DIY Shelf Frame

When you can’t decide between a picture frame or shelf for your wall space, consider doing a combination of both! This unique DIY helps declutter your tabletop and showcase your collections in a fun way. The wide moulding and rustic metallic façade of the Dakota shadowbox really glams up even the most dreary of spaces. See how this DIY Shelf Frame is the perfect way to blend art and function using a beautiful shadowbox as the base using our tutorial. 

Supplies:

• (2) 6” x 9” Dakota Shadowbox Frames
• Scrap Wood
• Acrylic paint – white, champagne gold metallic
• Paintbrush
• Heavy-duty adhesive, like E6000
• Foam Core or thin scrap of wood

First, determine which way you want to hang your frames. Cut scrap pieces of wood to fit inside each frame. We chose to hang one frame vertically and one horizontally so our wood pieces for the shelves measured 3.5” x 5.5” and 3.5” x 8.375”.

Paint your scrap pieces of wood with a layer of white paint, then top that with a champagne gold metallic paint. Tip: Consider using a contrasting paint color to bring in a pop of color on your wall!

We found that a small piece of foam core was needed inside the Daktoa shadowbox in order to make the shelf fit flush when inside the frame. Cut and adhere this piece in place then adhere the wood shelf on top, making the end flush with the inside edge of the shadowbox. We recommend a heavy-duty adhesive, like E6000.

To hang, hammer in a sawtooth hanger on the back or Command strips made for a heavyweight since these shelves will hold additional weight.

 

Fill your shelves with whatever trinkets, treasures or collections you wish!

Now, all your items are easily accessible but aren’t occupying space in your bathroom, office, or bedroom.

Consider mixing in DIY shelf frames with traditional framed art for a unique gallery wall option!

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About The Author

Tara Nehil is author of SpotOfTeaDesigns.com, a lifestyle blog sharing home décor, crafts, party inspiration and parenting lessons learned the hard way. Her graphic design background is evident in the home she lives in and styles with her husband of 8 years and 2 young daughters. Follow her creative journey for photo tutorials, printables, budget-friendly decorating tips and ways to celebrate occasions big and small.