How to Make a Craft Message Board for a Kid's Room
Helping a child become organized can be a challenge but can also provide an opportunity for the two of you to work on projects that will help him de-clutter his room. A message board is easy to construct and can become a child's "go-to" when he needs to remember what he should be doing and any appointments he has. The nice thing about constructing a message board from scratch is that you can help your child design it in a way that fits his personality and interests. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Zinc-coated metal
- Frame
- Heavy-duty nickel-sized magnets
- Cotton fabric of choice
- Hot-glue gun
Instructions
-
-
1
Find a frame in the size of message board you want to construct. You can use an old frame you have at home or pick up one at a rummage sale, antique shop or craft store. If the frame no longer has its hanging apparatus, add one to the back. It will also need tabs on the back that slide into place to hold the metal in. The size of frame you choose will determine what size the rest of your materials should be.
-
2
Order a piece of zinc-coated metal cut to fit the frame at a home improvement store. Make sure it's zinc coated as aluminum and stainless steel won't hold magnets as well.
-
-
3
Obtain a piece of lightweight cotton material. This is where your child can really show his individual personality. Fabric stores have hundreds of different colors and styles for him to choose from. You'll need approximately 1/2 yard of fabric. Cut the material to fit the zinc-coated metal.
-
4
Use a hot-glue gun to glue the edges of the material to the zinc-coated steel.
-
5
Place the sheet of fabric-covered steel onto the back of the frame and make sure that it's secure.
-
6
Allow your child to collect anything that he thinks will make for interesting-looking magnets. Dice, small rocks, shells, small plastic figurines and poker chips will be just the right size. Hot glue the items to the heavy-duty nickel sized magnets. Make sure you use magnets that were purchased at a hardware or home improvement store rather than those that can be purchased at an office supply store. Office supply magnets tend to be too lightweight to hold up well.
-
7
Hang the picture frame on a wall of his room and add magnets to complete the message board.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Be careful when you're working with the zinc-coated metal as the edges can be sharp. One thing that will help is to cover the edges with masking tape. Your fingers will be protected, and the masking tape won't be seen once the metal is in the frame.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
