Wooden shadow boxes are one of our favorite ways to make beautiful displays for the home. Rather than simply setting special objects, collectibles, or photos out for people to see, you can create one-of-a-kind DIY shadow boxes that protect your cherished items and highlight the things that are most important to you. They’re also great for special event decorations!
But if you’re unfamiliar with wood shadow box frames or you need a little bit of creative assistance with your next crafting project, we’re here to help! In today’s guide, we’ll provide you with some DIY shadow box ideas to inspire your next creation, and even help you find the perfect wood shadow box from Woodpeckers to fill, decorate, and display with pride. So, let’s get started!
Wood shadow box vs. traditional picture frame
When it comes right down to it, a wooden shadow box is like a picture frame with greater depth. A picture frame will have enough space to accommodate a photo or painting, but not much else. Alternatively, a wooden shadow box is specifically designed to hold larger, thicker items, or a larger number of small objects that can be displayed in unique ways.
In any case, you may be unsure when to opt for a traditional picture frame and when to go with a wooden shadow box. In our experience, there are a few common reasons to go with a DIY shadow box frame for certain types of gifts, special events, and even everyday home decor:
- Enhanced 3d effect - If you want to get that “stand out” effect from your frame, a shadow box is the better option. It gives you the ability to display three-dimensional objects in a more open space so that you and others can always enjoy a unique view of your creation!
- Space for larger objects - A shadow box will often have about an inch of internal space, allowing you to place more than just flat items, including everything from your DIY crafts to special jewelry inside. A traditional picture frame, on the other hand, only gives you enough space for one or more paper-thin images. It can also be trendy and fun to create smaller pieces of artwork in different shapes and then display them within slightly larger shadow box frames.
- Versatile display options - By and large, traditional picture frames are designed to be hung vertically on walls or placed in an upright position (often at a slanted angle) on a flat surface, like a bookshelf or a coffee table. With a shadow box, you can hang it up vertically, display it in an upright position, or even lay it down flat. You have more room to choose how you display it, since the 3D aspect makes it easier to view from multiple angles.
- Compartments for more objects - While a DIY shadow box frame is great for thicker objects that wouldn’t otherwise fit in a flat picture frame, it’s also perfect for lots of items that you’d like to display together. For example, a wooden shadow box with compartments makes it easy to display collectible action figures, toys, and many other groups of items that are important to you.
DIY shadow box ideas
Now that you know a little more about the versatility and uses of a shadow box, it’s time to dive into the fun and creative aspects of DIY shadow boxes! In the sections below, we’ll offer some of our top DIY shadow box ideas:
Holiday wood shadow boxes
- DIY Christmas shadow box - Shadow boxes are perfect for displaying small figurines, like carolers and snowmen, or decorations that are simply too heavy or cumbersome to hang on the Christmas tree. A DIY Nativity shadow box is also the perfect way to create a beautiful Nativity scene that you can use every year!
- DIY Halloween shadow box - Want to get really creative with your Halloween decorations? Using a coffin shadow box is great, as you can fill it with a spooky creature, a skeleton, or even just candy for trick-or-treaters!
- DIY Mother’s Day shadow box - Whether you give your mother a beautiful display of images, a “Happy Mother’s Day” message, or dried flowers, a shadow box can take your Mother’s Day gifting to the next level!
- DIY Memorial Day shadow box - Shadow boxes are frequently used to remember those brave souls who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. A DIY memorial shadow box can be used to display the traditional tri-corner flag, medals, or images of lost heroes on Memorial Day, or any day of the year.
- DIY Easter shadow box - If you and your family love painting Easter eggs each year, what better way to display them than a shadow box? You can use standard tray-style shadow boxes or shadow boxes with compartments to keep your Easter eggs and other holiday decorations separate from one another.
Special memory wood shadow boxes
- DIY wedding shadow box - From the wedding bouquet to your wedding guest book, there are a lot of treasured items from your wedding day that you will want to display for years to come. Even if you just want to commemorate your wedding photos, wooden shadow box picture frames make it easier to display multiple images and customize the arrangement.
- DIY graduation shadow box - Much like a wedding, a graduation of any kind is a major milestone for you and your family. A shadow box makes it easier to display and protect graduation tassels, diplomas, and other keepsakes from the special day.
- DIY pet shadow box - Whether you want to celebrate a pet that’s still right beside you or a beloved friend that has passed, a shadow box gives you the perfect way to honor your furry loved ones. You can display images of your pet, their favorite toys, or any item that celebrates their life and the love they bring to your home.
- DIY travel shadow box - Sometimes you just want a decoration that shows everyone where you’ve been over the years! A shadow box is perfect for displaying ticket stubs and other travel-related memorabilia.
Hobby & collectible wood shadow boxes
- DIY seashell shadow box - A wooden shadow box frame gives you plenty of space to display a collection you’ve been working on for years. Seashells are a particularly popular option, as they make for a beautiful sea-themed display.
- DIY flower shadow box - Do you love to plant and dry your flowers for preservation? If so, why not keep them safe and visible in a flower shadow box? It could be the perfect decoration for a kitchen, dining area, or anywhere in the home where you’d like to add a touch of natural beauty!
- DIY collectible shadow box - Collectible figurines are extremely popular these days. From Pokemon and Marvel superheroes to Harry Potter and Star Wars characters, you can use shadow boxes to celebrate and admire your fandom!
- DIY Miniature shadow box - Even if you don’t have a vast collection of figurines, you might want to showcase one or more of your favorite miniatures. DIY light-up shadow boxes can make for an even more impressive display that can still be enjoyed in low-light environments.
- DIY hole in one shadow box - If you or a loved one is a golf enthusiast, you can celebrate a hole in one with a plaque or a shadow box dedicated to the ball that made it happen. This makes for a great conversation piece and a way to show off your skills a little bit!
Did you enjoy our DIY wooden shadow box guide? Be sure to check out our wooden shadow box frame shop to find the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one!
