Do you have some old picture frames lying around the house? Have you seen a gorgeous old frame for a good deal at a thrift shop but aren’t sure how to use it? I’ve got some ideas for you below, so stay tuned.
Frame Trays
Serving trays look gorgeous, don’t they? The look is gorgeous, but the price, not so much! That’s where frames can end up being your best friend. Grab a larger frame for a coffee table tray, or choose a smaller one for a bathroom tray. Cut a piece of colorful scrapbook paper or fabric to fit in the frame, insert it, and lay flat. You can add handles if you like (old drawer pulls work well for this, or you can add simple leather straps attached with superglue). This is one of the simplest DIYs, but it’s so gorgeous, and you can customize it to any style!
Dry Erase Board
This is the same concept as the dry erase board, just without handles! Once you choose a colorful piece of scrapbook paper or fabric to put inside the frame, you’ll be able to easily set up the frame or hang it on the wall and use it as a custom-designed dry erase board. Use it for notes or reminders, or use a larger frame to create a custom dry-erase calendar!
Chalkboard
Another DIY along the same vein as the two above, only with an extra step. Instead of choosing a colorful piece of paper or fabric, take the glass out carefully, and cover it with several coats of chalkboard paint. Replace the chalkboard, and paint the frame itself to any color you like. Enjoy your custom chalkboard!
Picture Frame Side Table
This project may take a little time, but it’ll be worth it in the end! You’ll need two frames, and an old wooden lampstand or candlestick the height you want your table to be. Take the two frames - one smaller, one larger - and either insert some decorative scrapbook paper into the frames, or paint them as you like. Then, attach the old lamp base or candlestick to the top of the smaller frame with glue. Then, apply some glue to the bottom of the larger frame, and secure it to the candlestick to make your table.
DIY Jewelry Organizer
Take an old, empty wooden picture frame, and screw in some small hooks along the top of the frame. Hang it on the wall, and use it to hang necklaces and bracelets!
Photo Display
Want a nifty way to display some photos? Use a staple gun or glue to attach a panel of chicken wire to the back of an old frame, and use clothespins to attach pictures to it. Your local grocery store should even be able to print out your Instagram photos - give it a try!
DIY Headboard
This one is one of my favourites, and you can use old picture frames or old window frames! For this, you’ll want to go to somewhere like a Habitat for Humanity ReStore, an architectural salvage store, or some kind of thrift or antique store to find larger picture or window frames.
If you’ve got a bed without a headboard, you can use old window or picture frames to create a unique look. You can layer pillow stuffing and fabric inside them for a plush look or leave them empty to capture a shabby chic vibe.
Hang a single larger picture or window frame as the headboard for a twin bed, two or three for a full, and you might even need four for a king size!
Are you inspired? Let me know if you give some new life to some old frames. I’d love to see your creations, so add your pictures to the comments below!