Making Objects Out of Old Picture Frames

Repurpose picture frames into new works of art.

A lack of photos or artwork doesn't mean you need to toss your old picture frames. Old picture frames can be transformed into many different things for your home. Instead of displaying artwork, you can turn your photo frames into items that are both decorative and practical. Plus, your teens and tweens can get in on the fun. Not only will they be able to exercise creativity, they'll learn thrift and get a new accessory for their rooms.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric
• Photos
• Postcards
• Scissors
• Glue
• Thin cardboard
• Paint
• Chalkboard paint
• Magnet paint
• Magnets
• Chalk
• Twine

Instructions

Photo Frame Collage

1. Remove the backing from your photo frame. Pull out your art pieces and examine them. Decide on a theme to help you put your collage together. For instance, if you choose nature, pick green and brown fabrics with leaf prints along with postcards depicting forest getaways and family photos of campouts and outdoor activities.

2. Cut out squares of fabric and glue them to front of your photo frame backing. You may use a solid piece of fabric or use several types of fabric for a quilted effect. Allow the edges of the fabric to fray for extra texture.

3. Cut out and arrange your pictures on top of the fabric. Think of the collage as a mini-scrapbook page; your pictures should tell a story. Glue your pictures down once you've chosen an arrangement you like. Allow all of your glue to dry overnight.

4. Cut out mini-frames for your pictures and postcards from thin cardboard, like that of a cereal box. Paint the frames and let them dry for 2 hours. Glue the frames over your pictures and let the whole thing dry overnight.

5. Place the backing back onto your frame and secure it with the metal pins on the back of your frame. Display your homemade collage on a tabletop or on your wall.

Magnetic Chalkboard

1. Remove the backing and glass from your picture frame. Large picture frames work best for this project; they give you more room to write messages and display magnets.

2. Paint the glass with a coat of magnet paint, available at hardware stores. Magnet paint contains miniscule iron filings that make it magnetic. Allow the paint to dry overnight.

3. Paint over the magnet paint with chalkboard paint. The magnet paint will still work; it's meant to be painted over. Allow the chalkboard paint to dry overnight.

4. Reassemble your picture frame. Hang it on the wall.

5. Tie a piece of twine around a piece of chalk. Tack the loose end of the twine to your new chalk and magnet board with a magnet.

References

• Friday Zone: Recycled Picture Frames
• Picture Frames Manufacturers: Old Frames
• Celebrate Creativity: Stick a Pin in It