16 brilliant ways to re-use old picture frames

Do you have old picture frames with no photos to fill them? Don't worry — you'll be surprised by the endless possibilities for repurposing a picture frame. Not only is upcycling an old frame cheap and easy, you can create cute treasures to decorate your home, and they even make awesome gifts.
Make what is old new again by transforming your picture frames into unique objects such as mood boards, sunglasses holders, terrariums and much more.
Advertisement
1. Make a serving tray
Create a serving tray from an old picture frame with this simple and easy tutorial by My Sweet Things. What's so remarkable about this project is that you can customize the tray's surface to be anything you want. Whether bold colors, floral designs or abstract patterns, it's totally up to you.
2. Make a chalkboard
Repurpose your old picture frame as a chalkboard like the project below by Artsy Chicks Rule. It's ideal for holiday seasons, weddings and office decor.
3. Create a table organizer
This is a neat way to organize a table in your living room, office or bedroom.
DIY Everywhere
4. Design a message board
This project by Confessions of a Serial DIYer, which uses chicken wire, is an ideal way to display the pictures and important messages that you always seem to lose.
5. How about a mood board?
We're absolutely in love with this mood board! It would look terrific in your bedroom to inspire you when you're feeling down. Add some fairy lights for that extra cozy feel.
DIY Everywhere
6. Make a sunglasses holder
Want a creative and practical way to store your sunglasses? Transform your old picture frame to a handy sunglasses holder.
DIY Everywhere
7. Reuse as a key holder
If you're prone to losing your keys, this clever project is for you.
DIY Everywhere
8. Repurpose as a nail polish holder
Sick of trying to find a particular color in your pile of nail polish bottles? Repurpose an old picture frame to hold and organize them. You'll be pleased with the stress-reducing result. Add some wooden shelves to make this handy nail polish holder.
DIY Everywhere
9. Make shelves
Don't have space for a huge bookshelf? Opt for picture frame wall shelves to hold not just books but also your favorite knickknacks. Hang and stagger multiple picture frames on the wall to create a gallery wall effect. Get the full tutorial here.
10. Create succulent art
Succulents are in right now. The project below is to show you how to use an old picture frame to create succulent art. This makes a beautiful addition to your home, or give it as a unique present to someone special.
Shutterstock
11. Create a hanging planter
How creative is this idea? Display your beloved plants using an old picture frame.
DIY Everywhere
12. Create a framed headboard
Can we just take a minute to feel the awe of this bedroom interior? Don't you love how the colors complement each other? To think that the headboard is made from an old picture frame! It's amazing how an old picture frame can have so many uses once your imagination goes wild. Here is the tutorial on how to repurpose your picture frame into a headboard.
13. Repurpose as a jewelry frame
Want a cute way to display your jewelry? Try repurposing an old picture frame. This shabby chic look is quick, easy and inexpensive. It takes around 30 minutes to whip up, and the results are stunning! Check out the DIY tutorial here.
14. Make a lantern
Turn a picture frame into a chic modern lantern. Save yourself up to $100 by not having to spend anything at the store! Get the full tutorial here.
15. Turn it into chandelier ceiling decor
Here's an idea on how to use an old picture frame as ceiling decor. All you need is some paint to vamp up your frame and some nails to anchor it to the ceiling.
DIY Everywhere
16. Make a pedestal table
This pedestal table is so simple and elegant. It would add grace to any room in your home. Check out the tutorial here.
Advertisement
DIY Everywhere
Share these amazing DIY projects.