15 Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Picture Frames
Did you know that old picture frames collecting dust in your attic can become useful items for your home?
Those wooden or metal borders that once held family photos might feel useless now. But wait, don’t toss them in the trash just yet!
Picture frame reuse offers a budget-friendly way to add personal touches to your space. With a bit of creativity, these forgotten items turn into practical home additions. You don’t need fancy tools or skills to start this makeover task.
Ready to see what magic you can work with those old frames? This guide shows you different ways to give new life to unused picture frames.
You’ll save money while adding charm to your home. Plus, you’ll feel good knowing you kept something out of the landfill.
What is Repurposing Picture Frames?
Repurposing picture frames means taking old frames and using them for something other than holding photos. It’s about giving these items a second chance instead of throwing them away.
This practice turns unwanted objects into useful home items. Frames that might otherwise end up in the trash can be used to make wall art, storage solutions, or home decor.
Frame repurposing fits within the broader trend of upcycling household items. It helps reduce waste while letting you add unique, personal items to your living space.
Benefits of Repurposing Picture Frames
Repurposing picture frames offers many advantages beyond just clearing clutter from your home. When you give old frames new uses, you join a growing movement of people who value resourcefulness and creativity.
- Save money on home decor items
- Reduce waste going to landfills
- Create one-of-a-kind pieces no one else has
- Express your personal style and creativity
- Build useful skills while making something beautiful
- Feel the satisfaction of making something with your own hands
Materials and Tools Needed for Repurposing
When starting frame repurposing projects, having the right supplies makes the work easier and more fun. Most of the items you’ll need are basic household tools that many people already own.
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| Hammer | Old picture frames |
| Screwdriver set | Paint or stain |
| Measuring tape | Wood glue |
| Wire cutters | Sandpaper |
| Pliers | Clean cloths |
| Staple gun | Nails and screws |
| Craft knife | Brushes |
| Level | Fabric (optional) |
| Drill | Corkboard (optional) |
| Saw | Mirror (optional) |
| Paint roller | Chicken wire (optional) |
| Scissors | Hooks and hardware |
15 Unique Ways to Repurpose Picture Frames
Here are fifteen creative ways to give new life to old picture frames. Try one method or combine several for your own custom creations.
1. Frame a Fabric Swatch Wall Art
Turn pretty fabric into wall art with minimal effort. This project works well with scraps of fabric you love but don’t know how to use.
It’s perfect for showing off vintage scarves, handkerchiefs, or textile samples without spending much money. Simply place your fabric between the frame and glass, secure it at the back, and hang it up for an instant color boost to any room.
Where to display: Living room gallery wall, Bedroom accent piece, Craft room inspiration, Home office decor
2. DIY Headboard
Use multiple frames to create a statement piece for your bedroom. This project adds character to plain walls and can be easily changed when you want a new look.
Larger frames work best, but you can mix sizes for visual interest. Arrange them in a pattern behind your bed, either hung separately or attached together for a cohesive look that stands out.
Where to display: Main bedroom, Guest room, Child’s room, Studio apartment divider
3. Pressed Flower Display
Preserve garden memories with this simple but pretty project. The glass on both sides protects delicate flowers while showing their beauty.
This works well for special blooms from important occasions or simply flowers you find pretty. Press flowers between books for two weeks, then arrange them between two glass pieces in your frame for a lasting botanical display.
Where to display: Windowsill, Bathroom wall, Kitchen herb wall, Reading nook
4. Framed Wreath Display
Add depth to wall decor by framing a wreath. This technique makes simple wreaths look more finished and intentional.
You can change the wreath with the seasons while keeping the frame in place. Hang the empty frame first, then attach your wreath in the center using clear fishing line for a floating effect that adds dimension.
Where to display: Front door, Entryway wall, Dining room accent, Mantel centerpiece
5. Tabletop Terrarium
Build a mini garden display case from picture frames. This project creates a unique home for small plants and makes a great centerpiece.
The clear sides let you see plants from all angles. Connect five frames with silicone to form a box shape, add soil and small plants, and watch your miniature garden thrive in this handmade showcase.
Where to display: Coffee table, Kitchen island, Desk corner, Sunny windowsill
6. Mini Greenhouse for Seedlings
This small greenhouse protects young plant starts and helps create the warm, humid environment seedlings need. It is especially useful for gardeners with limited space.
Frames with glass panes build a box with a hinged top that opens for watering, creating ideal growing conditions for delicate starts.
Where to display: Patio table, Kitchen counter, Sunny window ledge, Garden workbench
7. Framed Mirror
Create a custom mirror that perfectly fits your style. This project saves money compared to buying new mirrors and lets you match existing decor.
Older frames often have more character than new ones. Remove the glass, have a mirror cut to size at a hardware store, and secure it in the frame for a personalized reflective piece.
