DIY mini magnetic picture frames

Blue magnetic frames stuck on a fridge, photo

Instead of chucking these old mismatched frames that I accumulated from thrift stores, I painted them all the same color, attached magnets, and gave them a whole new life. If only I could give this 1980s fridge a new life — in the junkyard. But because I’m renting my apartment, I’m stuck with it as is for now. (This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a small commission. You can read my full disclosure here.)

How to make magnetic picture frames

SUPPLIES

small wooden picture frames
primer
paint (I used Behr’s Lake Stream PMD-24)
photos
Mighty Magnet rounds
super glue

TOOLS

small paint brush
putty knife
drill and ¼-inch drill bit

INSTRUCTIONS

Remove the easels with a putty knife, photo

1. Remove the backs, glass, etc. from the frames. Set aside. Apply 1-2 coats of primer on each of the frames. Apply 2-3 coats of paint. Let dry about 30 minutes in between each coat. Let the paint dry overnight.

2. While you’re waiting for the paint to dry, remove and discard the easels. Wedge a putty knife under the edge and work it back and forth. The easel should come easily with minimal damage to the cardboard backing.

3. Drill two shallow holes in the top and bottom of the back each frame. Insert the magnets into the holes so that the surface of the magnet is flush with the frame. Most of the magnets will fit snugly enough to secure them. If any come loose, apply a dab of super glue in the hole before reinserting the magnet. (Note: I tried hot glue first. It doesn’t work as well as super glue.)

4. Replace the glass, insert the photo, and reattach the original backing. Stick them onto any metal surface that’s magnetic. Using four of these strong magnets on each frame keeps them securely affixed, even when the refrigerator door gets slammed.