Super simple frame

I've been working like mad making another troll and writing the pattern as I work but decided I needed a break. When I was in JoAnn's yesterday they had scrapbook papers 5 for $1. I need more paper like I need a hole in my head but I had this idea .... well, you know how that goes. So I bought a plain wood frame ($1.99) and 4 coordinating papers ($.80). This morning I gessoed and painted the entire frame pink, added strips of the scrapbook papers, varnished it, added rick-rack and buttons and ta da ... a lovely present for my mother! I think this is a perfect Grandmother present, as she has a wall of frames with all the grandkids photos. Probably cost $4.00 and a little bit of time. I think these will make excellent presents for all my friends - just a change of paper and embellishments and it can be personalized. You should make one too!

If you want step by step on how to make this .. just continue on ...

1) Paint entire frame with gesso. Let dry.
2) Paint entire frame with a craft paint that coordinates with your papers.
3) Cut strips of your papers the width of the sides of the frame. You only need one strip of each paper for a small frame. Think how you want the paper to look if you have stripes or other designs before you cut it.
4) Spread glue/modge podge on the frame - one side at a time. Lay your strips of paper on the sides of the frame. It's okay to overlap.
5) Cut 2 strips the width of the inside edge of the frame. Glue the paper to the wood, snipping and folding it to the back of the frame if needed.
5) When dry, turn over and using an exacto knife, trim away excess paper.
6) Add small strips of paper in random places to break up the long strips of paper.
7) Varnish the entire frame. Let dry, do a second coat.
8) Embellish with rick rack, buttons, bows.
9) Be pleased with yourself - you've made a lovely piece of art.