Where to display: Hallway wall, Bathroom vanity, Bedroom dresser, Entryway console
8. Pet Feeding Station Mat
Make mealtime neater and more stylish for your pets. This project creates a defined space for food and water bowls. The frame contains spills and makes cleaning easier.
Use a large flat frame with a waterproof insert to catch drips and crumbs, keeping your floors clean while adding a decorative touch to your pet’s dining area.
Where to display: Kitchen corner, Mud room, Laundry room, Under breakfast nook
9. Key Holder or Entryway Organizer
Create a practical spot for everyday items near your door. This project helps reduce clutter and ensures you always find your keys.
You can customize it with hooks, small shelves, or pockets. Replace the glass with cork, fabric, or wood backing, then add hooks to the bottom edge for hanging keys and small essentials.
Where to display: By front door, in mudroom, Near garage entrance, Home office wall
10. Shadow Box for Travel Souvenirs
Display small travel mementos in a three-dimensional showcase. This project turns ticket stubs and small souvenirs into wall art. Deeper frames work best for this purpose.
Arrange your collected items on a background that reminds you of your trip, like a map or photo, and secure them in place with appropriate adhesives.
Where to display: Home office wall, Hallway gallery, Family room bookshelf, Stairway wall
11. DIY Wall Sconce
Add warm lighting to any room with this creative light fixture. This project creates a focal point and casts interesting shadows. It works with both electric lights and battery-operated candles.
Mount a light fixture or candle holder on the wall, then position the empty frame around it to create a custom light feature that looks like it came from a design store.
Where to display: Dining room wall, Reading corner, Hallway accent, Bedroom side wall
12. Kids Art Rotating Gallery
Create an ever-changing display for children’s artwork. This system makes it easy to showcase new creations without damaging walls.
Children feel proud seeing their work prominently displayed. Run strings across the inside of the frame and use small clips to hang artwork that can be easily changed when new masterpieces arrive.
Where to display: Playroom wall, Kitchen display, Hallway gallery, Child’s bedroom
13. Framed Bulletin Board for Recipes
Keep cooking instructions handy with this kitchen organization tool. This project creates a dedicated spot for meal planning or favorite recipes.
The frame makes a simple corkboard look more finished. Cut the corkboard to fit your frame, then use push pins to hold recipe cards, grocery lists, or meal plans where you can see them while cooking.
Where to display: Kitchen wall, Pantry door, Inside cabinet door, Dining room sideboard
14. DIY Advent Calendar
Count down to holidays with this reusable calendar. This project becomes a yearly tradition that can hold small treats or activity ideas. You can customize it for any countdown, not just Christmas.
Attach rows of string across the frame and hang small numbered bags containing treats, opening one each day until the special date arrives.
Where to display: Family room wall, Kitchen counter, Child’s bedroom, Fireplace mantel
15. Framed Mosaic Art
Create colorful wall art from broken items or craft supplies. This project lets you use small items that might otherwise be thrown away. The frame contains the mosaic and makes it easy to hang.
Arrange broken tiles, beads, or glass pieces in a pattern on the frame backing, secure with strong adhesive, and add grout between pieces for a finished look.
Where to display: Bathroom accent, Garden wall, Sunroom decor, Craft room inspiration
Safety Tips When Repurposing Frames
- Always wear safety gloves when handling broken glass
- Work in a well-ventilated area when using adhesives
- Keep sharp tools away from children and pets
- Wear eye protection when cutting materials
- Secure wall-mounted projects with proper anchors
- Check old frames for splinters before handling
- Use a mask when sanding old paint
Troubleshooting Common Issues in Frame Upcycling
- If frame corners don’t align properly, use corner clamps during gluing
- For frames that won’t hang straight, add bumpers to the bottom corners
- When paint doesn’t stick to the frame, try light sanding before applying primer
- If the glass breaks during a project, replace it with plexiglass for safer handling
- For loose frame joints, reinforce with small metal brackets on the back
- When fabric wrinkles in display frames, iron with low heat before mounting
Conclusion
Picture frame repurposing offers endless possibilities for home decor and practical items. With just a few basic tools and some creativity, you can transform forgotten frames into useful objects.
These fifteen ideas show how versatile old frames can be. From wall art to pet feeding stations, the uses go far beyond just holding photos. Each project helps reduce waste while adding personal touches to your home.
Remember to work safely and take your time with each step. Start with simpler projects before moving to more complex ones.
Your unique frame creations will soon have friends asking where you bought such interesting items.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difference Between a Frame and A Floater Frame?
Regular frames have artwork touching the inner edge. Floater frames create space around artwork, making it appear to “float” within the frame, ideal for canvas pieces or 3D items.
How Do Floating Picture Frames Work?
Floating frames use spacers or a recessed design to keep art from touching the frame itself. This creates an illusion that the artwork is suspended inside the frame.
Can You Put a Print in A Floating Frame?
Yes, prints can go in floating frames if mounted on a rigid backing first. Attach the backing to the frame structure rather than pressing the print against the glass.
