Dollar Store Halloween Frame (Easy DIY with Free Printable)

Cute $1 Halloween Picture Frame Tutorial (Free Printable)

I needed one last touch for my entryway table, so I grabbed a couple of my favorite dollar-store frames and made these cute Halloween picture frames in under 30 minutes (including drying time!). They’re quick, budget-friendly, and a perfect kid helper project.

Supplies

• Square $1 frames (Dollar store, Walmart, or Michaels)
• Black paint
• Mod Podge (matte or gloss)
• Decorative Halloween paper (I used leftovers from our DIY Halloween banner)
• Black or orange cardstock
• Ribbon
• Sanding sponge or large emery board
• Craft knife (X-Acto) and cutting mat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Paint the frame edges. Paint the outside edges, inside edges, and the back of the frame. Let dry.

   
   
   

2. Apply paper with Mod Podge. Brush a thin coat of Mod Podge over the frame and place the decorative paper. Smooth out bubbles.

   
   
   

3. Sand off extra paper. After drying, use a sanding sponge to remove the excess paper by sanding downward only.

   
   
   

4. Cut out the window. From the back, cut an X through the paper. Sand the inner edges downward to clean them up.

   

5. Add your printable art. Mount your printed image on cardstock if needed and ink the edges for depth.

   

6. Tie ribbon and finish. Add 1–3 ribbons with a square knot. Odd numbers look best. Pop in your art and enjoy!

   

Haven’t downloaded the printable yet?

Click here to grab your free Halloween printable PDF and make as many frames as you’d like for friends or teachers!

Tips & Variations

• Paper weight: 65–80 lb scrapbook paper works best for smooth adhesion.
• Seal it: Add a final Mod Podge coat for extra durability.
• Personalize: Add stickers or stencil “BOO!” on the corner for fun.
• Learn decoupage basics: Check Plaid’s Mod Podge guide for expert tips.

DIY Halloween Frame FAQ

Can I use other shapes of frames?

Yes! Rectangular or oval frames work too—just cut your paper slightly larger and trim or sand to fit once dry.

What if my paper wrinkles?

Apply Mod Podge in thin, even layers. Smooth with a card or brayer from the center outward while the glue is still wet.

How long should I let the Mod Podge dry?

Allow 15–20 minutes between layers. If you’re sealing the top, let the first coat dry completely before applying another.

More Halloween DIYs & Ideas

• 🎃 Visit our Halloween Hub for more ideas
• 20 Kid-Friendly DIY Halloween Decorations
• DIY Halloween Banner Tutorial

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