How to Turn a Print into a Faux Authentic Oil Painting
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Are you looking for a creative way to turn your favorite art prints into beautiful oil paintings? In this blog post, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of how to turn a print into an authentic oil painting using your own photographs or any art print you love. Whether you are an experienced painter or just starting out, this technique is easy to follow and produces stunning results.
Transforming a print into a faux authentic oil painting can be a creative and cost-effective solution. In this blog post, I will guide you through the process of how to turn a print into a faux authentic oil painting that will capture the essence of a traditional oil painting style. With a few simple techniques, you can create a stunning piece of art that will enhance the aesthetic appeal of your living room wall and leave your guests in awe. So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to transforming a print into a faux authentic oil painting!

Whether you want to add creativity to your wall gallery or look like a vintage oil painting in your space, you can create your own inexpensively with paintbrushes and Mod Podge. Using Mod Podge with some simple techniques, you can transform any print into an authentic work of art that captures the beauty and detail of the original image & turns a photograph into an authentic oil painting.
How to Turn a Print into a Faux Authentic Oil Painting
Using these tools, you can create a beautiful oil painting that transforms any print into an authentic work of art. Converting a photo into an authentic oil painting can be challenging, but it is possible with suitable materials and techniques.

Supplies Needed to Create a Faux Authentic Oil Painting
Choose a paper print.
Select the print that you want to convert into an oil painting. Look for a high-quality image that has precise details and vivid colors.
Matte Mod Podge
This is a sealant that will help to protect your painting and give it brush strokes.
Brushes
You will need different-sized brushes to create various strokes and textures. Make sure to get high-quality brushes for the best results.
Rag or Paper Towel
Use a rag or paper towel to wipe your brushes clean between strokes.
Instructions for creating your very own faux painting
Continue painting until the entire print has been transformed into an oil painting. Take your time and be patient; this process can take a day or several days to complete.
Select your Print
The first thing to do is find a free print from one of the sites listed below or use one of your own and print on matte Cardstock for best results.
Paint
Next step, Start painting little brush strokes of Matte Modge Podge over the print. It doesn’t have to be perfect.
Let dry
Now, let the painting dry for a little bit. Paint again until you are happy with the result.
Once the painting is finished
Let it dry completely before varnishing to protect the surface and enhance the colors.
Trim to size
Use a paper trimmer or scissors to cut to the desired size for the frame.
Place in a frame without glass
Remove the glass from the frame for your print to look like an authentic painting.
Tip: Use a variety of brush strokes to create texture and depth in the painting.
Experiment with different brush sizes and shapes to achieve the desired effect. Take breaks as needed to allow the paint to dry. This is important for creating layers and preventing the colors from smudging. By following these steps, you can turn a print into an authentic oil painting that captures the beauty and detail of the original image. Remember that this process requires skill and patience, so don’t be discouraged if it takes time to perfect your technique.

How to create a Faux authentic oil painting on Canvas?
To create a faux authentic oil painting on canvas, you can follow these instructions:
Gather your materials
You will need a canvas board or foam board, a print of the artwork you want to replicate, acrylic paints, brushes, palette knives, a palette for mixing colors, and a varnish.
Prepare the canvas
If you’re using a canvas board or foam board, apply a coat of gesso to create a smooth and primed surface. This will help the paint adhere better.
Attach the print to the canvas: Carefully adhere the print onto the canvas or foam board using a spray adhesive. Ensure it is centered and smooths out any bubbles or wrinkles.
Create a textured background.
To mimic the texture of an oil painting, apply a layer of acrylic paint to the back of the canvas, creating random brushstrokes or texture patterns. This will give the illusion of a painted canvas surface.
Paint the artwork!
Using acrylic paints, start replicating the artwork on the print. Begin with the background and gradually work your way to the foreground. Pay attention to the original painting’s colors, details, and brushstrokes. Use palette knives to create texture and layer the paint for depth.
Extend the painting to the sides of the canvas.
Continuously paint the sides of the canvas so the artwork wraps around the edges. This creates a more finished and professional look.
Add final details
Once the main elements of the painting are complete, add any additional details, highlights, or shadows to enhance the depth and realism of the artwork.
Allow the painting to dry: Give sufficient drying time for the acrylic paint to fully dry. This may take a few hours to a few days, depending on the thickness of the paint layers.
Apply a varnish
Once the painting is completely dry, apply a layer of varnish to protect the surface and provide a glossy or matte finish, depending on your preference.
Following these instructions, you can create a faux authentic oil painting on canvas that resembles the real thing. Remember to focus on capturing the painting style, texture of the canvas, and the unique brushstrokes that give oil paintings their distinctive look. Enjoy the process, and have fun unleashing your creativity!

