I am a sucker for a lovely frame, an item I never buy new since there’s always so much choice at my local Salvation Army thrift store. And I recently acquired an inspirational printed quote I found at my neighbourhood stationery store. I combined my two finds into an awesome DIY.

Supplies Needed: Thrifted frame, printed quote, cardboard, patterned paper, tissue paper (optional), scissors, tape (regular or double-sided) or white glue.

Step 1 Source a frame at your local Salvation Army thrift store. I adore a natural woodframe like this one! Next, you’ll need to track down the perfect quote to give you inspiration.

Step 2 Remove everything from the frame. Be sure to keep the hardware and inserts since you’ll want to reuse these. For my wood frame, I sanded it, then added a coat of oil. You can use cooking oil to help give the finish a bit of oomph.

Step 3 Trace the shape of either the inserts or glass onto cardboard or measure the inside of the frame, then cut out a piece of cardboard to fit. This will be the base of your background for your printed quote.

Step 4 Choose a patterned paper that works well with your printed quote. I chose a geometric design to help frame mine. I also chose to layer the patterned paper with tissue paper to mute the design. Use tape or white glue to add the patterned paper and tissue paper to the cardboard.

Step 5 Now you’re ready for your printed quote. I used double-sided tape on the back of mine to adhere it to the paper. Measure the space around the printed quote to ensure it’s in the middle and centred.

Step 6 Finally, we’re putting it all together. First, put the glass back in the frame and wipe the surface. Next, insert the cardboard with your printed quote. Lastly, nail or screw in the old hardware.

That’s it! We’re ready to hang our inspiring, DIY wall art. 

Denise Corcoran (aka Thrifty By Design) is an author, upcycler, community builder and workshop facilitator based in North Vancouver. She shares her enthusiasm for crafting and upcycling by facilitating “Crafternoons” throughout Vancouver. She is also a creative expert for The Salvation Army’s thrift stores. Find a thrift store near you at thriftstore.ca.

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