I made a bunch of inspirational signs for Christmas. I used an old desk top that we had at our business before it closed...so, free to me! I used clear contact paper...I had it for years...so, free to me! Cut out a bunch of inspirational quotes: Weeded them, used transfer paper to carefully adhere them to the wood. Then I used a stencil brush and cheap bottle paint that I had for years...free to me! and glammed it up a bit. Peeled off the contact paper... Sanded it a tad...then used a white wash and wiped it off fast for a whity-faded look... I gave them to my mother-in-law and sisters... True story.