22 Brilliant Ways to Repurpose Old Picture Frames Into Stunning Decor

Before you toss that old picture frame, take a second look because it might just become your next favorite piece of home decor.

Whether it’s chipped, mismatched, or missing glass, picture frames are surprisingly versatile and perfect for upcycling.

These 22 brilliant repurposing ideas are budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and a beautiful way to give forgotten frames a second life. If you love DIY with personality and purpose, you’re in the right place.

#1. French Cottage Chalkboard Frames

Give your ornate vintage frames a stylish second life by transforming them into rustic chalkboards that are equal parts practical and charming.

Materials Needed:

• Ornate picture frames (any size, no glass)
• Chalkboard paint (1 small can)
• Paintbrush
• Sandpaper (optional)
• Jute twine and small burlap bags
• Hot glue gun
• Cardboard

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Remove the glass and backing from your frame. Sand the frame slightly if you want a distressed, antique look.

Step 2: Cut a piece of plywood or cardboard to fit inside the frame snugly.

Step 3: Apply two coats of chalkboard paint to the insert. Let it dry completely between coats.

Step 4: Place the painted board into the frame and secure it. Tie a small burlap bag or decorative element with twine around the frame for added charm.

#2. Framed Christmas Tree Card Display

With chicken wire backing and clothespins, it’s perfect for displaying Christmas cards, Polaroids, or handwritten notes during the season of joy.

Materials Needed:

• 4–5 empty picture frames in descending sizes
• Green and white spray paint (optional)
• Chicken wire
• Mini clothespins
• Wood star topper (optional)
• Staple gun
• Twine
• Wire cutters and pliers

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Clean and paint the frames in festive colors if desired. Let dry completely.

Step 2: Cut chicken wire to fit the back of the larger frames and staple or glue in place securely.

Step 3: Arrange the frames vertically from smallest to largest, forming a triangular Christmas tree shape. Attach them using twine, strong glue, or wire, ensuring even spacing.

Step 4: Add a small star ornament or wood cut-out to the top frame for a finishing touch.

Step 5: Use mini clothespins to attach holiday cards, notes, or photos to the chicken wire.

#3. Rustic Burlap Heart Frame

This charming DIY combines farmhouse warmth with heartfelt simplicity. An old, distressed wooden frame becomes the backdrop for a layered burlap ribbon cross, accented by sprigs of faux berries and a small wooden heart centerpiece.

Materials Needed:

• 1 distressed wooden photo frame (any size)
• Burlap ribbon (2 strips, approx. 2” wide x 12” long)
• Hot glue gun
• Faux berry sprigs
• 1 small wooden heart
• Scissors

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Lay the frame flat. Cut two strips of burlap and glue one vertically and one horizontally to create a cross shape on the frame.

Step 2: Layer faux berry sprigs or decorative twigs diagonally over the burlap cross. Glue in place securely.

Step 3: Attach a small wooden heart at the center where the burlap strips intersect.

#4. DIY Denim Pocket Organizer Frame

I love projects that surprise people, and this denim pocket frame always gets a double take. It’s functional, upcycled, and just plain fun.

Materials Needed:

• 1 old picture frame (approx. 8×10 or 11×14)
• Back pocket from old jeans
• Scissors & fabric glue
• Thick cardboard
• Optional: stapler, extra embellishments like tags or buttons

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Cut the jean pocket from a pair of old jeans, making sure to keep the whole pocket intact.

Step 2: Cut a piece of cardboard or backing board to fit your frame. Wrap the denim pocket over the board and glue or staple it to the back.

Step 3: Insert the denim-wrapped board into the frame. No glass needed.

#5. Antique Frame Perfume Shelf

This upcycled picture frame perfume display feels like something straight out of a Parisian boudoir.

Materials Needed:

• 1 ornate large picture frame (approx. 16″x20″)
• Plywood backing cut to fit frame
• 2 wooden shelves
• Paint
• Lace ribbon
• Wood glue
• Small nails (optional)

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Paint your frame and shelves in your chosen shade. Let everything dry completely.

Step 2: Attach the backing board to the back of the frame using glue or nails.

Step 3: Secure the shelves at equal spacing using brackets or wood glue. Reinforce if you plan to store heavier items.

Step 4: Decorate the shelf edges with lace ribbon for a soft, romantic finish. Mount the piece on the wall and display your prettiest perfume bottles for instant vintage charm.

