Nature Art Picture Frames
When is a stick not a stick? When it's the side to a Nature Art Picture Frame! You can make a simple frame for your masterpieces using sticks and nature items you find outdoors.
Frame your favorite photo or artwork with a nature-inspired picture frame. Watch a tutorial video with Nature Cat or follow the steps below. Then hang up your framed photo for everyone to see.
Materials
Directions
Gather several sticks that are about the same length and thickness. You will need at least four similarly sized sticks. Also look for other nature materials that you can use for decorations.
Make a shape with your sticks, such as a square, rectangle or triangle. This will be your frame.
Attach the sticks to each other one corner at a time. Lay the end of one stick on top of the other. Cut a long piece of twine, and wrap it several times around the two pieces making an X shape. Tie a knot or a bow to secure it. Trim off the ends of your knots. (Tip: Place the twine under the two sticks so you have equal lengths of twine on either side, and then wrap one side at a time to make your X.) Repeat for each corner.
(Optional) Decorate your frame. Here are some ideas:
- Weave brightly colored yarn around each of the sticks.
- Paint your sticks.
- Attach dried leaves or dried flowers at the corners of your frame.
- Widen or lengthen your frame by attaching additional sticks using yarn or twine.
When you are finished decorating, cut a length of twine that is a little longer than the width of your frame. This is what you will use to hang your frame. Attach the twine to both ends of the top stick with knots.
Attach photos or your own nature masterpiece to the frame.
Option one: Punch holes in the top and bottom of the paper or photo and tie it to the frame.
Option two: If you want to hang more than one piece in your frame, stretch a piece of twine across the middle of the frame and secure it with knots on each end. Attach your artwork to the twine with clips or small clothespins.
Tips for Success
- No good sticks in your backyard? Try a nature trail through the woods, or head to a local beach (river, lake or ocean) to find driftwood. If you are having trouble finding sticks, try a craft store or you can order driftwood online.
- Sticks with beautiful bark are a fun choice for a nature art picture frame.
- Try to avoid sticks that are too big or too small (length and thickness) when you are gathering materials.
Want more “Nature Cat” activities? Check out the Create a Natural Toolbox activity and the Make a Wild Bee Motel craft to continue the fun!
Photography by Chelsea Foy.
Arts