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How to Frame an Old License Plate

Each state has its own license plates; the design of the plates changes periodically. Collectors may wish to frame old or unusual license plates to keep them from being damaged. One of the best ways to frame a license plate is via a shadow box. A shadow box is a frame possessing a degree of depth that allows for the insertion of items thicker than a photo.

Things You'll Need

Shadow box
Felt, velvet or scrapbooking paper
Scissors
Spray adhesive
Cutting board
Awl
Hammer (optional)
Wire
Wire snips
Packaging tape

Instructions

- 1
  Choose a shadow box that will accommodate a license plate. The box should measure 12 inches by 6 inches.
- 2
  Arrange the license plate as you want it to look inside the frame. It may be straight or tilted depending on personal desire.
- 3
  Take the shadow box apart. Use the backing of the shadow box as a guide, and cut a piece of felt, velvet or scrapbooking paper of the same size.
- 4
  Spray the back of the fabric or scrapbooking paper with a light coating of spray adhesive. Place the backing of the shadow box on the fabric. Press firmly -- working from the middle to the sides -- to secure them together.
- 5
  Place your backing on a cutting board. Place your license plate on top of the backing.
- 6
  Poke two holes -- using the awl -- right next to each other. Poke through the holes in the license plate and into the backing. Use a hammer to help if necessary.
- 7
  Cut a length of wire measuring about 8-inches long. Feed the wire from the back of the shadow box through one of the holes to the front. Wrap the wire around the edge of the license plate, and then thread it back through the second hole.
- 8
  Twist the ends of the wire together at the back of the shadow box. Use the packaging tape to hold the twisted wire to the backing; this will also help hold the license plate in place. Trim the ends of the wire.
- 9
  Put the shadow box back together.

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