crate chalkboard

Colorful lettering from produce crates was used to frame this memo board. Ideal for jotting down important appointments, shopping lists and other reminders, it only takes a little patience and a smidgen of skill to make.

Using a handsaw, cut a 9 x 11 in (23 x 28 cm) rectangle out of a piece of hardboard salvaged at the supermarket (be sure the board is not warped). Sand the edges if they are frayed or uneven. Apply one coat of blackboard paint, leaving an outer margin of ½ in (1.5 cm) unpainted. Follow manufacturer instructions for the second coat - can generally be applied 12 hours later.

For the frame, remove the crate bottoms using sharp pliers. Wear protective gloves to avoid injury from slivers and sharp staples. Remove the sides and cut 1 in (3 cm)-wide strips with a craft knife: cut along a metal ruler several times to slice through the thickness. Be sure to optimize the crate lettering and graphics when performing this step.

Select four pieces for your frame: two that measure 9½ in (24 cm) and two 11½ in (29 cm). Cut 45° angles on both ends of each piece using a mitre box and a small saw. Before gluing, make sure the frame lays flat on the hardboard. It should just out from 5 mm on all sides of the board. Apply a coat of glue to each piece and to the margin of the blackboard. Carefully arrange each piece to form the frame, wiping away any excess glue. Place under a heavy book for one night.

Choose a finish (ink and water, for instance) or varnish, or leave the frame untreated. Staple a string or hook to the back if you intend to hang your memo board, and attach a piece of chalk to a rubber band.

January 2007 [recycling crafts]
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