Decorating with empty frames is one of my favorite ways to enhance spaces in our home. Today I’m sharing 24 Ingenious Ways to Use Empty Picture Frames in Decor and how I determine when one should be incorporated into my design.
*This post includes affiliate links, for more info on affiliate links visit here
My collection of empty frames is a diverse array of shapes and sizes, all chalk-painted in soothing neutrals - whites, off-whites, and grays. These wooden beauties come in various styles and different sizes, each with its own character. I'm always on the hunt for frames, scouring thrift stores, flea markets, vintage shops, yard sales and even Facebook Marketplace. My eyes light up when I spot old vintage frames or antique frames with pretty details or unique shapes - variety is key to ensuring I have the perfect frame for any project.
Many frames come pre-painted, but for those that don't, my trusty Chalk Paint is ready for a quick makeover. It's amazing how a little paint can transform a frame before it finds its place in my decor.
Ready to get inspired? Let me share 24 unique ways to incorporate empty picture frames into your home decor.
Jump to:
1. Empty picture frames to fill a space
Frames are my go-to solution for enhancing wall decor. Take the little wreath pictured below - it was dwarfed by the wall space next to our mantel. By framing it, I brought it into scale with its surroundings. This trick works wonders when you're dealing with wall hangings that feel too tiny for their designated spots. You can even frame an already-framed picture if it's looking lost on a large wall. Not sure if your wall art is too small? Apartment Therapy has a great guide on sizing up your decor.
Let me show you another example of how frames can work wonders. Take a look at this design over our mantel. I used a muted gold vintage frame to showcase a wood flower nosegay I crafted a while back. Without this beautiful frame, this bouquet would have looked tiny and underwhelming on this blank shiplap overmantel. But with the frame? Instant uplift!
I simply popped out the glass and removed the mat, and voila - this gold frame became the star of the show. It even inspired me to add these complementary gold candleholders, tying the whole look together.
It's amazing how a simple frame can transform a small piece into a statement. The frame not only ensures the floral arrangement fits the space perfectly but also elevates the entire design. It's these little touches that can make a big difference in your decor.
2. Faux tray
Another use for empty frames is to use them as faux trays. You can see here I created a coffee table tray before placing these milk glass vases with pink allium. I love how the frame…well “frames” this collection.
In this space, I used a frame to elevate this beautiful bouquet from Gracefully Restored. I wanted something to help showcase the bouquet, and this frame acting as a tray did the trick. The frame not only provides a defined space for the arrangement but also adds depth and dimension to the overall display. It's a perfect example of how a simple frame can transform a lovely floral piece into a striking focal point, giving it the prominence it deserves in the room.
3. Frames on the ceiling ?!?
I'm thrilled about using picture frames on the ceiling to enhance light fixtures. It's such a clever, simple way to elevate a chandelier or lamp. This idea has me brainstorming about our DIY orb light - imagine the possibilities! I spotted this creative trick on Pinterest and can't wait to try it. It's amazing how a basic frame can transform a ceiling fixture into a stunning focal point. Who knew frames could be so versatile?
4. Gallery wall
Empty frames as part of a gallery wall offer many ways to change out decor pieces through the seasons. On this blank wall turned collage wall of art, you can see here that I hung a simple peony kissing ball from the frame on the lower left-hand side. This peony ball was easily to switch to a snowflake for my Green and white Christmas decor. As you know, I love to create spaces that allow for changes and empty frames offer endless options.
5. Balance a space
Here I'm using two large picture frames to make this mantel decor look more balanced. Mixed with this collection of mirrors the gray brings a nice contrasting color to this Valentine's table for two. I am often leaning frames on my mantel - not all frames have to be hung to impact a space!
6. Enhance florals
For this faux floral wall hanging I added a collection of frames to add interest to this bouquet. With the added frames you can see this otherwise simple wall hanging fits perfectly in this space between our Pottery Barn-inspired ticking stripe curtains in our living room. I connected the frames using these Command Strips and attached them to the wall using – you guessed it – Command strips! Have you learned of the magic of Command strips yet? I am always amazed at how strong they are and I love the fact that they come off the wall so easily. Yup! No nail holes to fill!
