Turn Dollar Store Frames Into a Trendy Decorative Lantern
Check out this fun Dollar Tree home decor hack!
I recently put together some trendy decorative lanterns by using photo frames from Dollar Tree, and they turned out super cute. They look great on my dining room table, and I love that I can display candles inside or change up what’s inside for different seasons and holidays.
Grab some Dollar Tree frames and get started!
The idea is to grab your frames, take them apart, and then glue the pieces back together into a lantern design. Don’t worry – it’s easier than it sounds! For one lantern you’ll need four 8×10 picture frames and one 8×8 picture frame. Notice that the 8×8 frame pictured above is a collage frame with an overall size of 8×8.
Tips for success:
- Before you leave the Dollar Tree store, I’d open the frames to make sure they aren’t damaged. This happened to me, and it’ll save you a trip back.
- It’s helpful to grab some needle nose pliers to easily deconstruct your frames.
- You can just glue a simple shape with four frames and skip the top part, but I think the top’s the coolest detail!
- For festive Halloween decor, it would be fun to embellish further with black vinyl shapes for a spooky lantern.
- You can glue a frame to the bottom to have a “base”, but I think it’s more convenient to have it open for larger candles and decor. It’s all up to you.
DIY Dollar Tree Picture Frame Lanterns
PrintSupplies Needed
- 4 – 8 x10 picture frames (flat sided)
- 1- 8×8 square picture frame
- needle nose pliers
- hot glue gun
- 1 shower curtain ring *optional
Directions
1
Take the backing off of each frame (leave the glass inside), and glue each side together to create a cube with the four frames. Make sure to glue the front of each frame facing the outside.
2
Using the needle nose pliers, break apart the square picture frame and remove the tiny metal pieces holding the sides together. (I left one side together and then separated the other two pieces, as shown above; this will make it easier when constructing the lantern.)
3
With the hot glue gun, glue them to the top of lantern at each corner, making a point at the center.
4
For an optional, yet realistic detail, paint a plastic shower curtain ring and add it to the top. It adds a nice touch.
5
Add pillar candles to the middle of lantern or holiday decor to display.
Look at how pretty these turned out!
I love how the size is actually very substantial. They are a pretty and trendy statement piece for the home – and you can’t beat the price! I’ve seen real lanterns like these priced at $25+ in stores and online. These cost me $5!
Style your lanterns for different holidays and seasons!
Here’s an example of how you can decorate a lantern for Christmas. All items inside are from Dollar Tree. They even carry tiny LED lights and candles to put inside! Have some fun and be creative!
