First let’s lay the groundwork with a beautiful, fall color palette. Of course you can choose from any of our 50+ chalk furniture paint colors, but here’s what our color experts have dreamed up:

• Belle of the Ball (powder blue)
• Hurricane (cool, dark grey)
• Wisteria (light purple)
• Peacoat (navy blue)
• Simplicity (crisp white)
• Opulence (deep purple)

The possibilities are endless with DIY wedding decor, but we’ve chosen our top 3 favorite winter wonderland decoration projects to share with you today.

1. Painted Picture Frames
2. White Washed Decor
3. DIY Cake Stand

Painting Picture Frames

Picture frames are an easy and inexpensive way to personalize signage around your wedding, whether it be instructions for your guest book, bar menus, table numbers, or even pictures of loved ones who could not make it to your special day.

Keep an eye out at thrift stores to find beautiful frames in every shape and size! Remember to look at shape, not color. You can transform your frames in any Country Chic Paint color to match your wedding theme!

Materials Needed:

• Picture frames (wood, metal, or plastic)
• Country Chic Paint in any colors of your choice
• Synthetic bristle paint brush
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Clear Coat or Wax (optional)
• Drop cloth or protective covering
• Decorative elements (e.g., ribbon, flowers, or other embellishments, optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Picture Frames

If your frames have glass, remove the glass and backing from the picture frames before painting. Keep safe to reassemble later.

Step 2: Clean the Frames

Ensure the frames are clean and free from dust or dirt. Wipe them with a damp cloth and let them dry completely.

Step 3: Sand & Prep the Frames

Lightly sand the frames with fine-grit sandpaper to create a better surface for the paint to adhere to. Wipe off any dust with a clean, dry cloth.

If your frames are metal or plastic, it’s best to apply a coat of Clear Bonding Primer to ensure the paint will be not only beautiful, but durable.

Step 4: Apply the Base Color

Using a synthetic bristle paint brush, apply a thin, even coat of Country Chic Paint to the entire frame. Ensure you cover all sides and any intricate details. Allow the paint to dry completely (usually 1-2 hours).

Step 5: Apply a Second Coat (Optional)

If needed, apply a second coat for better coverage. Let it dry completely.

Step 6: Distress the Frames (Optional)

If you prefer a distressed or shabby-chic look, lightly sand the edges and raised areas with fine-grit sandpaper. This gives the frames a rustic or vintage appearance.

Step 7: Apply Clear Coat or Wax (Optional)

To protect your frames and ensure extra durability, you may want to apply a clear top coat or wax. This will help preserve the paint and add a subtle sheen. Click here for more tips on how to apply Clear Coat, or here for Furniture Wax instructions.

Step 8: Reinsert the Glass and Backing

Once the frames are completely dry and sealed, carefully reinsert the glass and backing. If you are planning to add flowers or other decorative items, you do not need to reinsert the glass. If that’s the case, be sure to store or dispose of the glass properly.

Step 9: Add Decorative Elements (Optional)

You can add additional decorative elements such as glitter, ribbons, flowers, or other embellishments to the frames for a more personalized touch.

Use the frames for various purposes, like table numbers, photo displays, or signs. You can write on the glass with markers, insert printed paper, or use them to frame menus or seating charts.

White Washed Wood Decor

Click here for more detailed instructions on white washing wood furniture and decor.

White washing is a painting technique you could apply to just about any raw wood item whether it be palette wood decor like these stars, a beautiful vintage desk you’re using for your guest book table, or some candlesticks you’re using as a centerpiece.

Materials Needed:

• Wooden decor items (e.g., signs, frames, crates, furniture)
• Country Chic Paint (white or beige is most common for this technique)
• Synthetic Paint Brush / Painting Sponge
• Water
• Medium-grit sandpaper
• Clear Coat or Wax (optional)
• Drop cloth or protective covering

Step 1: Prepare the Wood

Ensure the wood is clean and free from dust or debris. Wipe it with a damp cloth and let it dry completely.

