I almost didn’t blog about these, because they’re so simplistic. But I think they really do make a big difference, so here we are!
The first tip couldn’t be any easier and removes the glare on your artwork, the second does the same but also gives prints the look of actual brushstrokes.
I’ll use my wall of Audubon bird prints as an example for the first trick:
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Notice how you can see the art, instead of a reflection in the glass?
That’s because I removed the glass that came with the frames. I don’t toss it of course, but instead store it away behind the art in the frame:
It’s such a basic thing, but in certain rooms with a lot of overhead lighting or natural light…it makes a bigger difference than you think!
Now I can see the artwork instead of a glare.
Would I do this with precious art like watercolors or pencil drawings? Probably not. But for free artwork I printed at home, I think it’s a great idea!
The second little “hack” is one my blog friends and I were doing nearly 20 years ago. I had forgotten about it till recently.
I’ve done this on both store bought artwork and shiny art prints I’ve printed at home on photo paper or at quick print places.
The matte version of this decoupage is key here, as well as an actual bristled brush and not a foam brush.
I did this on inexpensive framed art I found at Hobby Lobby last year. This will go against everything in you, but dunk your brush into the Mod Podge and then start “painting” it onto your print:
In my experience, this is safe to do on any art medium like an mdf base, wood, or shiny high-gloss photo paper.
You can apply it in a thin layer or pretty thick — the fun part about this technique is that you can change it up depending on how obvious you want the brushstrokes to be.
The thicker you paint it on, the longer it will take to dry, but if it’s a thin coat it only takes about 10-15 minutes.
Here’s a closer look at how this looks when it dries:
The more you get comfortable with it, the thicker you can go with the Mod Podge.
Also, your brush technique will give you a different look. You can try an “X” application across the art, or add it with a swirly texture. It’s up to you!
I had it printed at CVS and when you pick it up the same day, a glossy print is the only option. You can have it printed in matte, but it is shipped and takes longer.
I’m not that patient, so this method is a quick fix that makes the prints matte in mere minutes:
The colors on the print will not bleed, so no worries about that. It doesn’t buckle or wrinkle the paper at all either.
Best part about this little trick is you can’t mess it up! No matter how you apply the brush strokes, it will look purposeful.
Now when I walk into my office, I see the art and not a glare from the glass or the glossy print:
Usually the brushstroke look is subtle, but as I mentioned, you can make it as thick as you want. I’ve never done more than one coat, but I’m assuming that would just add to the look.
These small changes are as simple as can be, and incredibly affordable!
I think removing the glass makes the biggest difference, and the brushstroke technique is more subtle. But the latter definitely adds a custom, matte look to even the cheapest art prints!
