Upcycle Old Books And Bedsheets Into Free Wall Decor

High-end looking wall art doesn't always need to come with a high-end price tag. Sometimes the most beautiful things to put on walls can come from upcycled items you already have or thrifted elements that can be obtained for a couple of dollars. Instagram DIYer @homewithq, for example, created beautiful pieces of framed art using two items — an old sheet and some antique bookplates. The result is a beautiful array of botanical prints on rich textured striped mats, a sophisticated and elevated way to get a cottage and vintage-inspired look for next to nothing.

Old books are a treasure trove of images and illustrations that can be carefully cut or torn out to hang on your walls. Great options include botanicals, diagrams, schematics, woodcut illustrations, maps, and photos. There are also many sheet designs that lend themselves well to turning into mats, like beautiful florals, stripes, and plaids. Or use textured linen to create DIY linen picture mats. Add some thrifted or inexpensive frames and you can easily create a gallery of high-end look pieces on a budget.

After you've chosen your book images, carefully cut or X-acto blade them out to your desired size (you can also use color photocopies if you want to keep your books intact). Cut a piece of bedsheet to match your frame backing with a little bit extra at the edges to wrap it around the back. Cover the backing with spray adhesive and smooth the sheet over the cardboard, using a straight edge to remove any bubbles or creases. Spray the back of the book material and press it in the center of the mat before putting it back in the frame. If you want a little more thickness and structure to your mat, you can also cover inexpensive photo art mats from an art or craft store using Mod Podge or spray adhesive to affix the fabric.

This approach can be combined with other ways of adapting thrift store pieces, including adding elements like gilt and metal corners to create luxe frames for cheaper. You could also turn a thrifted wood tray into a decor masterpiece by adhering fabric and book images to the bottom and hanging it on the wall. Other great materials you can find in your linen closet or fabric stash that make excellent patterned or texture mats are lace tablecloths, burlap or woven placemats, and damask drapery.