Wednesday, September 2, 2009

DIY: Beautiful in Burlap

Bit by bit my studio is slowly starting to take shape. A few weekends ago I finished a burlap bulletin board and it's an easy DIY for anyone. I love a framed fabric covered bulletin board for children's rooms, offices and kitchens. They make your catchall spaces look more organized, turn your children's art into priceless collections and the frame pulls it all together for a polished look.

Here is mine right next to my gorgeous Janet Hill paintings. Below is a step-by-step guide to create your own.



I started with an inexpensive ceiling tile from the hardware store and an open back frame. With a straight edge and an exacto knife I trimmed the ceiling tile to fit snuggly into the framed. Be careful when handeling your ceiling tile, they are fragile and break easily.



I wrapped and stapled the ceiling tile with burlap and folded the corners like a present for a clean finish. Be sure to pull your fabric taut so it doesn't pucker or wrinkle.



Using fabric pins, a measuring tape and staple gun I meaured and layed out my grosgrain ribbon diamond pattern. The fabric pins help to keep the ribbon in place as I pulled, wrapped and stapled it to the back of the ceiling tile. Here you can get creative with your ribbon pattern and colors to create a custom look.



Almost done.



I tufted the front using Dritz buttom covers in 1 7/8" sizes and an upholstery needle. You'll need a long, strong upholstery needle to push through the ceiling tile to the back. to keep my button knots in place, I used plastic buttons to secure the back and knotted three times.



I just popped the finished product into the frame and whoa la! A beautiful burlap frame to organize my notes.

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