Mementos Framed

Create three-dimensional artwork by mounting your favourite mementos inside standard frames - and skip the glass. To make the mat, simply paint the wall defined by the frame. Choose a frame style and a "mat" colour that suits the room and objects. Memento ideas might include old letters and postcards, pressed flowers, baby shoes and a rattle, jewellry, and anything else you've saved for the memories.

You will need:
- Picture frames
- Finishing and masonry nails
- Wall paint
- Paintbrush
- Pencil
- Hammer
- Wood filler
- Double-backed mounting tape

Here's how:
1. Decide where you want the frame to hang, then place it against the wall. Use a pencil to trace along the inside edges to mark off your mat area. Paint your chosen mat colour within the pencilled square; let dry.

2. Position the frame over the painted mat area. Install the frame by nailing through the frame and into the wall - this keeps the frame from tilting and puts it flush against the wall and mat. Use wood filler to fill in the nail holes in the frame, then touch up the paint on the frame.

3. Tap in masonry nails into the mat area where you want to hang keys, jewellry, or other objects. If you are putting up photos, use double-backed mounting tape to elevate the picture and give it a shadow for sculptural depth.

These framed flowers add a note of blessed relief on the dullest of days. Follow the above instructions for this project.

A small ledge boxed with a matching frame holds a floral arrangement even Van Gogh couldn't duplicate. If fresh flowers are too temporary, look for silk blooms or use the ledge to showcase a small piece of art. Purchase a shelf and frame that complement each other, or make your own. Paint the wall inside the frame to give the arrangement prominence.

  source: meredith publishing