If you possess medals, letters, photos or other memorabilia celebrating a loved one’s or your own achievements, they deserve to be showcased, not hidden away. This article will walk you through the process of creating a medal display case and give you medal frame ideas to proudly display your accomplishments or cherished mementoes.
Medal frame ideas
Shadow boxes
Source: Pinterest (awardmedals.com)
Shadow boxes have stood the test of time when it comes to showcasing medals. Here are some medal frame ideas using shadow boxes
- Traditional arrangement: Utilise a shadow box to organise your medals neatly and pin them to the fabric-covered backing. This classic method allows you to appreciate your medals while preserving their condition.
- Thematic displays: Arrange your medals thematically by grouping them according to events, sports or their significance. This approach adds a personal touch to your display and tells a story.
Hanging shelves with hooks
Source: Pinterest (Etsy)
Hanging shelves with hooks offer both functionality and decor. Here’s how to implement this medal frame idea.
- Use hanging hooks: Hang medals with ribbons on the hooks and position additional medals on the shelf above. This approach works well for a diverse collection of medals.
- Customise your shelf: Create a bespoke hanging shelf by attaching small hooks to the underside of a wooden shelf. This DIY approach allows you to customise the design to your preferences.
Repurposed household items
Source: Pinterest (Thistlewood Farms)
Repurposing everyday household items can result in a unique medal display. Here’s how to implement this medal frame idea.
- Crib railing: Transform an old baby crib railing into a stylish place to hang your medals. Mount it on the wall horizontally using wall hooks and tie the medals to the rungs.
- Tie rack: Consider converting a tie rack into a medal hanger. The small hooks on tie racks are perfect for hanging medals, creating an organised and visually appealing display.
Medal collage in a frame
Source: Pinterest (SOLITUDE)
Create a framed medal collage for a unique and personalised display. Here’s how to execute this medal frame idea.
- Disassemble your medals: Begin by disassembling the medals you wish to display, removing any ribbons or pins. This step allows for easy attachment of the medals to the frame.
- Frame backing makeover: Procure a large frame and cover the backing with sturdy craft fabric such as burlap or canvas. This fabric provides an appealing backdrop for your medals.
- Arrange and attach: Arrange your medals on the fabric-covered frame backing in an engaging pattern. Use a hot glue gun to attach the medals securely to the fabric.
Tools and materials needed to make a shadow box medal frame
- (7) Linear feet of Oak S4S board, 1 x 4
- (7) Linear feet of Oak stop moulding, 1 1/4 inches
- (2) Poplar S4S “project board,” 1/4 x 3 x 3
- 11 x 14 inches clear acrylic or polycarbonate sheet
- 1/4 x 24 x 24 inches MDF project panel
- 3/4 inches 18ga brad nails
- 1 1/2 inches 18ga brad nails
- (8) 1/2-inch screws
- (8) 1 1/4-inch pocket hole screws, fine threads
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (120, 150, and 220 grit)
- Wood putty
- Stain
- Spray polyurethane or clear lacquer
- Flat black paint
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Foam board for mounting items
- Pins, safety pins, photo-safe double-sided tape
- Hardware for hanging the shadow box or adhesive rubber feet if it will stand on a shelf
Cut list
Your box’s dimensions may vary depending on your preferences, but for reference, here’s a typical cut list.
- (2) 1 x 4, 15 1/2 inches long
- (2) 1 x 4, 11 inches long
- (2) 1/4 x 3, 14 inches long
- (2) 1/4 x 4 x 3, 10 1/2 inches long
- MDF Panel, 11 x 14 inches
How to make a shadow box medal frame?
Gather your display items
Start by collecting your medals, photos, caps, insignia, documents, postcards or any items related to military service or important moments in your life.
Dry fit
Assemble the parts without glue or fasteners to ensure everything aligns correctly.
Assemble the medal frame
Use an 18-gauge brad nailer to fasten the box pieces together, or opt for pocket hole joinery if you prefer.
Cut the moulding
Cut the moulding into four pieces, a little longer than their final dimensions, for ease of measuring.
Dry fit and attach the moulding
Lay all four pieces of moulding in place on the box and check the fit. Apply glue to the top edge of the box and the ends of the moulding pieces, then attach them to the box with brad nails.
Apply stain and add clear coat
Stain the oak surfaces and apply a clear coat.
Paint the back and attach medals
Paint the back and interior side pieces. Cut foam board for each item and attach your medals using hot glue.
Install the glass and interior pieces
Place the glass into the box and add the interior pieces. Secure the 10 1/2-inch pieces with brad nails.
Install the back
Carefully place the back into the frame and secure it with screws.
Display the shadow box
Install hanging hardware if needed, considering the weight of your shadow box.
FAQs
How do you make a homemade shadow box?
To make a homemade shadow box, follow the steps given above for creative medal frame ideas.
How do you pin a jersey in a shadow box?
To pin a jersey in a shadow box, carefully arrange and secure it using jersey pins or small sewing pins, ensuring it's well-displayed within the frame.
How do you hang a wooden shadow box?
To hang a wooden shadow box, use appropriate wall anchors and screws to securely attach it to the wall, ensuring it's level and stable.
How do you frame clothes in a shadow box?
To frame clothes in a shadow box, use fabric-friendly adhesive or sew them onto a fabric-covered backing, then place the backing inside the shadow box frame.
How do you display medals in a case?
To display medals in a case, arrange them on a fabric-covered backing within the case and secure them in place using pins or adhesive.
How to make a medal showcase?
To make a medal showcase like a shadow box, follow the detailed steps provided above.
How do I show patches in a shadow box?
To show patches in a shadow box, simply attach them to the fabric-covered backing using pins or adhesive.
How do you display army medals in case?
To showcase army medals in a case, arrange them neatly and pin them to the backing or use a shadow box display.
How do you tie a medal ribbon?
To tie a medal ribbon, make a small loop at one end, thread the other end through, and tighten it securely.
How do you display kids' medals?
Display kids' medals by arranging them in a shadow box or on a medal hanger in their room.
Can I make my own shadow box frame?
Yes, you can make your own shadow box frame using wood and basic tools.
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