How to build a basic canvas frame around old farmhouse signs and turn them into classic vintage art.
I recently picked up a few typography farmhouse signs at a thrift store and knew right away they would be ideal to revamp into classic vintage art using a simple DIY canvas frame. This project is an easy, budget-friendly way to elevate thrifted pieces into stylish wall art that fits a more timeless, classic decor.
These repurposed pieces worked especially well in our girls’ bathroom as an affordable update that leans mature and guest-ready without losing charm.
As our home has been transitioning from a farmhouse-heavy look to a more refined, classic style, reimagining old farmhouse signs with framed canvas and vintage prints is a simple way to get the look without spending much. The steps below walk through how to build a basic lattice frame on canvas and attach printed vintage art for a high-end result.
DIY Canvas Frame Vintage Art from Old Farmhouse Signs
Supplies
- Vintage art prints (digital downloads or printed pieces to fit your canvas)
- Mod Podge or another archival craft glue
- Farmhouse sign canvases or wooden signs (this method works on stretched canvas or thin wood panels)
- Scissors
- Pencil or pen
- Tape measure or ruler
- Lattice strips or thin wooden molding for the frame
- Finish nails and hammer, or a brad nailer if you have one
- Wood filler for nail holes
- Fine grit sandpaper
- Wood stain or paint for finishing the frame (I used Minwax Special Walnut)
Steps
- Trim the vintage print to fit the canvas. If the canvas is not a standard size, turn the print face down, place the canvas on top, and trace around it. Cut the paper carefully so the image will align with the edges of the canvas.
2. Measure the top and bottom widths of your canvas with a tape measure. Cut two lattice strips to match those measurements so they will lie flush across the top and bottom.
3. Attach the top and bottom lattice strips to the canvas using finish nails. Space the nails evenly and sink them just enough to hold the wood without tearing the canvas. A brad nailer speeds this step, but a hammer and finish nails work fine.
4. With the top and bottom pieces attached, measure the height along the sides and cut two side lattice strips so they will extend just slightly beyond the top and bottom pieces. This overlap creates a clean miter-free look and helps stabilize the frame.
5. Nail the side strips into place to form a simple rectangular frame attached to the canvas. Check for square and make small adjustments before fully securing the nails.
6. Fill any visible nail holes or imperfections in the wood with wood filler. Allow the filler to dry according to the product directions, then sand the filled areas smooth with fine grit sandpaper.
7. Stain or paint the wooden frame to match your decor. A medium walnut stain gives a classic, slightly aged look that complements vintage florals and soft palettes. Let the stain dry completely.
8. Prepare to mount the print: apply a thin, even coat of Mod Podge to the front of the canvas and the back of the paper print. Carefully align the print and press it onto the canvas, smoothing from the center outward to remove bubbles or wrinkles. Place heavy books or a flat weight on top and allow the adhesive to dry fully.
9. Once dry, check the edges and trim any overhanging paper if needed. The finished piece will look like a professionally framed print but made from thrifted or repurposed materials—an inexpensive way to refresh artwork throughout your home.
This method is forgiving, adaptable to different canvas sizes, and works well whether you prefer floral vintage prints, typographic signs, or muted landscapes. It’s a quick project that transforms old farmhouse signs into more classic, grown-up art.
We used this approach for a subtle refresh of our girls’ bathroom so the space could feel appropriate for guests while still being soft and inviting for our daughters. The repurposed art strikes a good balance between youthful charm and lasting style.
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