craftgrrl | why can't you be what i expected?

I'm planning on making small framed collages for my room, just of old, weird pictures, headlines, and anything else random.

But I'm stuck on what kind of base I should put this on. I was thinking I would do each collage on a canvas, so I could paint too. But would that be appropriate? Are there any other sturdy, multi-purpose bases I could use?

Also, in framing these, do I have to use that plastic cover that normally comes with frames? I'm trying to avoid that so I can make these appear old and grungy, and so texture can be felt.

Any advice would be SO appreciated!