Step 2: Sand the Surface

Sand the wood with medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough areas. This step also helps to open the pores of the wood so it can soak up the color more readily. Wipe off any sanding dust with a clean, dry cloth.

Step 3: Dilute Your Paint

To achieve the white-wash effect, you’ll need to thin the paint with water. A common ratio is 1 part paint to 1 part water, but you can adjust the ratio depending on how transparent or opaque you want the white-wash effect to be.

Mix the paint and water thoroughly to ensure an even consistency.

Step 4: Apply the White-Wash

Using a chalk paint brush or foam brush, apply the diluted paint to the wood. Work in sections, as the paint will dry quickly. You can apply it in long strokes, following the grain of the wood.

Step 5: Wipe Off Excess Paint

Before the paint dries, use a rag or soft cloth to wipe off excess paint. This step creates the white-wash effect, allowing the wood grain to show through. The more you wipe, the more transparent the effect.

If you want a heavier white-wash, apply a second coat after the first one dries. Wipe off excess paint again for a consistent look.

Step 6: Distress the Wood (Optional)

If you’d like a more rustic look, you can lightly sand edges or raised areas after the paint has dried to create a distressed effect. This step is optional but adds character to the piece.

Step 7: Apply Clear Coat or Wax (optional)

To protect the paint and ensure durability, apply a clear sealer or wax over the entire crate. This step is crucial for outdoor weddings or if the crates will be handled frequently. Click here for tips on how to apply Clear Coat, or here for Furniture Wax instructions.

Once the sealer or wax is dry, you can use your white-washed wood decor for various wedding elements. It can be used for signs, table numbers, seating charts, or even centerpieces.

Painting a Cake Stand

Every wedding cake needs a beautiful cake stand! Why not paint your own to match your custom wedding color palette?

Materials Needed:

• Cake stand (wood, metal, or ceramic)
• Country Chic Paint in any colors of your choice
• Synthetic Paint Brush / Painting Sponge
• Fine-grit sandpaper (optional)
• Furniture Wax
• Drop cloth or protective covering

Step 1: Clean the Cake Stand

Make sure the cake stand is clean and free from dirt or grease. If it’s wooden, you might need to lightly sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. If it’s metal or ceramic, wipe it with a damp cloth and let it dry completely.

Step 2: Sand and Prime (Optional)

For wooden stands, lightly sand to remove rough edges or splinters, ensuring the surface is smooth. Wipe away any sanding dust with a clean, dry cloth.

If you’re painting a less porous material like metal or ceramic, it’s a good idea to apply a coat of Clear Bonding Primer to give the paint more to grip onto and ensure durability.

Step 3: Apply a Coat of Paint

Using a paint brush or sponge, apply an even coat of Country Chic Paint to the entire cake stand. Cover all visible areas, including the bottom and the stand’s edge. Allow the paint to dry completely (usually 1-2 hours).

Step 4: Apply a Second Coat (Optional)

If needed, apply a second coat for better coverage and a smoother finish. Let it dry completely.

Step 5: Make it Uniquely You

Stencils: If you’d like to add a pattern or design to the cake stand, use stencils. Secure them with painter’s tape and apply the paint carefully. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Distress: If you prefer a distressed look, lightly sand the edges or raised areas with fine-grit sandpaper to reveal some of the underlying material. This adds a rustic touch.

Step 6: Seal with Clear Wax

Using a soft cloth or wax brush, apply a thin layer of clear wax to the painted cake stand. Rub it in gently, ensuring even coverage.

After applying the wax, use a clean, soft cloth to buff the surface. This helps to set the wax and create a buttery smooth finish. Allow the wax to cure for 3-4 weeks for optimal durability.

Once the cake stand is fully cured, you can use it at your wedding for cakes, cupcakes, or other desserts. It will add a customized and charming touch to your event.