Crib Spring Turned Wall Accent
Transform an old crib spring into charming wall decor with this simple DIY project!
Do you love the look of rustic vintage garden gates as wall decor? I do! There’s something so charming and creative about seeing them repurposed as home accents. They add character, texture, and a touch of history to a space.
Unfortunately, where I live, old garden gates aren’t exactly easy to come by. They’re not just waiting around for someone like me to give them new life. So, I decided to create my own version of that vintage-inspired look, and today I’m sharing a simple DIY you can make with just a few materials.
And the best part? I used a thrifted crib spring that I found for just $2 — yes, two dollars!
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Why I Love the Look of Rustic Garden Gates
When you think of vintage garden gates, you probably picture chippy paint, curved ironwork, and vines trailing across sun-faded metal. There’s so much beauty in those imperfections. They add soul and warmth to a home in a way that modern decor can’t replicate.
A garden gate used indoors is an unexpected design element. It instantly becomes a conversation starter and a creative backdrop for displaying photos, seasonal decor, or greenery.
This piece fits perfectly with my home! Cozy, collected, and a little bit old-world. It looks equally charming in a hallway, entryway, or even layered behind a console table.
Supplies You’ll Need
This project is simple and inexpensive, which makes it perfect for a weekend DIY. You can find most of the materials at craft stores or a thrift store.
Materials:
- A small metal or wire garden gate (or even an old crib spring like mine)
- Sandpaper or sanding sponge
- Twine or burlap bunting
- Clothespins
- Fairy lights or battery string lights
- A few printed photos or vintage postcards
- Optional: faux greenery stems or small florals
Tools:
- White matte spray paint or spray chalk paint (I used Rust-Oleum)
- Sandpaper or sanding sponge
- Painting area or sawhorses
- Hammer and nails (for hanging)
- Screwdriver or wall anchors (if your piece is heavier)
How to Transform a Crib Spring into a Rustic Wall Accent
Step 1: Prep and Paint the Frame
Start by giving your crib spring or garden gate a quick cleaning to remove any dust or rust. Mine wasn’t very dirty, so I simply gave it a good dry dusting. Once all the dust and debris are gone, you’re ready for paint.
I knew I wanted this piece to have a heavily distressed, aged look, so I only applied one coat of paint on each side. My goal wasn’t perfection. I wanted the character and depth that come from a slightly uneven finish. After the paint dried, I planned to “rough it up” with sandpaper to bring out that worn, time-loved texture that makes vintage pieces feel authentic.
I used a classic white from Rust-Oleum, but you can choose any soft neutral that fits your home’s color palette — ivory, matte black, or even antique gold look beautiful.
Don’t worry about making it perfect. A little unevenness or distressing adds charm and gives that “aged over time” feel. Once the paint is dry, lightly sand around the edges and corners to reveal just a bit of the metal underneath.
When my paint had dried on both sides, I went in with sandpaper — starting with a fine 220-grit to gently lift the paint, then switching between a few different grits to create an authentic, worn finish. The result is a soft, weathered patina that looks like it’s been around for decades.
Step 4: Hang and Style
Use a hammer and nails (or wall anchors for heavier pieces) to hang your frame securely. A vertical layout works beautifully in small hallways or entryways, but a horizontal orientation makes a great backdrop behind a sofa or console.
I chose a small hallway that leads to my stairwell (which you can view here) — the perfect spot for a cozy, vintage-inspired accent. This little corner needed something with personality and texture, and the crib spring added just the right touch of charm without overwhelming the space.
Add Bunting and Photos
Next, drape your burlap bunting or twine across the frame in a loose zigzag pattern. Secure it with mini clothespins or tie it at the corners. This is the exact bunting I’ve used for numerous projects and highly recommend, you can find it here.
Then, clip your vintage photos, postcards, or small prints along the string. Mix black-and-white and sepia tones for that timeless, collected look.
This is where the project becomes personal — each image tells part of your story and brings warmth to the display.
Enjoy Your Creation
What makes this project special is how it blends sentiment with simplicity. It’s not just a decor piece — it’s a memory board that tells a story. Every photo, postcard, or clipping adds to the narrative, creating a one-of-a-kind focal point that feels right at home in your space.
I hope this post inspires you to look at everyday pieces — even old crib springs — in a new way! Would you try this project in your home? Let me know in the comments below.
Do you love thrifted & salvaged DIY projects? Check out my salvaged light fixture decor!
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