Keys

Create a modern arrangement with old-fashioned objects.

What You Need

Two pieces of 11-by-14-inch textured or colored paper

Six inches of red ribbon

Glue stick

Craft glue

An 11-by-14-inch New England Black shadow box (Timeless Frames, comes in six colors, $20 at craft stores)

What You Do

1. The inside of the frame and the included mat are cardboard, so use textured paper to add a finished look. Attach one piece of the 11-by-14-inch paper to the inside of the frame back with a glue stick. Use the included mat and trace it onto the other piece of 11-by-14-inch paper, then cut with an X-Acto knife and a metal ruler. There's no need to attach the new mat to the frame; it will be pushed against the glass once the frame is reassembled.

2. Position the keys on the backing, and play with them until you find an arrangement you like. Tie a red ribbon to one or a few to create a point of interest.

3. Using craft glue, place the keys in their arrangement and let dry for 24 hours.

4. Put the frame back together.

Best For: Graphic three-dimensional objects that need no explaining, like silver spoons, letter openers, vintage metal and enamel numbers or letters, cookie cutters, game pieces, and buttons.

Apron

Immortalize the uniform from your first after-school job.

What You Need

FoamBoard ($2 to $8 per piece, available at craft stores)

12-inch-square of felt

Craft glue

A 12-inch-square shadow-box frame (Jolee's by You, $18, www.eksuccess.com for store locations)

What You Do

1. Take the measurements of the frame backing. Cut a piece of foam core about 1/4 inch smaller on all sides to accommodate the felt background and any excess apron material.

2. Brighten up a muted item with felt cut two inches larger on all sides of the foam core. Wrap it around the foam core, apply glue to the edges, and adhere it to the back. Let dry for an hour.

3. Place the apron on the front and use craft glue in the corners to keep it from slipping. Let dry for an hour.

4. Turn the apron and foam core over, fold the rest of the apron onto the back, and place it in the frame. Replace the backing.

Best For: Items with a memorable graphic, such as embroidered uniforms, camp T-shirts, and vintage clothing labels or handkerchiefs.