DIY Network

Frame Display for Military Collectibles, Part 1 Salvaging a Used Frame From "Get Framed" episode DGFR-103

	Before
	After

Jay Bitler is a former serviceman with the United States Air Force. For years he's had his military jacket, ribbons and medals collecting dust in his closet because he just didn't know the best way to display them. Expert framer Shahnaz LaCaze has just the solution.

In this Get Framed project, Shahnaz helps Jay commemorate his military experience in a unique and cost-effective way by securing irreplaceable keepsakes in a frame that will properly protect and display them. She shows how to create a back-board wrapped in fabric, and then uses basic sewing skills to shape and permanently hold the display. In addition, Shahnaz and Jay create a pedestal to showcase his medals along with his uniform.

If you have military collectibles or other valuable keepsakes for which you'd like to create a proud display, check out the steps and materials outlined in this project.

Materials:

used frame
craft knife
awl
wire cutters
wood touch-up markers
cleaning cloth

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Find a Great Used Frame

If you're on a budget, a good way to pick up expensive frames cheap are estate sales, second hand stores and flea markets. This strategy can save you hundreds of dollars--especially for large frames (figure A).

Tip: When you're on the hunt for frames, check the top as well as all sides for damage. Many minor scrapes and dents can be fixed. Don't buy frames that have loose corners--those frames cannot be saved.

"Gutting" the Used Frame

Once you snag that bargain, you can easily recycle frames yourself with three simple tools: craft knife, wire cutters or heavy scissors and an awl. An awl is a tool that is a staple for framers. You can get one at any hardware store. It makes taking out screw eyes easier and is also good for starting nail holes.

• Flip the frame face down, cut the wire and (with awl) screw eyes off (figure B).

  Figure A

  Figure B

  
  

  	Figure C
  	Figure D

• The backing is called a dust cover and it's designed to keep, dirt, dust and bugs out of your framed piece. Cut an "X" in the dust cover with your craft blade and remove all portions of it (figure C).

• Use your wire cutter to remove any staples.

• Empty old contents from the frame, then wipe clean the frame in preparation for your new set of contents.

Fixing Minor Damage and Scratches to the Frame

Repairing minor damage to used frames is typically fairly easy. For small scratches that reveal raw wood, use wood touch-up markers (available at any home supply store). Lightly swipe the wood colored marker over the scratch and then wipe with a slightly damp cloth. If the damage or dents in your frame are larger than minor scratches, you may need to use stains and stained wood fillers to bring your frame back to life (figure D).