What to Do With Family Photos

Individuals have a strong affinity for photography, primarily due to its ability to rejuvenate our memories and evoke fond recollections of moments shared with family and friends. Aside from perusing through vintage photo albums, the practical applications of these family photographs often seem limited. Consequently, a growing number of individuals are exploring craft projects as a means to repurpose their family images. In this context, we present a selection of DIY photography initiatives, which we trust will provide inspiration for what to do with family photos.

Create a Copper Frame

To successfully complete this project, you will require a stained wooden frame, copper wire, and clothespins. Begin by weaving the copper wire in a zigzag pattern across the frame’s opening, securing it at various points on the back of the frame. Once the wiring is in place, utilize the clothespins to attach photographs to the copper wire. This method allows for easy replacement of images without causing any damage to them.

Photos on Glass

More recently, acrylic sheets cut to size have been popular to print photos on too. Having your best family photos printed on glass is a great way to preserve cherished memories. In fact, photographs on glass could be considered a throwback to how families historically viewed their precious photos, as the popular photography techniques of the 19th century involved glass plate negatives. Fortunately for families in the modern era, a glass printed photo won’t be the only copy of the image in existence. Everyone in the family can have a copy of their own.

Decorate the Cover of Your Journal

This approach necessitates the alteration of certain family photographs; however, if you are contemplating how to utilize your most cherished images, this could serve as a viable solution. Consider cutting each photograph into small circular pieces and affixing these circles to the cover of your journal. You have the flexibility to incorporate as many circles as you desire or to experiment with various shapes, based on your personal preferences. Additionally, this method presents an excellent gift idea for a college student.

Create a Rustic Collage

An intriguing tree branch can serve a practical purpose in your creative endeavors. By suspending string from the branch, you can utilize paper clips or clothespins to affix each photograph to the string. The arrangement of the strings can be executed in parallel lines or intertwined to form a design that reflects your personal aesthetic. When you desire a fresh look, simply replace the existing photographs with new ones.

Give Old Clothes a Fresh Look

You can transfer any photo to fabric, but, for this method, remember that the image, along with any writing that appears on it, will be reversed. First, coat the photo with a generous covering of gel medium. Press the picture against the fabric just as you want it transferred and let it dry overnight in this way. The next day, wet the photo with water from a spray bottle and use your fingers to peel the paper from the fabric. Rub the surface gently to coax the paper to peel away. Some pieces may be more difficult to remove, but rubbing too hard can cause the image on the fabric to be removed. Afterwards, an additional coating of gel medium can protect the image on the fabric. This can be used on clothes, comforters, or any other fabric you choose.

Make a Map Collage

For those who enjoy traveling and possess photographs from their adventures, creating a collage that encapsulates these global experiences can be a rewarding endeavor. To undertake this project, one will require an old map, photographs, scissors, and glue. Select your preferred photograph from each location visited and carefully cut it out in the outline of the corresponding city or state. Adhere these cutouts onto the map, effectively covering the respective destinations. This collage can serve as an ongoing project, allowing you to showcase to friends the places you have explored.

Eat Your Photos

That’s right. Bakeries can now turn photos into edible sheets that can be added to cakes, so the next family occasion will be more special. Edible sheets can be added to birthday, wedding, or anniversary cakes. You can even take this edible image project on by yourself.

These are just a few unique ideas that can help you derive even more enjoyment out of your favorite photos. If you’re into crafts, you may find many more ideas for your family pictures. While uploading them to social media is one way of immortalizing them, turning them into craft projects can be a more rewarding experience.