How to Choose a Frame?
Choosing the right frame for an original work of art or an actual painting can enhance its overall aesthetic appeal. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a frame:
- Style
Consider the style of the artwork and choose a frame that complements it. For instance, ornate frames work well with traditional and classical paintings, while sleek and minimalistic frames may be suitable for modern or contemporary artworks.
- Color
Choose a frame color that complements the colors in the painting. If the picture has a dominant color, choose a frame that matches or contrasts it.
- Size
The frame should be proportional to the painting. A large picture may require a thicker and more substantial frame, while a small painting may look better with a thinner frame.
- Material
Frames can be made from various materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic. Choose a material that complements the artwork and its surroundings.
- Conservation
If the artwork is valuable, consider using archival-quality materials to frame it. This will help protect the painting from damage and deterioration over time.

Ultimately, the frame should complement and enhance the artwork without overpowering it. Take your time and consider all the options to find the perfect frame for your original work of art or actual painting.
Where can free prints be found?
There are several websites and platforms where you can find free prints for personal use; yes, I said FREE! Remember that while these websites offer free photos, you may need to check their licensing terms and conditions to ensure you use them correctly. Here are a few options:
Unsplash
Unsplash offers a vast collection of high-quality photos and images that are free for personal or commercial projects.
Pexels
Pexels provides many free stock photos and images for personal or commercial purposes.
Pixabay
Pixabay is another platform that offers a wide range of free images and illustrations that you can use for personal or commercial projects.
Freepik
Freepik provides a collection of free vectors, photos, and illustrations that you can use for personal or commercial purposes. However, attribution may be required for some of the content.
Public Domain Pictures:
Public Domain Pictures offers a collection of free photos and images in the public domain, meaning they are free to use without any restrictions.

