Repurpose An Old Picture Frame Into A Living Wall DIY Art Piece

Picture frames are great, until their glass inevitably shatters. Then you might assume there's nothing left to do but toss them out. That couldn't be further from the truth, though. Old picture frames are perfect for turning into stunning art. And with the right plants and a little bit of work, you can even turn them into a living wall of art by using them as wall-mounted plant displays.

There is a wide range of plants to consider for this project. While moss picture frame projects are popular and fun, they generally require preserved moss, which is no longer living. Creating a living moss wall requires significantly more upkeep and is best grown outdoors, where you can grow the moss on buttermilk. Other wall art projects made of living plants often require creating waterproof PVC shelves to keep the plants and their water or soil in place. But one easy and almost maintenance-free way to make a picture frame wall art piece with living plants is to simply use air plants (Tillandsia spp.). Orchids, which grow well in sphagnum moss instead of soil, can also be added. If you want an additional challenge, you can even grow your own sphagnum moss to use for this project. 

In addition to your picture frame, you'll also need a piece of hardware cloth and a piece of corrugated plastic, both cut to the same size as your frame. You'll also want either a staple gun or a glue gun for attaching your mesh and plastic to the frame. Additionally, use either fishing line or wire ties to secure your plants to the hardware cloth mesh.

Start by attaching your hardware cloth to the back of your picture frame with the staple or glue gun. Then, decide how you want to arrange your plants. Carefully tie them into the hardware cloth. If you're including an orchid, make sure you secure the sphagnum moss around its roots too. Your project could be finished at this point. Or, if you don't want the hardware cloth mesh visible, glue preserved moss around the plants to hide it. You can add in old bark, as well. Glue the plastic piece to the back of the frame behind the hardware cloth and attach hooks to the back, so your art can hang.

Care for your living wall art should be fairly simple. Mist the air plants every other day. These plants can absorb water from the air, but they may need a bit of help if your home is relatively dry. If they look like they are struggling, gently remove them from the mesh and soak them in water for around 30 minutes, and then reattach. If you included an orchid in your art, make sure the sphagnum moss around its roots stays moist.