Don't let your children's baby things gather dust in a drawer. Put those memories on display in a shadow box. It couldn't be easier to transform your children's finger paintings, toys and outgrown clothing into meaningful DIY art. Just keep these simple tips in mind.

Above: shadow box, Custom Art Concepts.

Memories

• The only rule? There are no rules. If an object holds sentimental value to you, you can make it work in a shadow box.
• Toys, clothing, artwork, photos, newspaper clippings etc. are all fair game.
• Try to gather items of varying texture, pattern, colour, size and/or shape to add visual interest to your shadow box.

Materials

• Foam board is key for creating forms and adding depth to the collage.
• You don't want your memorabilia slipping and sliding within the shadow box frame. Use a hot-glue gun and/or spray glue to keep everything in its place.
• For items that you don't want to glue down, use straight pins or decorative clips to hold them in place.

Method

• Create forms to help fabrics and knits (e.g. baby booties) hold their shape.
• Mount photos or digital prints for a personal touch.
• Layer and overlap objects to add dimension.
• Fill the frame. Use decorative paper or small books to bridge any gaps in the collage.