How do you print your art prints?
You can create high-quality art prints that closely resemble the original artwork. Remember to choose the right paper, communicate your requirements clearly, and review test prints to achieve the best possible results. To print your art prints with the best results, follow these steps:
- Prepare your artwork
Ensure that your artwork is in a high-resolution digital format. This will ensure sharp and detailed prints. Save your artwork as a high-quality image file, such as JPEG.
- Find a professional print shop.
Look for reputable print shops that specialize in fine art or high-quality printing. They should have the equipment, such as a large format inkjet printer, to produce high-resolution prints.
- Communicate your requirements
Discuss your specific needs with the print shop. Explain that you want your prints to closely resemble the original artwork, accurately capturing the colors and details. Provide clear instructions or preferences regarding the paper type, finish, or color calibration.
- Choose the right paper.
Select a high-quality archival paper that complements your artwork. Different papers offer different finishes, textures, and weights, so consider the look and feel you want to achieve. Matte or fine art paper is often preferred for art prints, but glossy or satin finishes can also be suitable, depending on your preference.
- Request a test print.
Before printing a large batch, ask for a test print to evaluate the colors, sharpness, and overall quality. This will help ensure that the final prints meet your expectations.
Consider limited editions: If you plan to sell your art prints, you may want to consider producing limited editions. Numbering and signing each image can add value and exclusivity to your work.
Don’t Make These Mistakes!
When transforming a print into an authentic-looking painting, there are a few mistakes you should avoid. By avoiding these mistakes and following these tips, you can achieve a more authentic and professional-looking oil painting from your initial print. Remember to be patient, practice, and enjoy the creative process! Here are some tips to ensure a successful outcome:
Avoid using spray adhesive directly on the print.
While spray adhesive can help adhere the print to a hard surface like a canvas, avoid spraying it directly onto the print. This can cause discoloration and damage to the print.
Choose the correct type of paper.
When selecting a print to convert into a painting, ensure the paper is suitable for oil painting. Avoid prints on glossy or thin paper, as they may not be compatible with the oil paint and may not hold up well during the painting process.
Prepare the surface properly.
Before starting the painting process, ensure that the surface you’re working on, such as a canvas, is adequately prepared. Apply gesso to prime the canvas, providing a suitable texture for the oil paints to adhere to.
Use appropriate materials
Opt for high-quality oil paints and brushes to achieve the desired results. Lower-quality materials can result in a less authentic and less durable final painting.
Be mindful of brush strokes and texture.
Pay attention to the brush strokes and texture you create while painting. Try to mimic the brushwork and texture of an authentic oil painting, which adds depth and realism to the artwork.
Allow sufficient drying time.
Oil paints take time to dry properly. Ensure each layer is fully dry before adding subsequent layers or details. Rushing the process can lead to smudging or blending of colors.
Commonly Asked Questions
Practice and experimentation are key to improving your skills in turning prints into authentic oil paintings. Don’t be afraid to try different techniques and approaches to achieve the desired results.
Can any print be transformed into an oil painting?
Not all prints are suitable for transforming into oil paintings. It’s best to choose high-quality photos with precise details and vibrant colors. Additionally, images on glossy or thin paper may not be compatible with oil paints and may not yield satisfactory results.
Do I need to have painting experience to turn a print into an oil painting?
While prior painting experience can be helpful, it’s not necessarily required. With practice and patience, anyone can learn how to turn a print into an oil painting. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore your artistic skills and experiment with different brushstrokes and textures.

How long does it take to turn a print into an oil painting?
The time required depends on various factors, including the complexity of the print, the level of detail you want to achieve, and your painting skills. It can take several days or even weeks to complete a painting, especially if you’re working in layers and allowing time for drying between each stage.
Can I use acrylic paints instead of oil paints?
While the process described here focuses on oil paints, you can use acrylic paints as an alternative. Acrylics dry faster than oils, which can be advantageous if you prefer a quicker process. However, remember that acrylics’ texture and blending capabilities may differ from oil paints.
How do I protect the finished oil painting?
Once the oil painting is complete and fully dry, applying varnish is recommended to protect the surface and enhance the colors. Varnishes come in different finishes (gloss, satin, matte) and can be easily applied using a brush.
Can I frame the oil painting after it’s finished?
Absolutely! Framing your oil painting can enhance its presentation and provide protection. Choose a frame that complements the style and colors of your image. Consider consulting with a professional framer to ensure proper handling and framing techniques.
Final Thoughts…
In conclusion, transforming a print into a faux authentic oil painting is a rewarding artistic project that allows you to recreate the charm and allure of traditional oil artworks. While the end result might not match the depth and history of a genuine oil painting, the following steps can help you achieve a compelling imitation:
In the end, while your faux oil painting may not replicate the historical and artistic significance of an original oil masterpiece, it can still infuse your environment with a touch of sophistication and artistry. Embrace the journey of turning a print into a faux authentic oil painting as a chance to exercise your creativity and bring a unique visual appeal to your surroundings.
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I love this idea! The texture makes it looks so much more realistic and expensive!
It sure does! This was so a fun to do!
This is such a fun process!
Awww, thanks doll!
This is such a clever idea!! I love the finished look of the art!
Thank you so much! I love it too 🙂