Reframed

Here at Hillsdale Furniture, we love clever, crafty ways to repurpose everyday household items. Sometimes we call these ideas “life hacks” or “upcycling,” and picture frames are some of our favorite items to play around with. We tend to collect a lot of them, and when old pictures get a little stale, it can be more fun to use the frame for something other than an updated family photo at the beach. Here are a few cool ideas for picture frames:

So Vain

Repurpose an old frame for a vanity tray that’s pretty as a picture. Give it a quick new coat of paint, then place a piece of colored paper or fabric inside to match or complement the surrounding décor of your bathroom, closet or bedroom. 

Fridge Flair

This one is handy for the unfortunate leftovers of mantle falls. Have a frame without the glass or cover handy? Glue on some magnetic strips to front frame (easy to find at craft stores) and then use them as refrigerator photo frames! There also great for framing part of a school drawing or A+ test grade.

Key Catcher

Framed hooks are a much more aesthetic (and organized) way to keep keys in check than the usual key table by the door. Eliminate the glass and paint the backing or cover it with fabric or paper. Then attach key hooks using super glue.

 Objet D’Art

Take the glass out of a beautiful frame, hang it, then mount an actual object in the center for a lovely and unique alternative to the shadow box. As far as the objects go, as long as it is light enough for wall mounting, the world is your oyster (this would great with travel souvenirs).

Solo Stunners

Who said picture frames needed pictures? Beautiful, vintage frames can be quite the sight all on their own, especially when painted in unexpected colors or covered in patterned papers. Try grouping together frames of various shapes, sizes, colors and patterns. Layering them on top of one another and mixing in other objects, like vases and small prints, can make for a unique display.

 Do you repurpose old frames? What are some of your favorite ideas for them?