What do I do with old photographs?
There are always suitcases and boxes full of old photographs in flea markets and thrift stores, maybe even your attic. Often you see a sign that says, “adopt a new family”, “instant family” or “trade in your family for new ones” as a funny saying alongside the box. These old photos always intrigue me, but I am pretty fond of my family and want to keep them (most days anyway 😉 ). So what to do with old photographs you came across that speak to you? Scoop them up for some easy DIY artwork that will add vintage whimsy to your home in no time!
I was visiting Nashville a few weeks back and came across on old suitcase full of vintage photographs for $1 each. I thumbed through the pile and pulled out a couple that just felt good to me. They told a story and had a mood.
When I got home I grabbed my stack of Maker’s Studio stencils and went to work. I selected words and phrases that told what the picture said to me and stenciled the word right on the old photograph. Everywhere you look there are typography signs, so why not pictures!? (by the way if you LOVE these stencils like I do you might want to join my free Facebook group where I share tons of ideas with them! Join A Crafty Maker Club here!)
Then I paraded through my house sticking them around in little vignettes until I found the perfect spot for each one of them. They would look fabulous in a frame on the wall or nightstand, grouped together or tucked around like I did. Maybe you have just the spot for a few? Cheap art is always a blast!!!! I tried them leaning on a bookshelf like above and resting on a vintage typewriter…
Stuck in a group on a side table with a flower frog holder…
or in a pinecone holder…
in a vignette on my mantel…
on a vintage popcorn sifter “shelf”…
Anywhere you put them they are precious and tell a story…
or set a mood and you can’t beat that for an easy DIY! 
These stenciled old photographs will likely float around my house like gypsies because they can go anywhere! If you want to try some stencils you can grab them here in my Maker’s Studio store, you will seriously adore all the fun projects you can create! Now go dig those old photos out of your attic and get to work! Be my bestie and share this before you go please and thank you!
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I love the image of the couple that says Family in the pinecone.
Isn’t it dreamy! I just love that picture! total strangers, but it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy lol
What a GREAT idea! I have some old photos that were in an old suitcase I bought – no sentimental attachment to the people in the photos – so this is an awesome thing to do, especially since I have my new stencils. Thanks so much for sharing.
yes – you should whip up a few. if you mess up the paint will wipe off without ruining the photo too, if you catch it quickly! Don’t ask how I know that 😉
I love this idea…and the vignettes you created!
Thanks Janet – these little pics are so fun to move around and find new homes for!
Finally a great idea with pics I’m gonna use! Many thanks!
yay – and it is SO EASY, that’s the best part!!
Oh this is such a sweet idea! I love it! Copying!!!
Tania
yay please do it is so simple and fun!
Love love this story. Love how you captured words to match photos and vingennetes you placed them. Who would have thought of a pine cone being a photo holder?!
Love this idea! We just inherited a lot of old photos from hubby’s side of the family and this gives me some great ideas. Thank you!
I love your fresh ideas to display your old photos.
thanks LInda – I had a fun time with this one!