Introduction: Cheap ($5-$10) IKEA Collage Frame

Here is a quick and easy way to get some pictures on the wall.  These are made from one of two types of picture frames from IKEA.  The Racket pictures frames were 3/$1.99 and the Ram frames were purchased 3/$3.99.

When I went to IKEA earlier this week, no Racket frames were available and they no longer appear on the website.  It looks like these are limited to stock-on hand.  

The process should take about 10 minutes, it took me about 15 minutes including taking these fantastic pictures.  The size depends only upon your imagination and budget.  

Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools

6   - IKEA picture frames (Ram/Racket)
12 - screws 5/8"-3/4" or 5/8" brads
1   - drill bit for pilot holes
2   - eyelets
2   - screws for attaching finished frame to wall

Tools:
Drill/Driver
Glue Gun

Step 2: Arrange Frames Face Down and Hot Glue in Place

Arrange the frames the way you like them, keeping in mind you can hang the frames diagonally if you desire.

After the frames are arranged the way you want, hot glue at each point the frames overlap.  If works best to have the frames overlap in at least two places for the screws you will add next.

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes and Add Screws

Flip the frame over (the glue is enough to hold the frame together, but the screws or brads will ensure it is secure).  Next add a piece of masking tape roughly 1/2" from the end.  This tape will help you keep the drill holes from entering the front of the frame and the top of your table.

Drill the holes where the two smaller frames overlap.  When you screw it together, it may be useful to use a manual screwdriver (yes, a Manual screwdriver) so as not to split the frames.

Step 4: Prepare the Frame to Be Hung

On the older Racket frame, I went for an "Industrial" look and used drywall screws that would be visible from the front of the frame. 

For the Ram frame, I decided to add eyelets to make the frame look a little cleaner.  In order to get the mounting screws to fit, I used needle nose pliers to bend out the thin brass wire into a hook.  This is what I had available, you could use a hook, picture frame hanger, wire, or just screws.

Step 5: Hang Frame and Enjoy

All that remains is the add the pictures and hang your new frame.  The total cost of the project is under $10, Granted it doesn't look quite as nice as the store bought frame, but you can add a coat of paint or stain and make it look better than you can buy!