Decorated Clipboards

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Altered Clipboards, is a quick and simple gift that is also inexpensive. It would be easy to make a lot of these gifts assembly style.

Items I used for the Clipboards

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 Walmart (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

Starting the Project

• First cut decorative paper to fit the clipboard.  For my 6″ X 9″ clipboards it worked perfectly.  I took the extra time to make a template that fits 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 Elmer’s Spray Adhesive. If you are using spray adhesive also spray the clipboard. Cover the clip with masking tape to keep it clean. Pay special attention to make sure whichever method is 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 didn’t adhere, I lifted it slightly and added more glue. 
• Allow it to dry for at least 15 minutes before putting on the 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. No matter which technique you use you must let each layer of glue dry. The Modge Podge will be a more durable surface.
• Glue a matching piece of decorative paper to the top of the notepad. Any glue will do.

For an Extra Touch!

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.

More DIY Projects

• Let me show you how to decorate a clipboard using your child’s artwork DIY Child’s Artwork Decorated Clipboard {Great Gift!}
• Embossed Metal Drink Charms all the items can be found at a craft store for this project.
• Garden Markers (Craft Camp) this is a great project your kids will love!
• If you are into fall baking, these golden DIY Embossed Metal Cupcake Toppers are a simple way to decorate cupcakes or even a cake.
• What’s great about this project is minimal supplies are needed to make your very own Reindeer DIY Christmas Wrapping Paper.