imitation gold leafing and smooth with your finger. Brush away the excess with a dry paint brush. You can leave cracks so that the paint shows through giving it a distressed look or go over those places with more leafing.

Pressed Lavender In Frame

What you need:

1. Dried lavender stems
2. Cream/White textured cardstock

What to do:

1. Pick a few dried lavender stems and cut to a length that will fit into your frame.
2. Cut a piece of white watercolor paper to the size of your frame and arrange your lavender stems onto it. (You can take your stems and sandwich between two piece of paper towels and press between several heavy books first if you choose.)
3. Carefully place the frame and glass over it so that the stems stay in place. You can also use a spray adhesive if you choose. I did not and my stems have stayed in place just fine so it completely optional.

Isn’t it just lovely? It’s adds the perfect French touch to any space.

Jamie’s book is truly such a treat. Aside from the pretty how-to’s, the photos of her home and of France are just gorgeous! There are several projects I can’t wait to try. You can grab your copy here. I know you’ll love it as much as I do!