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DIY Bobbin Frame Tutorial | Easy and Affordable

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Last Updated on February 26, 2025 by lindseymahoney

Let’s DIY the popular bobbin frame trend that is showing up in all of our favorite designers homes! I looked into buying one of these picture frames and could not find one for under $50! This easy and affordable DIY achieves the same look for a fraction of the cost.

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

DIY Bobbin Frame Materials Needed

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners
  • Picture frame – Use a picture frame with a simple flat design, without any ridges
  • Wooden bobbins – measure the width of the frame and purchase bobbins closest to this size (mine are 1/2 inch)
  • Tacky glue or hot glue gun
  • Paint (or spray paint)
  • Primer (optional)

How to Easily Make Your Own Bobbin Frame for Less

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1 | Attach Bobbins to the Frame

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

Before attaching any of the wooden bobbins to the frame, place them on the frame to determine the best amount of bobbins. Once you determine the number of bobbins for the top and bottom of the frame, begin to attach them to the frame using glue.

Hot glue or craft glue works for this project, but I found craft glue to be an easier option. Place a small amount of glue on the back of the wooden bobbin and press onto the frame. Try not to apply too much glue because it will seep out of the sides creating a “DIY look”. The craft glue also allows for a little wiggle room if you need to move any of the bobbins slightly once you complete one side of the frame.

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

Using the same number of bobbins, apply them to the other side of the frame to create a mirror image. Continue adding the bobbins until the frame is complete.

2 | Add a Pop of Color to Your Frame

Once the bobbin frame dries (I would wait 24 hours), it is time for paint!

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

For more DIY bobbin frame, I used spraypaint. This was a quick and easy way to paint the frame, however, I would consider a different approach if I did it again.

To create a truly professional look, adding a paint primer first is a good idea. This creates a smooth and even surface for the paint to better adhere. I would also like to try applying paint with a paint brush to maximize coverage across the picture frame.

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

Once the paint is applied, seal the entire picture frame with a clear lacquer. Personally, I like the high gloss look and prefer this finish to satin or matte.

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

Let the frame dry for 24 hours.

3 | Hang Your DIY Bobbin Frame and Enjoy!

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

Once the picture frame is dry, reassemble the glass, matting (if included) and artwork. Admire your custom picture frame on the wall or displayed on a table!

DIY bobbin frame tutorial | Easy and affordable DIY for beginners

The walls in my office are a muddy pink and I knew a pop of red on this picture frame was the perfect way to add a little personality to the space.

This DIY bobbin frame is the perfect project for beginners that will give a high-end look to your home decor. Good luck!

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