Tools and Materials
Buckle
Photo or photocopy of image
Dremel rotary tool
#409 cutoff wheel
#932 grinding stone
Pencil
Card stock
Scissors
Archival double-sided tape or glue
Small paintbrush
Adhesive magnetic sheeting

Belt Buckle Frame How-To
1. Use buckle that has a sizable opening, and choose a graphically bold image, such as a close-up portrait. Make a photocopy of the photo, reducing it to fit, if necessary.

2. Remove the buckle's center bar using a Dremel rotary tool fitted with a #409 cutoff wheel. On a low setting, cut a section from the middle of the center bar, leaving about 1/4 inch at each end to prevent chipping. Carefully abrade the rest of the bar with a #932 grinding stone. You may use vise grips padded with cloth to hold it steady.

3. Trace the outside of the buckle onto card stock. Cut out the shape; this forms the backing. Attach the photocopy to the backing with archival double-sided tape or archival glue. Glue the front edges of the photocopy to the buckle, and weigh it down with a few books. Let dry for at least eight hours. To magnetize frames, cut several strips from adhesive magnetic sheeting, and affix them to the backing.

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