Everyone has old picture frames that were banished to the basement, garage, or attic in favor of some newer, trendier frames or photo display options such as canvas. However, instead of just gathering dust or garnering you ten cents at your next yard sale, consider some fun and frugal innovative new uses for those frames.

The first option is to use a frame as a memo board. This is an inexpensive way to add texture and fun to a kitchen wall, bedside table, or desk. First, remove any old photos or mattes from the frame and clean the glass. Then consider any updates to the frame itself. Paint, buttons, or fabric flowers are all fast and thrifty ways to change the look of a frame into something custom and new. Once the frame is done, simply frame something with a muted background such as plain brown burlap, scrapbook paper, or your favorite fabric and secure the backing. Now a dry erase marker can be used to write messages, record lists, or jot down menus on the front of the glass. When you want to change the writing, a swipe with a damp paper towel or glass cleaner does the trick.

Another fun option is to transform the frame into an earring holder. This is particularly appealing if you have a frame with scratched or missing glass, because you won’t need it. Discard the glass and whatever backing is attached to the frame. Now spruce up the actual frame any way you like, the same as with the memo board. Once the frame is complete, use a staple gun and staple strips of fabric with holes in it in strips across the back in horizontal rows. Lace trim is good for this, and short strips can be purchased incredibly cheap at fabric stores in the trim or remnant section. Now insert pairs of earrings into all the holes in the lace, and display on a closet or bathroom wall for a whimsical and aesthetically pleasing way to find your earrings in a hurry!

Not in need of earring storage? Another quirky update to the frames includes paint and some good, old fashioned chicken wire, which can be purchased at most hardware stores by the yard. After painting the frame the desired color, simply remove the glass and any attached backing, cut the chicken wire to fit the frame, and staple gun it to the back of the frame. Hang it on the wall, and then use clothes pins to pin up anything that needs to be displayed, such as photos, art work, or recipes.

Next time you see those sad, old frames sitting in the corner of your basement or attic, consider giving them a makeover, and give your home some fresh and unique pieces that will add texture and a customized look no matter where you put them.

Are You Thinking of Buying a Home in Dubois County?

Use our site to search homes for sale in Jasper, Dubois, Spencer, Martin and Davis counties and all of our surrounding areas. Unlike the “big name” sites out there, at Sell 4 Free Welsh Realty our site is directly connected to our local MLS and is updated with new homes every hour. By signing up for New Listing alerts you can stay on top of the newest homes for sale and get price change alerts so you can stay ahead of other buyers and beat them to the hottest deals!