Upcycle Thrifted Frames And Leftover Paper To Make One-Of-A-Kind Wall Art

Finding interesting pieces and filling your home with art you love can be time-consuming, especially if you're starting from scratch with a blank wall. You may think you'll have to scour various stores or browse countless websites to find a perfect, personal item that speaks to you, even if it comes with a hefty price tag. Yet there's a simpler and thriftier way to DIY a great piece. You can create one-of-a-kind wall art by upcycling a secondhand picture frame and some leftover paper from around your home. Glue is optional, but might help you set the image on a mat if needed.

Thrifted picture frames, whether purchased at a yard sale, thrift store, or flea market, are a perfect foundation for your new art. The wide range of used frames you might find means you can customize your final piece to fit your space. If you come across a frame that looks a little sad or dated, don't worry. You can repair it if needed, and then give it a stunning new look with supplies such as paint or markers. When it comes to the art within, the paper you use can be scraps of anything you have available. The only requirement is that you find it beautiful or worthy of framing. 

Before starting this DIY project, you must decide what type of paper you'd like to frame as your artwork. You might have a random assortment of various papers that you couldn't bear to throw out, or a few pieces you are keeping around for a "someday" craft. It could be a pretty sheet of scrapbook paper, wallpaper remnants, even a bit of gift wrap or a printed envelope. Maybe you're holding on to illustrated bags from interesting stores or bakeries, or even restaurant menus; all can easily be turned into art. Look through your options, and think about what would look best on your wall.

You can explore different styles as you frame your chosen art, using the item's "vibe" to inform your design. If you want a piece to decorate your coquette aesthetic room with, you might frame paper replete with bows or hearts. The wide range of wallpaper and scrapbook designs in marbles, stripes, checks, and anything else, can probably fit in your theme. For a tropical aesthetic, look at palm trees, while butterflies are excellent for a cottage core room. Framed neutrals of abstract lines or squiggles will accompany a boho room nicely without dominating the overall look. Don't be content to only frame your piece and hang it on the wall though, because you can enhance the frame and the art within too.

Completely transforming your boring picture frame with various art supplies, such as paint, markers, and glazes, will add more distinction to the final piece. You could treat the frames with a metallic coat, adding some shimmer with an option such as FolkArt Treasure Gold Paint. If you'd rather have a folk-inspired, homey look, pick up a can of chalk paint or even a set, such as RoseArt Charming Chalk All-In-One. Whatever you use, ensure it can apply evenly and fully to your picture frame's materials, be it wood, acrylic, or metal.  If there's any chips or cracks present, use a bit of wood filler to fill them, then sand and paint over.

One fun way of personalizing your frame is to start with a neutral base, then add a hand-drawn design directly onto the surface. Taking inspiration from DIY Instagrammers, you could try whimsical designs such as hearts or polka dots, or go bold with checkered or striped designs. No matter your desired style, if you've never worked with markers, a brand like ARTISTRO Paint Markers is great for beginners. Don't overlook the clever embellishments you can add to your art or frame. A light coat of glitter, a washi tape border, sparkling gems, or the addition of pressed flowers or twine can add more dimension and interest to your piece. Once your piece is complete, you can find the perfect spot. The whimsical art might be great for a children's room or bathroom, while the more subtle pieces can add a stylish yet soft look to your bedroom.