7. Part of your table scape
Bring frames into the dining room to use on a table scape. I used a beautiful gold frame under this place setting last fall and loved how it turned out. This little bundle of wheat sits on each setting for some fall charm. The frame adds an unexpected layer of elegance, elevating a simple place setting into something truly special. It's a versatile trick too - you can switch out the frame color or style to match any season or theme, making your table setting feel fresh and unique each time you entertain.
8. Craft ideas
Let's have some fun with wreaths, shall we? I'm excited to share a new take on the classic wreath that's all about adding a delightful twist to your decor game. We're breaking free from the norm and giving wreaths a whole new personality. These creative wreaths are actually Empty Picture Frame Craft Ideas come to life! By using wooden frames as the base, we're reimagining what a wreath can be. It's a perfect blend of traditional and modern, allowing you to customize your wreath to match any style or season. Plus, it's a great way to upcycle those old frames you might have lying around. Whether you're dressing up your front door or adding a unique touch to an interior wall, these frame-based wreaths are sure to be conversation starters.
You can watch me make this fall frame wreath on this old wood picture frame here.
16 Creative craft ideas using empty picture frames
Ready to transform those dusty old frames? Grab your glue gun and let's dive into some frame-tastic crafting! These empty picture frame ideas will have you seeing your forgotten frames in a whole new light. From practical to pretty, we've got a project for every style. So, roll up those sleeves and let's turn those empty frames into something fabulous!
- Jewelry organizer - Add hooks or wire mesh for an earring organizer
- Dry-erase message board - Insert a piece of white paper or fabric as a background
- Succulent wall garden - Attach chicken wire and plant small succulents
- Floating bookshelf - Attach the frame to the wall and stack books inside
- Photo display - String twine across the frame and clip photos with clothespins
- Serving tray - Add handles and line with decorative paper or fabric
- Shadow box - Create a 3D display of small collectibles or memorabilia
- Chalkboard - For a fun use of an empty frame, paint the glass or insert with chalkboard paint to create a chalkboard frame
- Seasonal wreath base - Attach seasonal decorations directly to the frame
- Wall-mounted makeup organizer - Insert a magnetic sheet for attaching makeup
- Faux window - Use mirror or printed scenery behind the glass
- Decorative key holder - Add hooks to the bottom of the frame for a cool way to hang keys
- Framed terrarium - For a simple project, line with plastic and fill with small plants
- Wall planter - Grab some hot glue and attach small pots or mason jars to the frame
- Framed corkboard - For an easy idea, insert cork material for a stylish bulletin board
- Stylish bathroom organizer - Turn an empty frame into a stylish bathroom organizer. Paint the frame to match your decor, then attach small shelves or baskets inside for toiletries. Hang hooks along the bottom for hand towels or washcloths for your bathroom wall.
I think you can see why having empty frames on hand is such a great idea. They're inexpensive, incredibly versatile, and offer endless creative possibilities. It's a rarity for me not to have one or two showcasing or filling in a space in our home. These unique ways to use empty picture frames in decor are just the beginning - there are so many clever ways to repurpose old picture frames and breathe new life into your space.
Along with using books, frames are by far one of my favorite decorating "props," and I've loved sharing these ideas with you today! From using different frames to create a gallery wall to finding the perfect way to highlight a small piece of art, empty frames offer a world of decorating potential.
These 24 ideas are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to creative frame use. Whether you're looking to add depth to a room, create a focal point, or simply find a clever way to display your treasures, frames are the perfect solution. They're a great idea for any decorating challenge you might face.
Thanks for checking out my 24 Ingenious Ways to Use Empty Picture Frames in Decor! If you're hungry for more inspiration, don't forget to visit my Pinterest board on Frames in Decor. It's packed with even more creative ideas to help you transform your space using these versatile decorating heroes.
Keep Creating Friends!
