19 Picture-Perfect DIY Photo and Picture Frame Ideas

A picture says a thousand words…. and so does the frame that surrounds it! Picture frames are more than just wood, metal and glue; they are vessels that help highlight, show-off and compliment your most precious moments. Which is why I like to create my own. A homemade frame not only ensures it looks exactly the way you want, it also adds a personal touch to what are often very personal moments frozen in time.

And the good news is they are relatively easy and inexpensive to make! If you want to create your own read our list of 19 picture-perfect DIY photo frames.

19 Picture-Perfect DIY Photo Frames for Decoration

1 Clip Art- Wooden Masterpieces

This modern, rustic wood frame on Shanty 2 Chic looks good with almost any decor and the best part is since the pictures are held with a clip you can swap them out every few months; perfect if you have young kids or grandkids. This is an excellent diy wooden picture frame project for this weekend.

2 Book Smart- Write Your Own Story

This clever frame from  Better Homes & Gardens is a great way to tell your family’s story. And all you need are some old hard-cover books and glue to do it.

3 Word Porn- Spell it Out

Who said frames are only for photos? Use this inspired idea from truebluemeandyou to take your favorite saying or poem and immortalize it. And moms, since they’re paper this is a great way to inspire your kids with weekly goals.

4 Popsicle Perfection- Leave Your Mark

This frame from  eighteen25 gives any frame a really personal feel thanks to the faux fingerprint pattern that is deceptively easy to do. Plus, it works perfectly for a kid or adult room and you can even have the little ones help out.

5 Photo Finish, Literally

If you love that antique, vintage look or want a more permanent frame then you’ll love this project from DIY Joy. The beauty of this frame is by transferring the photo you protect it, so it will last for decades.

6 Cardboard Cutouts- Ring Around the Pictures

Funky and different, these minimalist cardboard frames from photojojo are a cool way to show off lots of pictures in all different sizes; and if you have a creative side you could always use paint, glitter, or any other materials to jazz them up.

7 The Big Picture- More For Less

Large photos can be hard to fit- and also a bit expensive, which is why I love this one from Sugar Bee Crafts. It costs next to nothing and envelopes the picture without dominating it thanks to the custom sizing.

8 Picture Board- Leave ‘Em Hanging

9 Illuminating Ideas- Light Up Your Room With Images

Let your photos light up a room, literally, with this illuminated frames from That’s What Che Said. It creates a homey glow at night and also puts a spotlight on your most prized pics.

10 Spin a Yarn-Color Your World

Looking to add a splash of color to your space or need a fun DIY to do with your kids? Then check out this project from letsdosomethingcrafty. I love how quickly you can put it together and the creative license you can take with it, mixing and matching colors to fit any room.

11 Panoramic View- Look “Out” the Window

Perfect for stunning landscape scenes or other large photos meant to be the focal point of a room, this window frame from keepsonringing is sure to catch everyone’s eye. With the right picture, you may even fool people into thinking they’re looking out an actual window!

12 Pedestal Power- Update Your Desk

These frames from consumercrafts add a nice touch to an office desk or fireplace mantle. Sleek and understated, they allow the photos to shine while managing to be noticed due to their high-quality look; believe me, everyone will ask where you got them-only you’ll know how inexpensive they are!

13 Firey Frames- Burning Impressions

Those with an artistic talent will have no problem bring these frames via abeautifulmess to life. Just cut, paint, and burn designs into natural wood to create these stunning beauties. And the best part is you can create almost any design, from starbursts to intricate zig-zagging patterns.

14 Bottled Beauty- Mason Jar Magic

Who said pictures are just for walls? Not Homestories A to Z, who came up with this fun and inventive mason jar frame. You can paint it any color you like- and change the color, as well as the picture, every few months if you want to. Perfect on any table or mantle.

15 Musical Mosaic- Blending Memories

This stunning frame from lovethispic compliments any picture and is a lot of fun to make. All you need are some old CD’s and you’re ready to go. For a dramatic effect use a black and white photo or crush up a CD with songs that tie into the photo.

16 Rustic Charm-When One Door Opens…..

For a sweet rustic vibe that lets you create a whole collage of pictures try this DIY from I Am Momma Hear Me Roar. You can custom pick the size door and number of pics you want to show off and even add a beautiful message to give it more meaning.

17 Mat Finish- Play with Textures

This frame from Ohoh Blog is one of my favorites because you can dress it up or down depending on the materials you cover it with. I love how expensive it looks when in reality it costs next to nothing!

19 Map it Out- Make it a Global Experience

If you travel a lot, using maps for picture frames like Alyssa B. Young did is a smart way to tie in where you’ve been with each photo. And you can also use variants of this, swapping out the maps for newspaper or magazines.

What do you think of our 19 Picture-Perfect DIY Photo Frames? Tell us below and be sure to share these ideas with your family and friends.