How to Make a Baby Spoons and Photos Shadow Box

You decorate your home with framed pictures of your baby, images that remind you of fond memories and milestones. Enjoy dimensional keepsakes as well by making a simple shadow box to display memorabilia like baby spoons and booties right along with your favorite photos.

Instructions

1. Find a suitable frame. Crafts stores (like Michaels or Jo-Ann Fabrics and Crafts), chain stores with crafts departments (like Target and Wal-Mart) or framing, scrapbooking and stamping specialty retailers may sell pre-made shadow box frames. You can also use items around the house such as cutlery trays, muffin tins, baskets and media organizers.

2. Select photos and memorabilia to include. Larger snapshots may need to be trimmed to fit if you're using a frame with compartments. The larger snapshots can be resized on a scanner, printer or by a reputable photo lab.

3. Arrange the contents before adhering. If you want to line the frame with patterned paper or fabric, for example, do so before adding the photos and ephemera.

4. Affix the items to the shadow box or backing sheet. Secure photos and lightweight items with double-stick tape, adhesive dots or dimensional foam tape. Attach heavier pieces like baby spoons with ribbon or floss. Loop the ribbon around the item and tie in back for a sleek look or knot in front for a homespun touch.

5. Complete the collage with other accents like buttons, paper flowers, charms or fabric swatches.

6. Hang the shadow box on the wall or display it on a bookshelf or coffee table. If the frame is shallow enough, the project may also fit on a decorative plate or cookbook stand.

Tips & Warnings

• Include even large and bulky memorabilia in shadow boxes. Simply photograph or scan the piece, then include the image along with other photos.

• Using shadow box frames, adhesives or materials that are not archival-safe and acid-free will lead to the deterioration of pictures and memorabilia over time. Use duplicate photos and preserve the originals in a safe place, stored in photo-safe sleeves or boxes and away from moisture and direct sunlight.