Picture frames can be used and turned into so much more than their original intended purpose. There are dozens of fun DIY projects to turn funky, vintage picture frames into works of art and unique decor.
We’ve found 14 of the coolest and unique DIY projects for old picture frames.
Coffee table/vanity tray
Place a colorful or patterned piece of paper inside a beautiful vintage frame and use as a vanity tray or coffee table tray. Change out the paper for holidays or throughout the different seasons.
Picture frame headboard
Create a gorgeous statement piece with a DIY picture frame headboard. Find a large vintage picture frame at a secondhand store for a bargain; often, you can find some that are the width of a twin bed. Using plywood, padding, and fabric you can place the upholstered piece of wood inside the frame.
Framed display shelves
Find a shallow wooden box and remove the bottom — then place a frame over the top. Add a couple of slats of wood to create a stunning display shelf for your home; works great as a medicine cabinet as well.
Layered gallery wall
Find frames of various sizes to create a unique piece of wall art. Paint them in your desired colors and plan the wall design. Use small nails to place into the base layer of frames to secure the second layer of frames; paint the head of the nail the same color as the frame. Hang on to the wall and voila!
Rustic hanging photo frame
Take an old wooden frame and secure twine, or wire across the width; use old clothespins to hang Polaroids or other prints. The pictures are super easy to interchange.
DIY earring holder
Paint a frame of your size and secure some wire across the width of the frame. Create multiple levels and use it to display and hang your earrings.
Chicken wire message and bulletin board
Use a staple gun to secure some chicken wire to the back of an old frame. Hang pictures, notes, or invitations using clothespins.
Dried branch wall art
Paint a vintage frame with a metallic color; find some old branches and line them up along the back of the frame. Trim the branches so that they are the length of the frame; use a staple gun to nail down branches. A beautiful and simple statement piece.
Desk organizer
Find a funky frame at a thrift store and some fun fabric; layer the fabric on the back of the frame and glue down with a glue gun. Store pencils, pens, and papers in style.
Framed wallflowers
Find a few frames to create a cluster; use different sizes for a unique look. Hang little vases of various shapes and sizes from the empty frame using twine. You can use fresh or artificial flowers.
Beach cottage decor
Using frames with thick borders, paint them with beachy sand-washed colors then place a seashell or starfish over the center. Perfect for a beach house or beach themed room.
Picture frame key holder
Have a safe place to keep your keys by making a framed key holder for your wall. Screw tiny hooks to the inside of a vintage frame and hang on the wall — you’ll never need to search for your keys again!
Dessert tray
Impress your party guests by serving desserts like cupcakes or cookies on a colorful and beautiful frame serving tray. Use bright colored patterned paper inside a vintage frame to serve up treats in a unique way.
DIY vintage frame bookshelves
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Add wood to the back of painted picture frames to create mini hanging bookshelves. Perfect for displaying other trinkets as well.
Get creative with some fun, old picture frames and transform your living space into a DIY art gallery.
