Craft Project: Domino Picture Frame

This craft is a great way to use up old domino sets that you've lost a few pieces from. It makes a really cute picture frame out of something you would otherwise probably have to throw away.

I did this project with a group of children and a whole box of leftover and unmatched dominoes that a daycare center had given us. The kids had a great time sorting through the odd dominoes and deciding what patterns to put them in. We made some attractive picture frames, and got a lesson in recycling at the same time.

Start by choosing a photograph that you would like to have framed. Measure the photograph so that you will know what size you will be dealing with.

The most common picture size is four inches by six inches, so I'll write these instructions as if you are using that. If you are using a different size you will have to adjust the measurements accordingly.

You will need to cut a piece of paperboard about three inches larger than the photograph that you are using. You can buy paperboard at your local craft or discount store or you can use a piece of empty cereal box. If you are were using a four inch by six inch picture, you would need to cut a rectangle seven inches by nine inches out of the paperboard.

Next, you will cut a rectangle out of the middle of your rectangle, creating a hollow space so that your photograph can show through. That inside rectangle should be slightly smaller than your photograph (so that the photo doesn't fall through). If you are using a four by six photograph, make your opening three and a half inches by five and a half inches, so that it overlaps a quarter inch all the way around.

After you cut that center rectangle out, you will have a hollow rectangular frame. Arrange your dominoes, matching the dots in a pattern you like all the around that rectangle. Once you get them positioned the way you like, lift each domino one at a time and apply glue underneath. You can use craft glue or a hot glue gun to glue your dominoes in place. If you are using a glue gun make sure that an adult is supervising any children during this project.

Give your domino picture frame a chance dry, and then tape your picture to the back side so the photograph shows through the opening in the center. Attach a picture hanger clip to the backside of your frame, in the top center, using hot glue or craft glue to hold it in place. Let the picture hanger clip dry and then your new domino picture frame is ready to hang up.

If you'd rather set your new domino picture frame on a desk or tabletop, glue a folded triangle to the back of the frame. While one side of the triangle is glued to the frame, the folded section will hold your frame standing upright.

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