How to Make a Picture Frame Using an Old CD

CD-Picture frames.

This is a simple way to finally get some use out of all those old CDs, DVDs, and software discs that have been cluttering up your house or work space. I gathered some old discs, some peel and stick magnetic tape strips, a box cutter, and some super glue to fashion a picture frame which can be attached to a refrigerator, filing cabinet or any other metal surface.

Step 1: Materials

Acquire the needed materials.

For this project you will need...

(2) CD, DVD, or software discs
(1) Pack of peel and stick magnetic tape strips
(1) Box cutter or utility knife
(1) tube of super glue
(1) 12 inch ruler
(1) Marker (sharpie works good)

optional

(1) Piece of masonite or any flat surface to work on which
can take the abuse of a razor knife.

Step 2: Measure Disc

You will need to measure one of the discs to be cut for your picture to show through. Use your ruler to measure a good size opening for your picture while making a clear line of these measurements with your marker. I used a square shape for my opening and found that by measuring 1 inch, from the outside edge in, made a good even square.

Step 3: Cut Opening in Disc

Now comes the fun part. I used a plain, old box cutter to cut the square out of my disc. I must admit this took some doing. A utility knife would probably have made things a bit easier if I would have had one. I made sure to cut the disc over an old piece of masonite so as not to damage the surface I was working on. Just cut along the lines which you measured out in the last step. I cut several discs and about half of them separated into layers. I re-attached the layers with clear super glue which made some nice swirling colors to my surprise. "PLEASE BE ADVISED"..."USING A BOX CUTTER OR UTILITY KNIFE CAN BE DANGEROUS!!" Whenever possible, always cut "away" from yourself. I used a razor equipped tool because I found it made the cleanest cut. I tried a dremel tool and a heated blade but had poor results.

Step 4: Attach Magnets to Inside of Disc

Okay the hard work is done. Now the next thing you need to do is attach the magnets to the inside of your disc. I used peel and stick magnetic strips which I purchased in the craft section at Wal-Mart. Make sure you attach the magnets to the side of the disc that you don' want showing. To make sure the magnets line up with each other I first attach one set of magnets to the inside of the disc which I cut. I then place the second set of magnets on top of the first with the adhesive side facing outwards. Now just place the second disc on top of the magnets. As with the first disc, make sure you attach the magnets to the side of the disc you don't want showing.