painting wood picture frames

2 questions:

1. do i need to prime the frames? they are plain, unfinished light-colored wood

2. what kind pf paint do i need to use?

TIA!!

Re: painting wood picture frames

If you plan to cover the entire frame I would prime them. You can pick up a small container of gesso, the gesso will make it so you use less of your pigmented paint (the wood won't be soaking it all up)

You could use any kind of paint, it really depends on what you are doing. I prefer oil to acrylic because you have more time to work, but oil requires solvents and ventilation. Acrylics can be great, if you need more working time you can buy mediums that will extend the dry time.

You can also use the craft paints that come in the little bottles, they are also water based, clean up easily and are super cheap. I don't know much about longevity of these paints. but you could always put a clear coat of poly over the frame when you are done to help prevent chipping of the paint.

Re: painting wood picture frames