Yard Sale Find Repurposed: Frame

HGTV Magazine shows how to transform a frame into a stylish tray.

By Ellen Goldberg
Courtesy of HGTV Magazine Subscribe Now
Filed under: Frames, How To

Lara Robby/Studio D

Materials Needed:

paintbrush
satin latex paint
medium-thickness cardboard
wrapping paper

spray mount
2 drawer or door handles with screws
screwdriver

Paint the Frame

Remove the frame's backing (if it has one) and any glass, which won't be strong enough for the tray. Paint the frame; let dry. We used Peppery by Sherwin-Williams. If your frame has rough spots, use a fine-grit sanding sponge to smooth them out first.

Build the Base

If your frame doesn't have glass, get a 3/8-inch-thick piece of glass cut to fit. Cut the cardboard and wrapping paper to the same size as the glass. We used Arboreal Villa Goldenrod paper, $4 per sheet, etsy.com. If you are worried about the paper shifting, adhere it to the cardboard with spray mount. Place the glass in the frame, then insert the cardboard-backed wrapping paper behind it. If your frame had a backing, put it back on; if not, create one by cutting a piece of mat board to the size of your frame. Adhere it to the back with hot glue or a heavy-duty craft glue like Magna-Tac. Let dry.

Add the Handles

Flip the frame right-side up. Center the handles (we used Stanley's galvanized storm and screen door pulls, $2 each, hardwareandtools.com) on the shorter sides of the frame. Screw into place, using a drill to make holes for the screws if necessary.

For more tips, check out Decorating on a Budget: Thrifty Finds Transformed