Beyond Photos: Creative Ideas for What to Put in Picture Frames

Picture frames aren’t just for displaying photographs. They can hold moments, stories, and elements that reflect your personality while adding warmth to your living space. Whether you want to refresh your walls or gift something memorable, here are meaningful and creative ideas for what you can put in picture frames to make your home feel more personal.

1. Artwork and Prints

Framing artwork—whether your child’s drawing, a watercolor painting you found at a local market, or your own sketches—brings color and life to any room. Abstract prints, minimalist line art, or vintage posters can add character while showcasing your taste.

2. Fabric and Textiles

Framing a beautiful piece of fabric can add texture and warmth to your decor. Consider framing a piece of an old quilt, embroidered linen, or a patterned scarf. This is a wonderful way to preserve meaningful textiles from family heirlooms or travels.

3. Pressed Flowers and Leaves

Pressed botanicals capture the delicate beauty of nature. Frame a single fern leaf or a collection of wildflowers to bring a touch of the outdoors into your space. This adds a calming, natural element and can also preserve flowers from special occasions.

4. Maps and Travel Memorabilia

Framing a map of a place you love, a city you once lived in, or a location on your travel bucket list makes for a unique conversation piece. You can also frame ticket stubs, travel itineraries, or postcards to build a gallery wall that tells the story of your adventures.

5. Handwritten Letters and Recipes

There’s something timeless about handwritten notes. Frame a letter from a loved one or a handwritten recipe from a family member to preserve memories in a tangible way. These can add a deeply personal and sentimental touch to your kitchen or office.

6. Mirrors and Decorative Paper

Using a frame to border a mirror is a simple yet elegant way to repurpose an empty frame. Alternatively, you can frame decorative paper, wallpaper samples, or even scrapbook paper for a quick decor update that ties into your room’s color palette.

7. Children’s Art and School Projects

Children’s artwork deserves to be displayed with pride. Frame your child’s painting or a school project to add color and joy to your walls while making your child feel celebrated.

8. Certificates and Awards

Framing certificates, diplomas, or awards can help you create a motivating office or study space while preserving important milestones in a professional yet warm way.

9. Vintage Items

You can frame vintage postcards, sheet music, or old magazine covers to add a nostalgic element to your decor. These pieces often carry unique colors and designs that can complement various interior styles.

10. Inspirational Quotes

Framing your favorite quote can add daily encouragement to your living space. Use typography prints that align with your style, whether it’s minimalist, classic, or playful.

Bringing Your Walls to Life

Your picture frames can become a gallery of stories, memories, and inspiration. By framing items beyond photos, you can reflect your interests and experiences in a way that transforms your space into a comforting and expressive home.

When deciding what to frame, consider what is meaningful to you and what will bring you joy each time you see it. Frames are more than decor; they are windows into the moments and memories that shape who we are.