Have you been looking for a good tutorial on how to make a shadow box? I have several DIY shadow box projects for you to display your special mementos. Did you know you can make a shadow box from reclaimed items such as picture frames and drawers?

What is a Shadow Box?

A shadow box is a display case that allows you to showcase cherished items, memorabilia, or small keepsakes in a deep, framed enclosure. Unlike regular frames, shadow boxes have a depth that accommodates three-dimensional objects, allowing you to arrange and layer items creatively within. People often use DIY shadow boxes to commemorate special occasions or display collections, including items like medals, photographs, tickets, shells, or small mementos.

I hope you find a shadow box tutorial that fits your needs.

Rustic Shadow Box

The easiest way to make a DIY shadow box is with a wooden picture frame and thinner wood slats. For this project, that thin wood was small reclaimed fence boards.

A small shadow box is perfect for a keepsake display with your favorite photo and a willow tree piece. See the photo holder here.

Easy DIY Shadow Box Made With Pallet Wood

Jeanie from Create And Babble used pallet wood to make these fun, easy, free Christmas shadow boxes. I can see them used as photo frames or a display for a favorite keepsake.

Collection Display Made From a Large Picture Frame

Picture frames are readily available at your local thrift store or Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

Spray paint is a good option when a decorative shadow box has cubbies.

This lovely project can be hung four ways, allowing for countless configurations of the display pieces. The directions are in my article Picture Frame Shadow Box.

Wood Glue | No Nails Needed

I have all the tips and directions for a very easy shadow box tutorial for those looking for a creative weekend project. This small curio frame can hang vertically or horizontally.

Tips For Hanging

In this shadow box tutorial, you will learn how to make an easy shadow box and how to hang it on the wall.

Large artwork frames work best for adding thin plywood to give depth to your display piece.

Reclaimed Drawer and Picture Frame

You can use a reclaimed drawer and a dismantled picture frame to create a deep-set, ready-made shadow box.

Add a shelf to display more mementos in your black drawer shadow box.

Display Vacation Photos and More

Use new or reclaimed wood with a piece of glass to display your special vacation mementos.

Beach Memory Display

Isn’t this beach display so adorable? Laura from Pet Scribbles has a hack for making this without much DIY.

Extra Large DIY Shadow Box Hook Rack

A reclaimed window and new 1x4s make a uniquely large statement piece for a guest room or bathroom.

Ready-Made Shadow Box

Are you in a hurry and don’t want to mess with glue and saws? Consider using a wooden silverware tray to hold trinkets or jewelry.

Christmas Shadow Box

Countdown to Christmas with this large cubby house. This can be used year-round for your favorite collectibles.

I can’t wait to hear about your favorite option among these shadow box tutorials. Leave a comment below if you have any questions.