Posted by
Mia Shulman, Acting Managing Editor
Saturday, September 1, 2012 9:04 AM EDT
Don't have the cash to invest in a Kandinsky? No worries (neither do we). Luckily, you don't need to look any further than your own home for inspiring things to frame. From kitchen towels to cherished postcards, the works of art are endless; all you need is the wall space!
1. Coasters: For a small surface, consider framing three or four decorative coasters and hanging them vertically. They'll never overwhelm small spaces, and are great fillers for walls that need something extra. Look for coasters that are out of the ordinary, like raw wood or colourful glass. Anthropologie Celestial Coasters (set of 4), $32.
2. Tea Towels: Decorative dishtowels make great kitchen art, and often come in sets of two or more, so you can frame a series of coordinated prints. Look for towels that aren't too thick (they'll be easier to stretch and staple over a canvas, or lie under a glass frame) with bright colours or bold prints. Williams Sonoma Sommieres Towels (set of 2), $22.
3. Dishes: A set of colourful and creative dishes look great clustered over a dining room wall, or lined along the wall of a kitchen. Look for a set with varying designs; food-inspired options are best to help guests work up an appetite! Global Bites Appetizer Plates (set of 6), $31.
4. Scarves: Have a scarf collection that rarely sees the light of day? Why not frame your favourites so you can actually enjoy them? This is a project best left to the professionals, especially if you've invested a pretty penny in the scarves to begin with. It's essential to stretch the scarf properly so there's no rippling or tearing. Scarves are great for covering larger walls and introducing colour and prints into a room. Hermès Parures des Maharajas, $410.
5. Trivets: Opt for pieces made from interesting materials, like woven or metal trivets, or peculiar shapes. These will ramp up your creative credibility and introduce textures that aren’t typically found in household art. Mjolk Brass Pot Stands, $81-$105
6. Postcards: A pretty postcard from a tropical destination, or even silly ones from loved ones make for fun artwork that's easy to frame and brings a touch of personality into your home. Best of all, if you have a large space, framed postcards can become an ongoing art project that you add to over the years -- a great way to document your travels. Cafe Press Retro Postcards (set of 8), $10.