Fake It Until You Make It(picture frames)

Paddy Doyle painted IKEA trays and stuck them on his wall. I think you should do the same. I bought a wood tray, mod podged it in beautiful Thai paper from Etsy, and stuck intaglios on it. It’s the best thing in my living room.

If you’re framing paper or photos, pay a professional, the glass will protect it. But if you’re adding interest to weird childhood treasures? Frame. My kids’ room has shadow boxes wrapped with Italian Carta Varese paper holding their dad’s action figures and track medals. I’ve used sturdy box lids to frame my own (note: bad) paintings in the style of Marin Montagut. I’ve made little John Derian sticker collages. Apparently you can make papier mâché frames, but simple mod podge has served me well. Give me an affectionate, janky DIY over perfection any day of the week.