Introduction: Recycled Cardboard Memo Board

About: I am a Mad Scientist and IT gal with a passion for projects. I love figuring out puzzles, solving problems, and finding out new ways to get things done!

So when we moved we left our old memo board at the old house, and a few months later we realized that we actually really need it.

I didn't want the same old boring corkboard, and the more stylish memo boards cost a pretty penny. So I figured I would make one!

This memoboard uses recycled cardboard I scrounged up to make a cheap, cute, and functional memo board!

Here is What You Will Need:

  • Recycled Cardboard (Thicker is better, and you want it large enough for your memo board)*
    *You might need it to be big enough for 2-3 layers if it is thinner.
  • Fabric
  • Duct Tape (I used normal on the back, and colored for the edges)
  • Stapler
  • Utility Knife and/or scissors
  • Tape Measure or Measuring Stick
  • Optional, but encouraged: T-square

Step 1: Measure Twice, Cut Once

If you have a specific place where you want your memo board, measure the space so you will know it fits.

I sketched out my measurements onto one piece of the recycled box to make sure the cardboard was big enough to make a memo board of the size I wanted.

Step 2: Score and Break

I scored each side along the lines I sketched with a utility knife to cut the cardboard down to the size I wanted.

I wasn't too worried about getting the lines perfectly straight, but you want them as straight as possible.

Step 3: Testing!

I wasn't 100% sure that one piece of cardboard would be thick enough to keep the push pins from hitting the wall, so I tested it out by putting a push pin through it. It stuck out the other side, so another sheet of cardboard was needed.

I made sure my original piece fit the wall where I wanted it, and then used it as a template to sketch out lines and cut out another piece of cardboard.

Step 4: Add Your Fabric

Cut your fabric so it is about 3-4" larger than your cardboard on each side.

Staple it onto your the cardboard sheets, pulling it tight around the front as you go.

I staples the corners first, then the centers, and then the corners again to gather the extra fabric.

Step 5: Duct Tape!

After I stapled it, I used some duct tape to add extra support just in case the staples didn't hold up as well to the test of time.

If you want, this could finish it off, but I thought it still looked a little bland.

I used some purple duct tape to line the edges of the memo board. Muuuuch better looking.

Step 6: Hang It Up!

I used adhesive foam pads to attach the memo board to the wall, but if you wanted you could probably hot glue picture hanging hardware to the back of the memo board.

It works like a charm so far. Enjoy your new nifty memo board!

If you enjoyed this Instructable, or found it helpful, please check out my others, and don't forget to vote for it in the contests!

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