Altered Clipboards, a quick and simple gift that is also inexpensive.
It would be easy to make a lot of these gifts assembly style.
I used small 6"X 9" clipboards found at OfficeMax ($1.69). The notepads are 5" X 8" 50 sheet Jr. size writing pads, found at Wal-mart (6 notepads were only $2.50).
I tried these two ways:
Using Elmer's Spray Adhesive and Krylon Matt Finish
and using Mod Podge Paper Matte
First cut decorative paper to fit the clipboard. For my clipboards 6" X 9" worked perfectly. I took the extra time to make a template that fit around the top of the clip (a little bit of a pain). I have also seen where there is just a rectangle shape cut to fit around the clip. My paper looked like this.
Paint the back of the paper with Mod Podge Paper (Matte) or spray with the Elmer's Spray Adhesive. If you are using spray adhesive also spray the clipboard. Cover the the clip with masking tape to keep it clean. Pay special attention to make sure which ever method used that the edges of the paper are completely covered. Working quickly, place the paper onto the clipboard. This is a bit tricky. It is okay to lift up and reposition until it matches all of the edges properly. Be careful not to stretch the paper. Smooth paper and make sure the entire piece of paper is secured. When I had a spot along the edge that wasn't adhered, I lifted it slightly and added more glue. Allow to dry at least 15 minutes before putting on top coat. Round off corners with scissors.
Give the top of the paper a light coat of Mod Podge Paper in matte or two coats of spray matte finish. I have to say I like the paper feel and look so I prefer the Krylon spray matte finish.
Glue a matching piece of decorative paper to the top of the notepad. Any glue will do.
To give the clipboard an extra nice touch I added a metal label holder. I taped them on with a piece of clear tape exactly where I wanted them and then my husband drilled holes in the metal clip so they could be attached with the brads included in the package.
I painted the metal holders and brads with gloss paint. Open the clip as far as you can so you can attach the metal label holder and spread the brads apart on the back side of the clip.
Finished! I think I will put the recipient's name in the label holders.
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This is a fun gift! Thanks for the tips!!!!
i love it, would make a great gift for the teachers…ThanX for sharing
What a fun project!
Very cute! I’ve made them with fabric and ribbon too!
That’s my go-to gift for all the kiddo birthday parties! Love it.
Just love it! I especially like the metal label holder and paper touches you put on the notepad. It’s all in the details!
Super cute.
Love, love, love this!
I am definitely going to give this a try! Thanks for the step by step instructions!!
Thank you so much for simplifying this for me. Yours are adorable!
Ooh, I LOVE altered clipboards – they are so much fun! Your paper choices are great on this project. Very cute!
SO CUTE!
The nice clipboads are really a great idea. And not expensive!
I like your ideas!
Fab-O idea! Thanks for the great tut too!
This is a great idea! Thanks.
Great idea! You could add a magnet to the back of the clipboard for hanging on the fridge! It’d be a great way to display all my lists in a pretty way! Thanks for sharing…
This is awesome! I’m going to try it with pics of my kids for grandma…thanks for the great idea!
Very nice!! I like how there are no ribbons to hang over the paper (I have one like that, and I rarely use it becuase the ribbons are always getting in the way). Thanks!
Love the name plate idea! I have made these for our kids, to hang on the wall and hold their current artwork. The only problem I found is that the paper sticks to the mod podged surface after awhile. It’s been “dry” now for 10+ months and can still feel tacky. Any ideas?
Cindy, you did a fantastic job on these! I love when something useful can be made cute!
I would like to know where you got the small calendar atttached to one of the cute clipboards.
Very cute! I have been making them in mixed paper patterns because I do not have the patience to make a template! lol
Love, love, love these!!! Heading to the office supply store this week!
Thanks for the great idea.
I love a cute clipboard! Awesome!
Gorgeous! Going to try to make time this week to make a few! Thanks for sharing!
my 2 daughters and I live w/ my mother and we decided to take on a new tradition this year of drawing names to make 1 hand-crafted gift for Christmas. Since I drew my 11 yr old daughter’s name, I am DEFINITELY making this. I’d love to know if anyone has ideas on other accessory items to go w/ it?
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This is so cute! I have got to make some of these someday. I love the coordinating paper that you chose. too cute =)
Anne
I am making mine tomorrow! I can’t wait! My sister has already made hers as Christmas gifts and they are even cuter in person!!!
I am going to have my second graders make these for our school auction. Things that are made by our students sell, sell, sell! I am hoping to have a few parent volunteers to help and maybe our 5th grade reading buddies.. Thanks for all the wonderful ideas these are very doable for my students!