Learn how to make DIY key wall art using a picture frame, fabric, faux antique keys, paint, and Mod Podge. A unique decor makeover!
Have you ever spotted a piece of decor at a store and thought, “That could be so cute if they hadn’t made that choice?”
Maybe it was the color. Maybe it was the pattern. Maybe it was covered in fake gold that looked more Vegas than vintage.
That’s exactly what happened with this project.
I found a piece of key wall art that had a lot of potential. The ornate frame was beautiful. The antique-style keys were interesting. But the overall look just wasn’t me. It felt a little dated, a little dark, and definitely not something I was excited to hang on my wall.
But instead of walking away, I started imagining what it could become.
That’s one of my favorite things about DIY. Sometimes the best projects aren’t built from scratch. Sometimes they’re hiding in the clearance aisle, at the thrift store, or tucked away in the back corner of a home decor shop just waiting for a makeover.
With a little paint, some fabric, and plenty of Mod Podge, this forgotten piece was completely transformed.
The best part is that you don’t need to find the exact same wall art I used. In fact, you can easily recreate this look using an ornate picture frame, a backing board, your favorite fabric, and a set of faux antique keys from Amazon. The process is exactly the same, and you’ll end up with something that feels custom-made for your home.
I chose bright paint shades of teal and aqua because they’re some of my favorite colors, and they pair beautifully with the patterned fabric background. The combination feels vintage, whimsical, and just a little unexpected. But that’s the beauty of this project—you can completely customize it to fit your own style.
Love farmhouse decor? Try distressed white paint and neutral linen fabric. Prefer something dramatic? Go with black, gold, and a bold floral print. Want a cottagecore vibe? Soft pastels and tiny florals would be adorable.
The keys are what really make this piece special. There’s something charming and mysterious about vintage keys. They spark curiosity and add instant character to a room. Mounted against a colorful fabric background, they become less of a hardware item and more of a piece of art.
And honestly, that’s my favorite kind of craft project: the one that takes something ordinary and turns it into something people stop and ask about.
Ready to make your own DIY key wall art? Let’s get started.
Just FYI – this is how mine started. I had to pry slowly so as not to break my keys. Patience is a virtue, my friends.
Get the printable how to below:
Key Wall Decor
Equipment
Materials
- 1 Frame with backer
- Faux antique keys
- Mod Podge
- Fabric
- Craft paint shades of blue
- Mod Podge sealer optional
Instructions
- Sand down the background (if you need to) and then paint it Titanium White. My background was dark, so it was necessary to paint a lighter color so that the background doesn't show through. It will definitely show through if the background is dark and the fabric isn't thick. Allow to dry.
- Make sure your fabric is washed, dried and ironed. Prepare the fabric with Mod Podge – this means putting the fabric down on a non-stick surface and applying a medium layer of Mod Podge.
- Here I'm applying Mod Podge to the back piece. Apply a medium layer and then lay your fabric down – smooth, smooth and smooth!
- Push all of the air bubbles out and wipe away any excess Mod Podge that comes out the sides. Allow to dry. Once the fabric has dried to the back piece, give the top another coat of Mod Podge. Allow to dry.
- Paint your frame. I used the tiny brush and gave it several coats. It went on surprisingly well, and I really enjoyed the painting. Very cathartic.
- Paint your keys with your paint colors. It's going to take several coats, but it's fun.
- Don't forget to use your small brush to paint inside the little grooves and holes.
- Glue the keys down with your craft glue. Allow your key wall art to dry and then give the key portrait several coats of Mod Podge Gloss sealer. It shines and then it's chip proof.
I’m so excited about my easy key wall art that I can barely stand it. Do you like it on my wall?
If you like this DIY wall art, check out more in our archives here! I’d also love for you to check out these other ideas:
Button Wall Art • DIY Photo Mat • Dollar Tree Wall Art • Fabric Canvas Art • Geode Canvas • Junk Mail Art • Magazine Collage • Map Canvas Art • Mosaic Art • Nautical Wall Art • Ocean Resin Art • Paint Chip Art • Paint Swatch Art • Photo Transfer to Canvas • Photo Wall Collage • Scrap Wood Art • Scrapbook Paper Art • Ticket Wall Decor • Watercolor Collage
Too funny- I was at Junk Bonanza this weekend and bought some old keys. I didn’t paint them- they were cool enough/aged on their own, but the overall look is similar. I love my new key art as well 🙂
umm this is amazing!! I love everything about it!! SO CUTE!! I’d love for you to link them up at sundae scoop! http://iheartnaptime.blogspot.com/
LOVE the colors! Your project looks fabulous. Thanks for sharing your great project. I will be linking to it.
Brooke
thecraftcave.blogspot.com
Such a great makeover ! Love the new colours
How fabulous is this?!? I love it!! 🙂
Great job! It looks fantastic! I love the color combination…you really took something that was sad and broken and made it fresh, cheery, and new.
Love it!
Wow this looks amazing!!
I love it, what a great idea
I LOVE those colors! I made single key frames for my daughters room a few years ago, but they were pale pink and white! I think I might have to re-do with these colors! 🙂
Just love the colors!