Easy Craft- Scrap cardboard 3 x 5 photo frame

This frame uses only some glue, corrugated cardboard and a piece of scrapbook paper.  How inexpensive can you get???  With a little help older kids can create these frames and give them as gifts to friends and family.  There are so many beautiful scrapbook papers available you won’t be able to stop at just one.  Get creative with the embellishments.  I used simple buttons but any number of things would be great. Cardboard boxes are available free at your local warehouse store or grocers.

You will need:

Corrugated cardboard

Lightweight cardboard (cereal boxes are perfect)

Scrapbook paper of choice

Buttons or rhinestones for embellishing the frame

Scissors

Craft knife (Optional for adults only)

Tacky Glue

Ruler and pencil

1.     Cut a piece of corrugated cardboard 6 ½” x 4 3/4.

2.     Measure one inch from the edges all around and cut out.  You may use an X-acto or craft knife but since the scrapbook paper covers the opening, it is not necessary to cut it perfectly. The opening should be about 2 ¾” x 4 ½.”

3.     Cut a piece of scrapbook paper 8” x 6.”

4.     On the non-colored side, place the cardboard on top and trace the center opening.  Measure ½ inch smaller from the marked line around and cut out. 

5.     Make slits in the paper around the opening of the scrapbook paper to the line that represents the cardboard openeing.  Add a bit of glue on the edges and fold up the scrapbook paper.

6.     On the outer edges fold in at the corners and glue the sides.  Do this all around to finish. Let dry.

7.     Cut another piece of cardboard the same size as the frame, 6 ½” x 4 ¾” and glue on to the back of the frame on three sides only, leaving the top edge unglued.  You may use lighter weight cardboard here.  (Cereal boxes are great sources of cardboard.)

8.     Make a stand and cut out. (See photo)  Fold 1/2” from the top and glue this section to the back.  Make sure it is in the correct position for standing.  Let dry.

9.     When completely dry glue some buttons or other baubles of choice to the corners as an embellishment and to hide any slight imperfections.  Slip a photo into the top and enjoy.

Another super idea...Why not dress up your fridge?  These are so easy and so lightweight that instead of attaching a stand try gluing a magnet on the back and use it for displaying recent photos.