In a world where sustainability and creativity often go hand in hand, finding new uses for old items is a popular trend. Picture frames, often left to gather dust once their original photos or artwork have been removed, are a prime candidate for reuse. Instead of discarding them, these frames can be transformed into functional and aesthetic pieces that breathe new life into your living spaces.
From serving trays to wall-mounted shelves, the potential uses for old picture frames are limited only by your imagination. Whether you’re looking to organize your jewelry, create a cozy herb garden, or simply add a touch of personal flair to your home, these versatile items can be repurposed in a variety of innovative ways. Here are 10 clever ideas to help you get started.
1. Turn Frames Into Chic Serving Trays
Transforming a picture frame into a chic serving tray is a simple yet stylish way to repurpose it. Start by removing the glass and backing from the frame. Choose a decorative piece of paper or fabric to fit the frame’s dimensions, and place it where the picture would normally be. Reassemble the frame with the glass, securing your decorative piece in place.
Add handles to the sides of the frame for easy carrying. Drill holes into the sides of the frame, making sure they are evenly spaced and aligned. Attach drawer handles or cabinet pulls using screws that match the thickness of the frame. The result is a custom-made serving tray perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying breakfast in bed.
2. Create a DIY Jewelry Organizer
Old frames can be easily turned into a beautiful jewelry organizer. Start by removing the glass and backing. Stretch a piece of chicken wire or mesh across the back and staple it in place. This will serve as the main structure for hanging earrings.
For necklaces and bracelets, attach small hooks or knobs to the bottom of the frame. Space them evenly, approximately 2 inches apart, to accommodate various jewelry pieces. Hang your new organizer on the wall, and enjoy the convenience of having your jewelry displayed and easily accessible.
3. Make a Stylish Message or Memo Board
To create a memo board, remove the glass and backing from the frame. Cover a piece of corkboard with fabric, securing it with glue or staples. Insert the covered corkboard into the frame, replacing the backing to hold it in place.
You can also use chalkboard paint on a piece of plywood cut to size, then insert it into the frame. This provides a reusable surface for notes and lists. Hang your memo board in a prominent location to keep essential information at your fingertips.
4. Transform Frames Into Wall-Mounted Shelves
To create a wall-mounted shelf from a picture frame, select a frame with a sturdy, wide border. Remove the glass and backing, and cut a piece of wood to fit snugly within the frame’s opening. Paint or stain the wood to match or complement the frame.
Attach the wood to the frame using L-brackets for added stability. Secure the shelf to the wall with screws, ensuring it is level. This unique shelf can hold small decorative items, adding both function and charm to your space.
5. Craft Personalized Photo Collages
With a selection of smaller frames, you can create a personalized photo collage. Start by arranging the frames on the floor to determine the best layout. Once satisfied, place photos or artwork inside each frame.
Hang the frames on the wall in the chosen arrangement, ensuring they are evenly spaced. This collage is a wonderful way to display family photos, travel memories, or themed artwork, adding a personal touch to any room.
6. Design Seasonal or Holiday Decor Displays
Frames can be used to create dynamic seasonal or holiday displays. Start by painting or decorating a frame to match the theme of the season or holiday. For example, a frame painted in pastel colors can become an Easter decoration, while red and green can be used for Christmas.
Fill the frame with themed decorations, such as ornaments, garlands, or wreaths. Hang the decorated frame on your wall or prop it on a mantel to enhance your seasonal decor.
7. Upcycle Frames Into Tabletop Centerpieces
Create a stunning centerpiece by arranging frames of various sizes and styles on a table. Remove the glass and backing, and use the frames as borders for arrangements of candles, flowers, or decorative objects.
For a cohesive look, paint the frames in matching or complementary colors. This arrangement can be easily changed to suit different occasions, making it a versatile addition to your table decor.
8. Build a Mini Indoor Herb or Plant Display
To build an indoor herb or plant display, select a frame large enough to hold small pots or planters. Remove the glass and backing, and attach a wooden or metal grid to the back of the frame.
Hang small pots or planters filled with herbs or small plants from the grid using hooks or wire. Place the frame near a window where the plants can receive adequate sunlight. This vertical garden is both a space-saving and attractive way to incorporate greenery into your home.
9. Repurpose Frames as Creative Chalkboards or Whiteboards
Old frames can be transformed into chalkboards or whiteboards for home or office use. Cut a piece of plywood to fit the frame, and apply chalkboard paint or attach a whiteboard sheet to it.
Secure the finished board inside the frame, and hang it in a convenient location. These boards are perfect for jotting down reminders, grocery lists, or creative ideas, adding a functional aspect to your decor.
10. Use Frames to Showcase Kids’ Art and Rotating Keepsakes
Picture frames are ideal for showcasing your child’s artwork or rotating keepsakes. Use a frame with a glass front, and insert a piece of string or wire horizontally across the back
Clip artwork or keepsakes to the wire using clothespins or binder clips. This display can be easily updated with new creations, allowing you to celebrate your child’s creativity while keeping your home decor fresh and engaging.
