How to Découpage a Clipboard
Clipboards are great to have at work or in school, but these ordinarily boring boards can also become works of art. Découpage is a simple way to turn something ordinary into something fun and unique. All you do is apply paper cutouts to an object as decoration and then seal the surface. With découpage, you can use anything from leftover wrapping paper to colorful newspaper comics to turn a utilitarian clipboard into something that livens up the office, makes homework more fun for the kids, or displays lists in a far more attractive way.
Things You'll Need
- Clipboard
- Decorative paper
- Découpage medium
- Paintbrush
- Brayer
- Scissors
- Heavy-duty rubber band
Instructions
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1
Trace the clipboard onto your decorative paper. Include the notch for the clip at the top. Cut out the shape.
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2
Wrap a rubber band tightly around the top of the clip to hold it open. Dampen the paintbrush. Use the brush to quickly spread a liberal amount of découpage medium evenly across the front of the clipboard.
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3
Center the paper on top of the clipboard. Press the paper in place. Use the brayer across the entire clipboard to roll out any bubbles. Use the paintbrush to lightly wipe away any excess medium spilling out the sides. Let dry for approximately 20 minutes.
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4
Cut out any additional paper shapes you want to decorate your clipboard with. Cover the back of the shapes entirely with découpage medium. Press them into place on the front of your clipboard. Use the brayer to roll out bubbles. Use the brush to wipe away any excess medium. Let dry for another 20 minutes.
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5
Use your damp brush to evenly spread découpage medium on top of the dry paper. Cover the entire surface. Let the clipboard dry overnight.
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Tips & Warnings
Découpage medium can be purchased at most local craft stores or ordered online.
Work quickly between steps, because the medium can start drying quickly. If your découpage medium dries before you put your paper down, simply add more.
If your clipboard's surface is still sticky after drying it overnight, try spraying it with an acrylic sealer.
Once the front is completely done, try découpaging the back side, too.
Do not over-handle fragile paper once it has découpage medium on it or it will likely tear.
Be careful to keep your hands as clean and dry as possible when handling your paper.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
