Create a framed wall collage for under $30

I wanted to create a focal point on this blank wall in my living room but had a limited budget. With a little luck and ingenuity, I was able to pull this photo collage together for under $30. Here's how.

First, I started with the frames. I went to Ikea and bought 12 of the NYTTJA frames for $1.99 each, for a total of $23.88 plus tax. They come in a variety of colors, but I chose black.

Next, I needed to find something to fill the frames. I lucked out by finding a tulip calendar on clearance for $2.50. It was a simple matter to take the calendar apart and trim each page down to the right size.

All that was left was to hang the frames. There are several methods to get the perfect spacing for a collage. Since all my frames are the same size, I simple measured a grid on the wall and put my nails in place.

I love how this all came together. It has definitely become a focal point in the room and quite a conversation piece as well.

Since I already had nails on hand, my total cost for the project was about $26.50. Now that's what I call a bargain!

Deedah's Designs: the inspiration behind the name

When my oldest nephew was a baby, I babysat him on a fairly regular basis. My brother worked full time and my sister-in-law was in school. I had recently graduated from college and didn't have a regular job, so I had the opportunity to get to spend several days a week with baby J for about four months. I adored this time with him. As the first grandchild in the family, he was a bit spoiled (in a good way) and was absolutely adorable. As he was learning how to talk, he couldn't pronounce my name, Lisa, but instead called me Deedah. It was adorable. I tried on occasion to teach him to say my name correctly, but Deedah had already stuck. So, from that point on, I became Aunt Deedah. It is a title I have become quite fond of over the years, and I will always be glad to answer to it.