I don't think I have enough experience to attack the photos and picture thing, but thinking about the backing and I really like the idea of a solid backing and having people sign it at party. Would I just use a fine tip permanent marker? One of his colors is Gold, maybe use that for back if it's not too bright.
I'll have to look up the Attic Window pattern, since I'm fairly new I don't know many patterns by name.
Thanks all