Picture Mats: A Fun Alternative to the Autograph Books

We have always used autograph books for the kids to use in the parks. However, this time we decided to change it up and try something new.

For us, the problem with the autograph books is that once we are home the kids don’t really look at them that much. They sit on the shelf and get looked at once in a while. It’s too bad, because there are such fun memories attached with each trip. So we wanted to try something that would keep the autographs more present in the house.

For years I have seen people use lots of different things for autographs. I’ve seen people use picture mats, shoes, pillow cases, shirts, etc. I liked the idea of using a picture mat, so we bought a couple before our trip. The mats we bought cost around $6 or $7 each and we also bought a pack of multicolored sharpies. We found all the items at a Walmart in Naples (we were visiting Naples before Disney). The mats fit a 5×7 picture in the middle and have plenty of signing room around the edges.

Our biggest concern was walking around with two picture mats and not ruining them. We ended up using one of Disney’s plastic bags and it was big enough to fit both frames and bunch the top closed for the water rides. There was close call when we rode Splash Mountain and were put in the front seats (we got soaked!), but I was able to keep the top closed tight enough and the mats stayed dry.

This was a great way to collect signatures! I don’t think we are going to go back to autograph books. The characters each looked over the mat when they signed and picked their spot. Mickey even spotted Minnie’s signature and put his hands over his heart. It was very cute! Tinker Bell asked the kids if the frame was a hat, because it has the picture cutout in the middle and she thought it was for her bun.

When we got home, I went to a craft store (Michael’s) and they had a sale on some picture frames. So I was able to get two frames for around $20 total. They’re nice frames so I’m glad I lucked into a sale! The frames also came with a picture mat, so I taped the signed mat on top of the unsigned mat. Doing this helps the signed mat pop out a bit. I like the way it came out and can’t wait to hang them up!

The kids loved meeting all the characters and having them sign the picture frame. They’re excited to pick out a picture to put in the middle. I’m happy that these frames will hang in their rooms and it’s something they can see everyday to remind them of all the fun we had. It’s just another way to keep the magic going while we’re home.

Have you used anything other than an autograph book in the parks? If so, what did you use?

Thanks for reading!

*Liz*

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Liz

I love all things Disney, but my main love is for Disney World and I'm always planning for the next trip. Before becoming a Disney blogger, I was a radio DJ, so I guess I'm just continuing in the communication industry, just in a different form. I love talking Disney and I could talk about Disney all day. That's why I started blogging and created the Facebook group. The Disney community is full of friendly, helpful, and happy people...and I love being a part of it! If there is any Disney subject you would like to see covered just let me know! Need help planning your Disney vacation. Feel free to contact myself or Melissa at Never Stop Dreaming Travel Co. We love helping people plan their trips! Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy! Don't forget to check out our Countdown to Disney app! Feel free to email me with suggestions of things you would like to see in the app :-)