Picture frames, big and small, are a wonderful way to preserve and display our memories. But picture frames don’t necessarily just have to frame pictures.

Frames are pretty simple to find; in Dollar Stores, at thrift stores, at yard or garage sales, you name it. These little gems can be found pretty much anywhere on the cheap. I think that often times, picture frames get overlooked by shoppers and bargain hunters because they’re “not the right size.” But thinking in those terms can be very limiting to your creativity.

I’ve scoured the web to find some of the most unique and rather ingenious ideas for picture frames you may have or find. Whether functional or decorative, these are ideas that you can easily put to use in your own home.

1. As a Vanity Tray:

   This sweet idea from Real Simple creates a more romantic and classier way to display/hold things like powders, perfumes, hair accessories, makeup, or whatever else that clutters your dresser. In this example, a colorful piece of paper (or fabric) in the frame is an nice, decorative touch.

2. Make a Picture Frame Tray:

   With a double glass picture frame, a couple of 2-inch handles, and something flat and decorative for the inside of the frame, you can create a really cute multi-purpose serving tray. Something like this could be great for serving a special someone a nice breakfast in bed.

3. Unexpected Mirror Frame:

   If you have an oversized mirror in your bathroom, you could create some visual interest by framing sections of the mirror with larger picture frames. Check out this beautiful example from Houzz:

   traditional bathroom design by charleston interior designer LORRAINE G VALE, Allied ASID
4. Frame Chalkboard:

   Chalkboards are a great place to jot down notes, to-dos, shopping lists, etc. They’re also just fun for kids (big and small) to doodle on. Make your chalkboards more sophisticated by framing them. You could also use chalkboard paint to create something like this:

   modern bedroom design by san francisco general contractor Dijeau Poage Construction
5. Frame Cool Fabric Scraps:

   Have some extra fabric lying around from other craft projects? Just cut scraps with interesting patterns or colors to size to fit into an old frame. This is a super cheap way to add some character to your walls.

6. Frame Sheet Music:

   As a musician, I love this idea. How about framing the sheet music of your favorite song? Or even old CD covers, show tickets, programs, etc. This photo taken from Sand and Sisal shows how beautiful frame music can look in your home:

7. Key Holder:

   Use a picture frame to create a great display for hanging keys (not to mention organize keys for easy locating). Just take out the glass, cover the back with with fabric or paper, and attach key hooks with extra-strength glue. This cool example is from Real Simple.

Bonus Tip

Not sure of what to do with the glass you don’t need from a frame you’re using? Check out some of these awesome ideas from Yahoo! Voices!

Sources: Casa Sugar, care2, HGTV, Houzz, Hints and Things, Real Simple