One person’s trash is another’s treasure.

One person’s mismatched frame is another’s inspiration.

Something that I’ve always gravitated toward at Thrift Town over the years is the selection of frames. Frames brand new are pretty costly, and often a deterrent from getting all those memories up on the wall, or even from starting a fun new project. When shopping secondhand, there aren’t usually two frames the same, and I love that! There are so many uses for secondhand frames. Here’s a couple I’ve found, and maybe you have come up with more!

DECORATIVE JEWELRY ORGANIZER

This is from a previous post here on the Thrift Town blog. There are so many fun variations of this project, and it’s really simple to make it your own & customize the details to go with any decor. Check out the post for step-by-step instructions on how to make your own. Since this post, I’ve actually added a bright colored silk scarf under all the hooks, and it adds such a great splash of color to the wall.

SPRAY PAINT WORKS WONDERS.

You’re probably not going to find a bunch of different sized frames secondhand, all in the same color. But through the simple beauty of spray paint, you can take a mismatched set of metals, wood & plastic, and turn it into a collection. Here is shown a collection of postcards, but it could be done in any size & volume. A child’s room, family snapshots, or even just the frames alone. Get creative – spray paint is your friend.

FRAME O’CLOCK.

I am in love with this idea! I may have to go get the supplies and make it this week.

As big or small as you want to make it, and again – completely customizable for the room.  As simple & inexpensive as buying the secondhand frames, and a basic clock kit from a craft store (usually under $10 for the kit). You can go crazy with the designs inside each frame, make them all match or actually put the numbers inside. But no matter what, this will be a focal point & conversation piece in any room.

TABLE-TOP TRAY

Always customizable: the secondhand frame makes a great table-top tray  for serving at a party or just keeping pretty things out. Change it for seasons, holidays or special events. And if you use small frames with the glass in it, they make great personalized coasters. You can buy sets of coasters at regular stores that are set up to add pictures to, but this way, you save money, and you have a nice lip in the edge to keep your drink still & your table safe.

FRAMED IN PLACE.

Maybe not for as big of an event as a wedding (unless you start collecting early!), tiny frames make for adorable name cards, or place holders. A bit more feasible may be to use them as decorative table numbers at a big event, utilizing paint to keep it all chic & streamlined, or all natural for a shabby chic approach. Either way, a sweet touch to a fun get-together.

DON’T FORGET!

Last week we told you about our Thrifted Outfit Contest ($75 Thrift Town Gift card for the winner!), and it’s going on through the month of March, so get your looks in to us ASAP. And make sure to be leaving us comments for a chance to win the $25 gift card too. {check out the post for official rules & info}