#6. Vintage Recipe Collage Frame

There’s something magical about preserving the handwriting of loved ones. This collage project turns old recipe cards into meaningful wall art using a multi-opening frame.

Materials Needed:

• 1 collage-style photo frame (6–8 slots)
• Vintage recipe cards
• 4–5 sheets of floral scrapbook paper
• Paper or fabric flowers, glue dots, foam tape
• Scissors, double-sided tape

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Measure each frame opening and cut scrapbook paper to fit as background for every slot.

Step 2: Mount each recipe card onto the paper using foam tape for a slightly raised effect, or flat if you prefer.

Step 3: Decorate select slots with faux flowers, vintage buttons, or mini embellishments. Try to balance the design top to bottom.

Step 4: Once assembled, clean the frame glass and snap it all in. Hang it in your kitchen, hallway, or gift it to someone special.

#7. Floating Frame Shelf with Vintage Flair

By repurposing an ornate picture frame, I created the illusion of a “floating” classical bust that hovers in midair, supported by stacked vintage books turned into a small shelf.

Materials Needed:

• 1 large decorative picture frame (around 20″x24″)
• 3–4 old hardcover books (similar in size)
• Wood or L-brackets
• Wall screws + anchors
• Strong adhesive (E6000 or wood glue)
• Optional: bust sculpture, small vase, or decor piece

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Mount the picture frame onto the wall using screws or proper wall anchors so it sits flat and stable.

Step 2: Attach your stacked books together using strong adhesive, then mount them inside the frame using hidden L-brackets underneath or behind the books for strong support.

Step 3: Once the shelf is secure, style it with a small sculpture, a vase, or whatever quirky or classic item you love.

#8. Hanging Fabric Frame Wall Art

If you’re craving a cozy vintage touch, this layered trio of picture frames is the perfect weekend project.

Materials Needed:

• 3 vintage or thrifted photo frames (same or mixed sizes)
• 3 floral fabric swatches (approx. 8×10 inches each)
• Jute rope (about 4 feet)
• Scissors and glue
• Chalk paint
• Sandpaper

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Remove glass and backing from each frame. Paint the frames with your chosen colors and distress the edges for a vintage look.

Step 2: Cut your fabric swatches to fit snugly into the frame openings and secure them in place using glue or the original frame backing.

Step 3: Attach the frames together using jute rope on the back, space them evenly, then create a loop at the top for hanging.

Step 4: Hang your finished piece on a hook or nail for a layered wall art effect that adds character and color to any space.

#9. Coastal-Inspired Nautical Frame

If you’ve ever brought home a handful of beach treasures and wondered how to honor them, this project is your answer.

Materials Needed:

• 1 picture frame (any size, preferably flat wooden)
• 1 roll navy burlap ribbon (2–3″ wide)
• 1–2 yards of white cotton rope
• Hot glue gun + glue sticks
• A mix of real or faux seashells, driftwood, coral pieces

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Wrap the burlap ribbon snugly around the entire frame. Secure each fold or overlap on the back with hot glue.

Step 2: Wrap the white rope in a crisscross pattern around the frame. Let it look slightly random like a fishing net. Glue ends securely at the back.

Step 3: Arrange the shells and driftwood at corners or along one side. Use larger pieces first, then layer smaller shells.

Step 4 (Optional): Add a touch of sand or mini starfish if you want extra texture. Let the glue set fully before displaying your frame.

#10. Gallery Frame Bookshelf

This elegant project turns a grand, ornate frame into a sophisticated vertical bookshelf that looks like a curated art exhibit.

Materials Needed:

• 1 large vintage-style picture frame (approx. 5–6 ft tall)
• 4–6 metal or wooden ledge-style wall racks
• Wall anchors and screws
• Level and measuring tape
• Optional: spotlight or wall lamp

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Mount the empty frame securely onto the wall using wall anchors.

Step 2: Use a level and measuring tape to evenly space and install your wall-mounted shelves or ledges inside the frame.

Step 3: Place books, small art prints, or decor items on each shelf.

Step 4: Add an overhead spotlight or sconce to elevate the gallery-like effect.

#11. Vintage Lace Earring Holder

With a piece of vintage crochet lace stretched inside a gold ornate frame, you get a beautiful earring organizer that’s both practical and decorative.

Materials Needed:

• 1 ornate photo frame (no glass), approx. 8×10 or larger
• 1 piece of crochet lace
• Staple gun
• Scissors

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Remove the backing and glass from the frame, leaving just the outer border.

