Make It Crate :: Altered Flea Market Frames w/Katie Ehmann

Happy Summer Crate Paper Fans! Katie Ehmann joining you here today with an easy altered frame tutorial that is certain to brighten up your craft space! I made three patchwork frames, each unique but with consistent design elements.

Must Materials...

Plain wooden frames (bought mine for $3 at a craft store!), Paper Trimmer, Pencil, Ruler, Hot Glue Gun, Sewing Machine (hand stitching is always an option!), Fave Crate Paper collection (embellishments & paper)

I chose pieces of the new, gorgeous Flea Market line by Maggie Holmes, along with some elements of her original collection. I love the way the two collections are so different, but still work beautifully together!

Got your materials ready? Here we go!

Begin by choosing patterned papers to cover your frames. Select from a variety of patterns both big and small that differ in design (stripes, flowers and geometric patterns). It'll ensure contrast and a hint of eclectic-ness.

With your ruler, measure each side of your frame from the photo opening to the edge.

With your paper trimmer, cut strips of patterned paper in the same width as each side of your frame.

Align one strip of paper on one side of your frame, making sure the edge lines up with the photo opening. Flip the frame while holding the paper in place, and trace around the outer edge with your pencil.

Repeat with all four sides until the frame is covered with patterned paper.

With your ruler and pencil, draw a line from the corner of the photo opening to the corner of the frame. Repeat with all four sides.

Fold each corner of the paper strips along your pencil line and add adhesive to each corner.

Carefully align each paper strip along the folded corner to create a paper frame.

Sew along each seam using a zig-zag stitch, or hand sew.

Hot glue your paper frame to your wooden frame, taking care to align the edges.

Add patterned paper and embellishments to the photo opening and to the outside of the frame to decorate. I used a similar embellishment cluster and sticker for each of my frames and love how they work together while still maintaining a sense of individuality.

Thanks so much for spending time with me today! I do hope you'll make your own altered frames for your crafty space!