If you have some old or thrifted picture frames, I have a DIY for you! I love the look of fabric wrapped frames and it’s actually easy to do. The result is a maximalist vibe with lots of patter, color, and personality. Here’s how to create DIY upholstered frames.

diy upholstered frames

Let’s start with the video tutorial so you get an overview on what I did. Then, I’ll dive in with more details below:

If the video doesn’t work here, you can watch it on YouTube here. It’d mean so much if you’d watch the video! I’m trying to get better at my video skills so I can grow my YouTube channel. If you have a few minutes to watch this and/or subscribe, I’d so appreciate it.

SUPPLIES

8×10 Picture frame
5×7 Picture frame
Fabric of your choice- green fabric, yellow fabric
Art Prints
Fabric scissors
Spray Adhesive
Rotary Cutter
Cutting Mat
Acrylic Ruler
Soft measuring tape
Glue gun
Hot glue sticks

art prints

For this project, I’m using Art Prints from the artist Diane Hill. I’m a big fan of her art! I have her wallpaper in my living room and her art in my bedroom. She has these gorgeous 4×6 art prints that are a set of 6. They are so pretty and look beautiful on their own. Let’s dress up the frames to show these off!

step 1- prep

Start by Choosing Your Fabric:

- Select a fabric that complements your room and enhances the photo or picture in the frame.
- Thinner fabrics like cotton or linen work well, as they are easier to wrap and glue.
- I’m using vintage pink fabric and these as well- green fabric, yellow fabric.

Prepare the Frame:
- If needed, clean the frame to ensure the fabric adheres properly. If the frame has any embellishments or rough areas, sand them down for a smooth surface.
- Remove the glass and backing from the frames.

step 2- cut the fabric

Next, Measure and Cut the Fabric:

Measure the frame, adding about 2-3 inches to each side to allow for wrapping the front and sides of the frame.
- For the 8×10, frame, I cut the fabric 13″x15″
- For the 5×7. frame, I cut the fabric 10″x12″

If using a mat, repeat by cutting fabric for the mat as well.
Cut the fabric to the measured size using fabric scissors or a rotary cutter.

Iron the fabric so it’s nice and smooth.

As you cut the fabric, wrap it around the frame and mat to ensure it’s cut to the right size.

step 3- glue the fabric on

And now, Apply Adhesive and Wrap the Fabric Around the Frame:

Put the frame and mat on top of cardboard. Spray on a thin, even layer of spray adhesive to the front and sides of the frame and the front of the mat.

Carefully place the frame face down onto the back of the fabric, smoothing out any wrinkles or air bubbles as you go. Press firmly to ensure the fabric adheres well to the front of the frame.

Wrap the fabric over the sides of the frame. Press down on the fabric to fold it over the edge and smooth it over the sides.

Flip the frame over and apply hot glue to hold the fabric onto the back of the frame. Apply a thin bead of glue along the back and press the fabric onto it.

If needed, trim the fabric so it’s the same size as the frame.

While gluing the back in place, fold the fabric over the edges of the frame, pulling it tight to avoid wrinkles. Hot glue the corners in place as well.

step 4- cut excess fabric

Finally, Trim Excess Fabric:

- Once the glue has dried, use scissors to cut a rectangle of fabric from the inner edge of the frame and mat where the picture will be placed. Leave 1-2″ extra.
- Cut an angled cut in the excess fabric towards the four sides of the frame.
- Apply hot glue to hold the fabric onto the inside edge of the frame. Press the fabric so it lays flat.
- Repeat for the mat- put the mat face down one fabric. Smooth out any wrinkles. Pull the fabric over the edge of the mat and glue into place.
- Cut a rectangle out of the inside of the mat. Cut 4 angled cuts. Hot glue the fabric onto the back of the mat.
- Tip- when pushing the fabric on the hot glue, use scissors so you don’t burn your fingers. The glue will dry on the scissors and then peel off easily.
- Note, the mat is a little easier to cover than the frame since there’s no corners to deal with.
- Insert the Picture:
  - Once the fabric is securely in place and dry, insert your picture or artwork into the frame, and you’re done!
  - If the fabric is thick, consider not replacing the glass from the frame to accommodate the added thickness. I didn’t use the glass on mine

after

The picture frames turned out SO cute! I think they look like something you’d buy in a boutique- they’re so high end looking!

This method not only customizes the frame, but it also adds a unique, textured element.

The result is a custom-upholstered frame that adds a personal touch. It’s so fun choosing out the fabric to match the art and room. The pattern on pattern is the perfect maximalist vibe!

It would also be very cute to customize a gallery wall with fabric-covered frames!

This frame in my living room is probably my favorite! The pop of color is so fun.

In conclusion, I hope you liked this tutorial on diy upholstered frames. Each one took 30-45 minutes- this definitely a beginner level project. It can also be done on a budget- pop by the thrift store for a frame and some fabric (an old sheet would work nicely). Let me know if you have any questions in the comments!