Step 2: Cut the lace to size, ensuring it slightly overlaps the frame opening.

Step 3: Stretch the lace tightly across the back of the frame and secure it with a staple gun or glue.

Step 4: Trim any excess fabric and hang or display your frame. Add earrings through the lace openings.

#12. DIY Upcycled Picture Frame Key Holder

Sometimes it’s the simplest DIYs that feel the most rewarding. This charming project turns an old wooden photo frame into a functional and decorative key holder.

Materials Needed:

• 1 wooden picture frame (approx. 8″x10″)
• 3 brass coat/key hooks
• 6 small screws
• Drill or screwdriver
• Cross stitch artwork
• Hanging hardware

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Clean and lightly sand the frame if needed. You can leave it rustic or apply a wood stain for added depth. Let dry.

Step 2: Center and mount your chosen art, print, or embroidery inside the frame behind the glass or mat.

Step 3: Measure and mark evenly spaced points along the bottom of the frame for hook placement. Drill pilot holes if needed.

Step 4: Screw the hooks into the bottom edge of the frame. Attach hanging hardware on the back.

#13. Rustic Spindle Frame Lantern

Whether placed on a dining table, sideboard, or entryway console, this piece instantly warms up your space with handcrafted charm.

Materials Needed:

• 4 small vintage wooden frames (same size)
• 1 wooden finial
• 4 small furniture legs
• Wood glue
• Eucalyptus faux greenery
• Heart-shaped yarn ornament
• Twine
• Chalk paint (white or grey)

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Attach the four frames together to form a cube-like lantern. Use wood glue or nails for stability.

Step 2: Secure the wooden finial on top for a lantern-like silhouette, and attach knobs or small legs at the bottom.

Step 3: Paint the entire structure with chalk paint, then lightly distress the edges for a weathered look.

Step 4: Add a faux greenery ring inside and hang a yarn heart from the top crossbar using twine or fishing line.

#14. Romantic Botanical Frame Wreath

This enchanting DIY takes an old, rustic picture frame and reimagines it as a botanical wreath bursting with elegance.

Materials Needed:

• 1 distressed wood picture frame (without glass)
• Floral wire and floral tape
• Faux or fresh flowers
• Greenery (eucalyptus, ivy, jasmine vines)
• Hot glue gun (optional)
• Twine

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Clean the frame but keep its weathered look intact—it adds to the charm.

Step 2: Arrange your greenery around the corners or sides of the frame, securing them in place with floral wire.

Step 3: Tuck in your flowers, clustering some for volume and letting others spill over the edge for a natural flow.

Step 4: Use floral tape or hot glue to reinforce sections if needed. Hang with twine for a romantic floating effect.

#15. Framed Cork Memo Board

Perfect for home offices, entryways, or creative studios, this project is a mix of functional and nostalgic flair.

Materials Needed:

• 1 large picture frame
• Corkboard sheet
• Strong adhesive
• Decorative thumbtacks
• Optional: Chalk paint and wax

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Remove the glass and backing from the frame. Sand and paint the frame if you want a refreshed or vintage look.

Step 2: Cut the corkboard sheet to size, fitting snugly inside the frame. Attach using a staple gun or strong adhesive.

Step 3: Once secure, add decorative push pins, clips, or mini clothespins.

#16. Vintage Shadow Box Frame

This picture frame makeover turned out so magical, I almost didn’t want to hang it up, I wanted to hug it!

Materials Needed:

• 1 large ornate picture frame (approx. 20″x30″)
• 3 wood shelf boards
• Wood glue
• Vintage-style scrapbook
• Acrylic paint (chalk blue or pastel)
• Paintbrush
• Mod Podge

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Paint the frame and shelf boards in your chosen vintage shade. Let dry fully.

Step 2: Line the back of the frame with patterned paper using Mod Podge or adhesive spray.

Step 3: Attach the shelf boards inside the frame at even intervals. Use wood glue and reinforce with finishing nails if needed.

Step 4: Mount it securely to the wall. Fill it with keepsakes, retro perfumes, or nostalgic art pieces for a charming display that sparks joy every time you pass by.

#17. Vintage Frame Moss Garden Wall Art

This wall art brings a breath of natural charm indoors without the need for soil or watering.

