The method of depositing granules in a frame pattern includes moving an asphalt-coated web and depositing successive granule blend drops on the web. The first blend drop has a first color and forms a first blend drop pattern defining an inner region. The second blend drop has a second color and forms a second blend drop pattern sized to fit within the inner region of the first blend drop such that the first blend drop frames the second blend drop. A third blend drop having a different third color or the same as the first color is deposited such that the third blend drop adheres to an intermediate region between the first and second blend drops. The system includes a mechanism for moving the web and an asphalt coater for coating the web with asphalt. First and second media applicators are used to deposit the first and second blend drops in the respective first and second blend drop patterns. A third media applicator deposits the third blend drop as a curtain of granules over the first and second blend drop patterns.