How to Make a Designer Wall for Sewing

Inexpensive luan plywood can be used to construct a designer sewing wall.

Both novice and expert seamstresses appreciate having a dedicated workspace. An efficient sewing area can be located in large craft rooms or tiny closets. Constructing a designer wall for sewing isn't as difficult as one might think. A well-organized designer wall ensures that sewing supplies are within easy reach. Sewing projects can be completed quicker when scissors, patterns, magazine clippings and other tools of the trade are all in one central location. A designer sewing wall can be completed with a few low-cost materials and no special woodworking skills.

Things You'll Need

• 1/16-inch luan plywood
• Straight edge
• Felt fabric
• Ribbon
• Staple gun
• Hot glue gun
• Tape measure
• Scissor
• Wood saw
• Sandpaper
• Self-adhesive hook and loop tape

Instructions

1. Determine the desired location of the designer wall. Measure the space with a tape measure. Take into consideration any electrical outlets and avoid them if at all possible.

2. Transfer the measurements to a piece of 1/16-inch thick luan plywood. Cut the luan board to size with a wood saw. Sand the edges if necessary.

3. Lay a large piece of felt fabric on a clean floor. Lay the luan on top of the fabric. Wrap the luan with the fabric as you would a package. Staple the fabric on the back of the luan.

4. Wrap ribbon on the diagonal in one corner of the wrapped luan. Bring the ribbon ends to the back of the luan and glue or staple in place. Repeat the process to wrap ribbon in the opposite corner of the board.

5. Cut two lengths of self-adhesive hook and loop tape. Adhere the hook side to the back of the luan board. Place one length at the top and one at the bottom. Adhere the loop side of the hook and loop tape to the wall. Attach the luan board to the wall by lining up the hook and loop tape.

6. Place sewing patterns, fashion magazine clippings and other supplies under the ribbon. Use the felt surface to audition quilt blocks and fabric swatches.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply hot glue to the hook and loop tape for a stronger bond.

• Frame the board with picture molding for a permanent designer wall.

• Masonite can be used instead of luan.

• Home improvement centers will cut the luan for you at no charge.

• 1/16-inch luan is thin enough to be cut with a box cutter and straight edge.

Resources

• Oh Fransson; Making a Design Wall for Any Space; April, 2011
• Bella Online; Design Wall - How to Make Your Own; Judy Bellingham
• Craft Diva; Make a Fabric Covered Memo Board; May, 2010