Materials Needed:

• 1 large vintage picture frame (no glass)
• Preserved sheet moss
• Variety of faux succulents
• Foam board
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• Hanging hardware

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Remove any glass or old backing from the frame and clean it up. Distress or repaint it if desired.

Step 2: Cut the foam board or plywood to fit the inside of the frame and attach it securely.

Step 3: Cover the board completely with preserved moss using hot glue, pressing gently to ensure full adhesion.

Step 4: Arrange and glue the faux succulents evenly across the moss, mixing sizes and colors for a balanced look.

Step 5: Add hanging hardware if needed and mount your green masterpiece on the wall.

#18. Framed Hideaway Box

This DIY project is an imaginative spin on upcycling, a cardboard box transformed into a hidden nook that looks like fine art.

Materials Needed:

• 1 medium cardboard box
• 1 decorative picture frame
• 1 small pillow
• Hot glue gun
• Optional: art print

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Cut out one side of the cardboard box to serve as the opening.

Step 2: Attach the picture frame to this open side using hot glue or adhesive tape. Add a printed image inside the frame for a fun “exhibit” effect.

Step 3: Line the inside with a small cushion or folded cloth for comfort.

#19. DIY Jeweled Picture Frame

This glitzy frame is a memory collage in itself. I made it using a plain thrifted picture frame and a collection of buttons, brooches, beads, and little bits I couldn’t bear to throw away.

Materials Needed:

• 1 wooden or plastic photo frame (8×10)
• Assorted trinkets: buttons, beads, broken jewelry, mini toys, watch faces, rhinestones
• Strong craft glue
• Tweezers (optional)
• Optional: spray paint

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Clean and dry the surface of the frame. If desired, paint the base color and let it dry completely.

Step 2: Lay out your decorative items around the frame to find the best arrangement before gluing.

Step 3: Begin gluing each piece one at a time, starting with larger items and filling gaps with smaller ones. Press and hold for a few seconds to secure.

#20. Framed Wall Vases Gallery

This design turns empty picture frames into stunning botanical displays using glass bottles, twine, and fresh or faux flowers.

Materials Needed:

• Assorted empty picture frames
• Small glass bottles (5–8 inches tall)
• Jute twine
• Wall hooks
• Faux or fresh flowers and greenery
• Hot glue gun (optional)

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Arrange and hang your empty frames on the wall first, so you can visualize your layout before adding bottles.

Step 2: Cut lengths of twine and wrap around the necks of each glass bottle. Tie securely, leaving extra twine for hanging.

Step 3: Hang the bottles within the frame opening by tying the twine to small hooks or by stapling the string to the back of the frame.

Step 4: Fill bottles with water (if using fresh flowers) or insert faux stems and greenery. Adjust heights for balance and charm.

#21. Repurposed Pin Cushion Picture Frame

These elegant oval frames turn into functional mini pincushions, perfect for keeping needles organized while doubling as adorable decor.

Materials Needed:

• Small oval picture frames (3×5 or 4×6 inch works great)
• Fabric scraps
• Polyfill
• Hot glue gun
• Cardboard
• Scissors

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Remove the glass from the picture frame. Use the original backing as a template to cut a piece of cardboard if needed.

Step 2: Cut a piece of fabric large enough to wrap around the cardboard with about 1–2 inches of overhang.

Step 3: Layer polyfill on top of the cardboard, then center your fabric over it. Gently pull the fabric edges to the back and hot glue them down, forming a dome.

Step 4: Insert your fabric-covered “cushion” back into the frame. Secure it tightly with the backing clips or more glue if necessary.

#22. Framed Sheet Music Wall Art

Made from ornate oval frames and layered with antique sheet music, this DIY is perfect for music lovers, Valentine’s Day decor, or simply celebrating rustic elegance.

Materials Needed:

• 2 vintage oval frames (approx. 5″x7″)
• Aged sheet music
• Wooden heart and bird shapes
• Red and cream acrylic paint
• Distressing wax
• Small lace ribbon, button embellishments
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors and paintbrush

Step-by-step Guide:

Step 1: Paint the wood shapes with red and cream paint. Let dry, then distress edges with wax or light sanding.

Step 2: Trace and cut sheet music to fit the frame backing. Adhere with glue.

Step 3: Decorate your wooden pieces, add a lace bow to the heart, and a small wooden button to the bird’s wing.

Step 4: Hot glue the shapes to the center of the framed music background. Reassemble the frames.