Homemade Bulletin Boards for the Kids

[Ahhhh! I really wanted to show you how to make these bulletin boards but I can't find the how-to pictures that I took. :( I might have to settle for written instructions because I just don't feel like taking them apart to show you how to put them together.]

First off, find a nice frame. I was aiming for a frame with pretty detail and more than 1" wide, but you can use your preference. The frame I used for Dabney's was brown wood (I gave it a quick spray with white paint) from Hobby Lobby and the original price was $59.99. Isn't that crazy? I mean, I really liked it, but who would pay $60 for 1 frame? I bought it because it was marked down to $6. Also, grab yourself some foamcore board ($1.50) and some poly batting. I used batting that I already had in the basement. Oh, and some fabric (the size of the frame opening plus about 5" around the sides) and coordinating ribbon. Dabney's board used clearance fabric also from Hobby Lobby ~ $2/yd. The boys' board used a remnant.

Layer the batting and the fabric on the foamcore. Flip the whole deal upside down, pull the fabric taut and then staple it all to the foamcore. Strategically place the ribbons to wherever you want them. I did all horizontal ribbons, but you could do the crisscross design that is so popular or whatever you like. Pull them very taut and staple them in place also. Place the whole deal in your frame and secure. I used my staplegun to keep the board in place, but you could also use clear packing tape on the back.

Hang it up and admire your work!