How to Mount Things in a Shadow Box Frame
Shadow boxes provide a fun and interesting way to display treasured objects. Go beyond paintings, prints and photographs. Use shadow boxes to display three-dimensional objects. Bring depth and drama to barren walls with antique sewing needles, treasured albums or wedding mementos. The variety of objects a shadow box holds is impressive. Use different mounting techniques to display your shadow box items in the most secure, aesthetically pleasing way. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Shadow box frame
- Craft glue
- Shelf
- Needle
- Thread
- Twist ties
- Pegboard
- Poster putty
Instructions
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How to Mount Things in a Shadow Box Frame
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For a permanent arrangement, use craft glue to secure items to the shadow box backing. Before you glue, arrange the items in the shadow box frame as you would like to display them. Use a pen to mark where to place the glue. Drizzle the craft glue onto the marked spot. Press the desired item onto the craft glue for 10 seconds.
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For a more dynamic arrangement, you can insert a shelf to place items on. Use a piece of wood, metal, plastic or other hard material to use as a shelf. Glue the edges of the new shelf and insert it at the desired point in the shadow box frame. Place items on the shelf. This method enables you to change the display frequently and easily. According to Antique Web, rotating the antique items on exhibit keeps the display fresh and interesting.
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Another method of securing your items within a shadow box is to use a needle and thread. Sew textiles into the shadow box frame with a needle and thread. Sew the items onto a decorative piece of cloth. Use spray-on adhesive to attach the cloth to the shadow box frame backing. Display quilt patches, flags and articles of clothes in this way.
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For a fast way to compile your shadow box, use twist ties. Use a pegboard as the shadow box frame backing. Place the items at the desired positions on the pegboard. Place the twist ties around the items and through the pegboard holes. Twist the twist ties to secure the items to the pegboard. Use this method for lightweight display items.
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Use poster putty to mount lightweight items or to secure items to the bottom of the shadow box frame. Place the poster putty onto the shadow box frame. Press the desired item into the poster putty for 10 seconds. Websites such as Kidz World recommend the use of poster putty because it is reusable and less likely to peel off paint than other adhesives.
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Tips & Warnings
Use twist ties in colors that complement the display items.
Do not use adhesives on delicate antique items.
Use an old picture frame as a shelf.
