DIY Custom Matted Frame Gallery

I FINALLY got around to putting up pictures! It only took me 2 years ... no biggie right?! Step 2 - credenza under the frame gallery. Hopefully that will only take me a year and a half ... oh brother! There is not enough time in the day, and I don't even have kids. Wait till those come along! It will be three years before I update the third bedroom! 

I did have fun with this little project, so I definitely wanted to share. It brings a pop of color to the entryway that was so desperately needed. And since the matting can easily be changed out, you can update these seasonally. Can't wait to find the credenza now! Thinking I will paint it a tealy-blue. What are your thoughts? 

Step 1: For the cusom matting, I used wrapping paper. You can use fabric or wallpaper, and you will get the same effect! I used wrapping paper because it's cheap, and I already had the prettiest designs laying around the house ... that I thought would work perfect on these shelves. Tip: If you don't have any matting in your frame, take a piece of cardstock and cut out a rectangle just a bit smaller than whatever size photo you want to put in the frame, and voila ... you've got some matting to customize! This step is easy ... just trace your homemade or store-bought matting and cut out.

Step 2: Next, trace an "X" in the center of your rectangle. Then cut along the lines of the "X" starting from the center outward. Cut gently, as the wrapping paper rips easily. You will come out with 4 "flaps." 

Step 3: Secure the flaps onto the matting with some tape. Again, fold back with caution as the wrapping paper is delicate and can rip easily.

Step 4: Put the glass in the frame, and then the covered matting. Finally, add your photo behind the matting, and secure with tape. Black and white photos are always great, especially if you are using colorful wrapping paper. You can see the white paint marks on the back of these frames as they were originally black. I didn't want to spend money on getting new frames, so I just painted these white! You can't even tell they are painted ... well until you look at the back. But who's going to do that?

Step 5: You are ready to display your new skills ... oh yeah and your pictures! I love using a couple of different patterns that have a common thread. It creates dimension and cohesion at the same time!

Now just that credenza! Ah ... I can't even look at these photos anymore! The emtpy space is staring me in the face! I've got some work ahead, but I will be sure to share that as well!

Happy Framing!