Fun Personalized 2X4 Photo Blocks

I saw these super cute 2X4 photo blocks over at How Does She? and I loved the idea.  So I took their idea and changed it up a bit to make it fit what I wanted to create!

Here are the steps that I took to create these wonderful gifts...

1. Cut 2X4's to size (see sizes over on How Does She?) I used 1 block per name that I was going to print.
2. Sanded the blocks, wiped the sawdust off
3. Use wood glue and clamps to glue blocks together (if desired)
4. Stained blocks with desired stain
5. Pick out scrapbook paper to coordinate with home decor
6. Measure blocks to know how big to make names
7. I used Microsoft Word Art to create the names ( you can size them like a picture if you set "Text Wrapping" to "Tight", you can also change the color of the names too)
8. Then I printed out a the name on a blank piece of paper to test the size
9. Print out name on desired paper
10. Cut to size of block
11. Modge Podge paper to block and over the top of paper
12. Get 16-18 gauge wire to hold pictures (use needle nose pliers and wrap wire around them to create picture holder) wrap wire before inserting into blocks.
13. Drill hole in blocks, the hole will need to be just a bit larger than the wire.
14. Use any kind of strong glue, put some in the hole and then insert wire. Let dry.
15. Wrap with coordinating ribbon and tie bow or just knot at top for decoration.

The finished blocks that you see I gave as a gift and my friend was over joyed with it!  She loves to take pictures of her precious kiddos (and hubby) so it is a great gift for her.  I added ALOT of picture holders on hers...you can add less if desired.

How Does She? has more 2X4 ideas...I LOVE LOVE LOVE this blog...if you haven't seen it check it out for some fun, creative and inexpensive ideas!!!

Thanks for stopping by...please feel free to leave comments and/or suggestions!