A Valentine's Day gift shouldn't have to be expensive or conventional. In fact gifts that require thought and effort are usually the ones that don't end up tucked away in a forgotten box in the basement. That's why I love the idea of this personalized photo frame. A wooden frame is inexpensive, easy to find (IKEA carries them), and versatile. Trust me, I'm far from being artistically inclined (in fact, I border on downright ineptness) on and even I managed to make one of these once without once getting my finger glued to the back of the frame.

I really love this personalized picture frame project! It's quick and easy, and makes a perfect customized gift for any occasion. Use the frame as a canvas to extend the theme of the picture inside it.

Items You'll Need
Wooden frame
2 Photocopies of related photographs
Decoupage medium
Foam brush
Sandpaper
Scissors
Thin white glue
Acrylic varnish
Memorabilia (optional)

Use your imagination to come up with a theme for your personalized picture frame. Do you have a picture in front of a landmark? Use a photo of the skyline from that city on the frame (use one that you have, or look on the internet, in magazines or books). Are you an avid hiker? Put a picture of yourself hiking in the middle, and frame it with a photo of the forest you were hiking in when it was taken. Whatever theme you come up with, have fun making this one-of-a-kind treasure!

Visit the Do It Yourself Gifts website to see all of the instructions to make this unique and sure-to-be-appreciated gift. And remember you don't necessarily have to add a photo the way it's done here. Attach some special mementos from your relationship to a frame such as movie stubs from your first date or dried flower petals from the first roses ever received (or given).

» Do It Yourself Gifts