Thrifty "Expression" picture frame

So my sister over at ABODE turned me into a "Blog Lurker."  I actually had a blog running before she did, but let it go when life got too busy.  Then my sister started telling me about all of these wonderful blogs that she had been reading that were inspiring her to let her creative side be free.  I listened but thought, "I don't have the energy for all of that."  Then I started to see her blossom.  She started doing all of these cool projects for next to no money.  On top of that she was having fun, and her family was benefitting from it.  That is when the "lurking" began.  I feel like I know a lot of  you, personally, even if you've never heard from me yet.  I have started building up my craft closet and my garage is filling up (much to dh's disapproval) with thrift store jewels just waiting to be "Cutiefied."

One of my biggest issues is just jumping in.  My house is fairly bare because I am afraid that I will make a mistake.  I don't like that side of me.  I haven't always been so unsure, so I'M BREAKING FREE!  I am going to show you my first little project since I've been introduced to all of you creative angels.  The Bible says not to despise small beginnings, so I won't.  I have lots of ideas for future projects that I hope to share with you really soon.  I could use some advice on when is the appropriate time to do projects, read blogs, and then create blogs, when I homeschool and 3 boys under 9 at home?  I could easily neglect them all day with this new "find."  I won't do that, which is the reason for the slow start.  However, that is a subject for another blog.  Back to my first project:

I just love those cute 'Expression" frames that are everywhere from Hobby Lobby to Hallmark.

 I have been wanting one for a while now.  However, the price always stops me.  Even at 50% off, I always think it is too much of a splurge.  So, I went about trying to make a thrifty version of one.  Here is what I came up with.   I started with a frame and autograph mat both from the Dollar Tree (Love the DT).

Then I spray painted both black.  It took several coats to get a smooth surface.  I learned that cheap black spray paint leaves a nasty black dust behind.  Next time I will probably just use real paint.  Then I had dh apply some stickers that I already had to the picture.  He has a degree in graphic design and even worked at a decal shop for a while.  He has a very creative and steady hand.  Then I did 2 coats of Mod Podge.  I thought some texture might be nice so then I did some swirlies with the Mod Podge.  It also covered up any streaks left behind from my inexperienced "crafting" hands.  I think it turned out great.  Seeing that I already had the paint and stickers, this project cost me only $2.00.  What do you think?

(yes it laying on my carpet.  I kept getting weird glares when I took a picture of it on my wall.)

(Here is a shot that shows the swirly texture. Too much?  I never know when to stop.)  If you have any ideas for any other embellishments that can be "stuck on" let me know.  I don't trust my free hand abilities yet.  Hop on over to todays creative blog to see other inspirations of "Get Your Craft On."