DIY Repurposed Antique Frame Upholstered Memo Board

Few things are quite as charming as a beautiful old frame. Instead of letting it collect dust, why not repurpose it into a beautiful and functional memo board? This DIY Antique Frame Memo Board is a great way to add unique decor to your home. So grab an old frame, and a few craft supplies, and let’s get started!

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I’m sure it won’t be a shock to hear I have a love of perusing my local thrift store. Also, I often find beautiful pieces I know I want but have nowhere to put yet. Therefore when I recently started my entryway makeover I knew I had a great opportunity!

These two gorgeous old frames were a steal of the century at $4.99 each. Neither had their glass, but that didn’t deter me. I snapped them up and have been carefully hiding them away for the perfect use.

Perhaps you have a lovely old picture frame or two sitting around? Maybe they are still intact and can be used as a frame. But that shouldn’t stop you from trying this project if you need a change!

So, whether they’re looking for a fresh new purpose or you’re looking to create something more unique I’ve got you covered.

A Vintage Decor Twist: Creative and Eco-Friendly DIY Project

So, maybe you’re wondering why I chose to make these two beauties into an upholstered memo board. The answer comes down to problem-solving.

I have this love of vintage illustrations, paintings, and general art from times past. But I like to switch it out often. An Antique frame memo board would be a beautiful nod to the past but have a unique updated use.

So, spruce up your home office or craft room with a fun DIY project. And look no further than this DIY Repurposed Antique Frame Upholstered Memo Board!

Cork is a great product to use I would recommend, but I had cardboard on hand and chose to try using it for these frames.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an Antique Frame Memo Board

The first step in creating your own memo board is to find the perfect antique frame. Check out your local thrift store, flea market, or antique store to find an old picture frame with an antique look.

If you can’t find an antique frame, don’t worry! A simple frame from a craft store will work just as well.

Now it’s time to turn the frame into a memo board.

Step One – Gather & Prepare Your Supplies

Because neither of my frames had a back or glass to work with I had to get really creative. Therefore I chose to use my Dremel tool to cut my hardboard. But thankfully this was a fairly simple process.

1. Begin by measuring the inside of the frame.
2. Use a ruler to draw a fairly precise mock-up of your dimensions onto the hardboard.
3. Leave a bit of room for the fabric later.
4. Then slowly cut it out using your tool of choice.
5. Don’t forget to test the fit. And if it’s too snug, sand it down.

Step Two – Cut Your Fabric & Cardboard

I have a stash of bleached drop cloth that I am slowly using and it was the perfect linen color and texture for this project. But you can potentially use literally any fabric you have or want to purchase.

1. Once you have your hardboard cut, place your fabric over the frame.
2. Then put your hardboard piece into the frame on top of the fabric.
3. And then pull the fabric taut.
4. Cut your fabric with about 1-2″ seams all the way around.
5. At this point, you will trace your hardboard shape onto your cardboard.
6. Then cut it out.

Step Three – Putting the Memo Board Insert Together

Now that we have all of our separate elements prepared, it’s time to put them all together.

Step Four – Adding a Sawtooth Hanger

To hang a picture you need to have some type of hardware. Most frames come equipped with this, however, mine did not. Never fear, if you’re in this situation it’s an easy fix!

• The first thing to do is find the top center.
• Then put your sawtooth hanger in place. The nails are super tiny, so start the hammer gently.
• Finally, when it stands up on its own gently tap it all the way in.
• Do this for the second nail as well.

Repurposing an Antique Frame: Functions a Memo Board Can Serve

My intent is to display all the beautiful vintage art in my antique frame memo boards. However, memo boards are useful for a variety of functions. A few of those include:

1. Organizing to-do lists. A memo board can be used to organize to-do lists and keep track of tasks that need to be completed.
2. Reminders. You can use a memo board to remind yourself of important dates, appointments, and deadlines.
3. Notes. Memo boards are great for taking notes and writing down ideas, whether it’s for work, school, or personal use.
4. Messages. If you live with roommates or family members, a memo board can be a great way to leave messages for each other.
5. Inspiration. A memo board can be used to display inspirational quotes, photos, or artwork to keep you motivated and inspired.
6. Grocery lists. Use a memo board to keep track of items you need to buy at the grocery store.
7. Chore charts. For families, memo boards can be used as chore charts to assign and keep track of household tasks.

Overall, memo boards are versatile and can be used for a variety of functions, making them useful tools for staying organized and on top of tasks and reminders.

Creating a Unique Memo Board: Adding Decorations

Now for the fun part! Decorate your memo board with decorative clothespins, sticky notes, and even huge photos. Use it to keep important information, grocery lists, or as a to-do list in your office space or on your kitchen wall.

I chose to use a few of these gorgeous botanical painting prints. But first I did a really fun process to make the art prints look like oil paintings.

FAQ

In Conclusion

Creating a DIY Repurposed Antique Frame Upholstered Memo Board is a great way to give old frames a good use. All the while adding a fun and functional piece to your home decor.

So, head on over to your local thrift shop or craft store and start exploring new ways to repurpose old photo frames. And while you’re at it, cupboard doors, or even old windows into the perfect solution for your home.

Sincerely,

Julie