Creative Ways to Frame Souvenirs

Bringing home a souvenir is one of the great joys of travel. But once the holiday tan fades and the fridge magnets pile up, what do you actually do with them? Shove them in a drawer? Let them gather dust on a shelf? Surely your memories deserve better.

That’s where custom framing comes in. A well-chosen frame can transform your keepsakes into conversation-starting centrepieces. Whether it’s a pressed flower from a Parisian park or a ticket stub from your first Grand Final, framing souvenirs helps preserve those moments and showcase them with style.

If you’ve ever Googled frame souvenir and come up uninspired, we’re here to help. Let’s explore some creative ways to turn your travel mementoes and cherished keepsakes into framed masterpieces.

Think beyond the postcard

Yes, postcards are an obvious candidate for framing, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Here are some more unusual souvenirs that look stunning behind glass:

• Maps: Frame souvenirs like a vintage city map or the route of your road trip.
  

• Currency: Notes and coins make a beautiful, graphic display.
  

• Pressed flowers: Framing souvenirs such as blooms from a special place or event adds a beautiful personal touch.
  

• Textiles: Scarves, handkerchiefs, or fabric swatches add texture and colour.
  

• Tickets: Concert, theatre or transport tickets capture the spirit of an experience.
  

• Shells and sand: A shadow box frame can hold three-dimensional objects safely.

If it sparks joy and fits in a frame, it’s fair game, and an ideal way to frame souvenirs creatively.

Create a story wall

One souvenir is lovely. A collection tells a story.

Consider creating a gallery wall that evolves with your travels. Mix and match frames of different sizes and styles for an eclectic, curated look. Group framed souvenirs by theme — say, coastal adventures, city escapes, or family history — to give your display a cohesive feel.

The beauty of a gallery wall is that it grows with you. Each new adventure brings fresh material to add, keeping your space personal and dynamic.

For advice on framing options to suit gallery walls, a professional framing services team can help guide you.

Go 3D with shadow boxes

Some souvenirs are too bulky or delicate for a flat frame. Enter the shadow box.

Shadow boxes are deep frames that allow you to display three-dimensional items safely. They’re perfect for:

• Jewellery or watches

• Small figurines or ornaments
  

• Sports medals or race bibs
  

• Baby shoes or clothing
  

• Dried flowers or foliage
  

• Keys or locks from a love bridge

Shadow boxes also shine when used for memorabilia framing, a fantastic way to honour life’s special moments in a display that lasts. They are one of the most versatile ways to frame souvenirs that don't fit a traditional frame.

Pair souvenirs with photos

Photos and souvenirs are natural partners. Framing souvenirs alongside your favourite snapshots elevates both.

Try these combinations:

• A photo of a landmark with the matching ticket or map
  

• A beach snap with a shell or piece of driftwood
  

• A concert photo with your wristband or setlist
  

• A wedding picture with pressed flowers from your bouquet

The visual storytelling possibilities are endless. And a professional framing services team can help you arrange everything so it looks cohesive, not cluttered.

Use creative mounts and backgrounds

Don’t underestimate the power of a good background.

Instead of plain white or black, consider using coloured matboards to highlight your framed souvenirs. For example, you might use red, green and white for an Italian piece, or shades of blue for beach memories.

We also offer a range of suede and textured matboards, perfect for making special items feel more indulgent and elevated within your display. 

A well-chosen background adds depth and enhances the aesthetic of your framed souvenirs. It can also tie together a gallery wall or themed collection.

Mind the materials

Souvenirs are often fragile or light-sensitive, so it’s important to protect them properly.

High-quality framing services use materials designed for preservation:

• UV-protective glass to prevent fading
  

• Acid-free mats and backing to avoid yellowing
  

• Hinging techniques that won’t damage your items

This is especially crucial for fabrics, paper goods, dried botanicals, and photographs. When in doubt, a professional framing services team can advise exactly how to safeguard your framed souvenirs for the long haul.

Why custom framing is worth it

Could you stick your souvenirs in a cheap off-the-shelf frame? Technically, yes. But if you want them to last and look fabulous, custom framing souvenirs makes all the difference.

Here’s why:

• Tailored fit: No awkward gaps or forced trimming.
  

• Quality materials: Protection against UV light and dust.
  

• Professional design: Expert advice on layout, colours, and style.
  

• Longevity: Your keepsakes stay safe and beautiful for years to come.

Ultimately, a framed souvenir isn’t just décor,  it’s a piece of your personal story. And it deserves to be told well.

Ready to frame your souvenirs?

Whether it’s a single special keepsake or an entire wall of travel memories, Portfolio Picture Framers can help you frame souvenirs with style and care.

As framing specialists, we love working with unique objects and creative ideas. From memorabilia framing to bespoke gallery walls, we offer a range of framing options and high-quality framing services to bring your vision to life.

Pop into our studio or get in touch today, and let’s turn those dusty keepsakes into beautifully framed souvenirs you’ll treasure for years.