I was a huge fan of La Femme Nikita growing up. I remember that scene where she decorates the apartment by hanging her wast sunglass collection over the kitchen counter.
I don’t have an impressive collection like hers, but I know how to turn a practical storage solution into a nice decorative piece. Below, you’ll find two types of sunglass holders anyone can make. And if you don’t like them for some reason, there are also a couple of other interesting ideas from around the web.
Picture Frame DIY Sunglass Holder
This is such an attractive solution, and you don’t need any DIY skills to make it work. Plus, it’s easy to adapt to any style and decor.
You can either make a frame from scratch or make a trip to your local flea market, second-hand or antique store, and find one there. The latter option will allow you to finish the project in mere minutes (not accounting for glue curing time).
You will need:
- A picture frame.
- Some string, ribbon, or elastic.
- Glue, stapling gun, or nails.
- Masking tape.
- Optional: paint and other decorations.
Step 1 – Make and/or prep the frame.
If you’re making the frame from scratch, have fun! When it comes to old frames, you probably have nothing to do, especially if you don’t plan to paint them or add anything else.
However, take a moment and see if it will need a bit of sanding. After all, it would be nice to eliminate any chance that the holder may scratch your sunglasses.
Step 2 – Measure out the string or elastic.
You will need to measure out the width of the frame and add a bit extra. Especially if you’re using glue, you want a little more surface area so you can get a good hold.
You can also work with a single piece and thread it through the frame, or play with other arrangements and options.
Step 3 – Attach the string or elastic.
If the frame is rather old, it’s better to use glue instead. Feel free to reach for your trusted glue gun, especially if you are following up with masking tape and you won’t hang that many sunglasses.
However, it may be better to pick some type of bonding super glue for this project. It will take longer to dry and cure, but it will buy you peace of mind in the long run.
If you’re working with an ornate frame, you will probably not be able to clamp it. Instead, lay it right side up. Cover with a towel and lay a light weight on it (a hardcover book or another frame). Keep the weights on only for the first hour or two of curing, then remove them.
Step 4 – Apply masking tape.
This step is optional but highly recommended. Masking take will protect the string from fraying, especially when you move the sunglasses and the frame scrapes against the wall.
If you want, you can go a bit further and use cardboard or plywood to line the back of the frame.
Step 5 – Wait, maybe.
If you’ve used nails or the stapling gun to attach the string to the frame, you don’t have to wait at all. But, if you’ve used glue, wait for it to dry and cure. This may take up to 24 hours, but check the product’s packaging for more details.
Wooden Board DIY Sunglass Holder
It doesn’t have to be wood – any board or plank will do the trick. The advantage of this one is that you can work around what you have on hand, as well as your skill level. The more skills you have, the more polished this project will look.
You will need:
- A board or a plank.
- Some string ribbon, or elastic.
- Glue.
- Hanging hardware.
- Optional: paint and other decorations.
Step 1 – Shape, paint, and decorate.
Whatever you plan to do with the plank or the board, do it now. Paint it, varnish, or bedazzle it – have fun and let your creative spirit soar.
Step 2 – Pick and measure the string or elastic.
Elastic is a better option because it will hold the sunglasses in place better. But if you only have some string on hand, it will do.
The elastic doesn’t need any give, but if you’re using string, it will need some breathing room. It shouldn’t be more than a mere fraction of an inch but still do a quick test to make sure that you can pull out the sunglasses easily.
Step 3 – Attach the elastic or string.
In one of the examples, the string goes through the board. If you want to copy this, you will not have to attach the string to the board but make sure that you close the loop well. Super glue will do the trick, but don’t mess with anything until it cures properly.
Step 4 – Attach the rest of the hardware.
Whether you’re using hanging hardware or simple string, it’s time to add it to your project. You can also go skip this and lean the plank or the board against the wall.
Step 5 – Wait.
If you have been using glue for most of this project, make sure to wait at least 24 hours for it to cure properly. Read the instructions on the product’s packaging for further curing info.
Cardboard or Posterboard DIY Sunglass Holder
11 easy steps to make this DIY sunglass holder. Let’s get started!
Step One: Gather Your Supplies
To make a DIY sunglass holder, you will need the following supplies:
- A piece of cardboard or posterboard
- Scissors
- Ruler or tape measure
- Paint and/or markers
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- String or ribbon
Step Two: Cut Out the Holder Shape
Using a ruler or tape measure, draw or trace a rectangular shape onto your cardboard or posterboard. Then, using scissors, cut out the holder shape. Make sure to cut on the inside of the lines so that your finished product is symmetrical.
Step Three: Decorate the Holder Shape
In this step, you will decorate the holder shape. You can use paint, markers, or whatever else you want. Be creative and have fun!
Step Four: Glue the Ends of the String/Ribbon
Take one end of your string or ribbon and glue it to the top left corner of the holder shape. Then take the other end of the string or ribbon and glue it to the top right corner of the holder shape. Make sure that both ends are glued down securely.
Step Five: Hang Your Sunglasses!
Now that your DIY sunglass holder is finished, all you need to do is hang it up! You can attach it to a wall with some screws or nails, or you can hang it from a hook. And that’s it! You now have a handy place to store your sunglasses.
Ideas From Around the Web
You don’t like what I have to offer? Here are a few additional ideas from other DIYers that may work instead.
- Do you sew? If you do, check out this tutorial by Etcetorize. It’s pretty simple, and even an absolute beginner can tackle it.
- This wood and leather rack by Something Turquise looks very modern and expensive. And all you have to do is glue a few bits together.
- A simple wooden rack by MAY DIY. It doesn’t require that many materials, but you will need some woodworking knowledge and a few power tools.
- Taking it to the next step, why not make a proper set of shelves for your sunglasses? If you’re in the mood to do so, go to curate for full instructions.
- Anyone who wants to spend more time and effort on this project must check out this idea from Mod Podge Rocks Blog. These little holders are super cute and a must-have for any space that needs a bit of brightening up.