White boards are a useful re-usable tool for keeping track of lists, project information and notes in both home and office.
Although they are handy, they can also be expensive. You may get lucky at a thrift store, but you’ll be limited to the size and style someone donated.
Making a DIY white board can save you money and let you customize it to suit your space.
You can make a white board in several ways. Which way you chose may depend on the aesthetic you want, size and what materials you have or want to source.
A very simple way to make a white board is to use a picture frame. Using one with a glass panel works particularly well, but a plastic panel will also work.
Into your picture frame, put a simple white or other light-colored background. Foam board works well for this, as it is stiff and won’t slump or wrinkle in the frame. However, you can use other materials or decorate the foam board.
You can choose a shiny or matte finish, with a solid color or with some variation. Add sections of different colors to pre-organize your notes, or create an abstract background that’s interesting to look at. Light colors will give your notes and lists the most visibility.
If you opt for a plastic panel in the frame, test your chosen markers in a small area. Some dry erase markers may not wipe off picture frame plastic easily. Regular markers may be a better option for this material, or sharpies, which should wipe off with the use of a little rubbing alcohol.
Glass works very well, and almost any marker will wipe off easily. If you come across a stubborn one, a little alcohol will do the trick. Glass works well in a frame, or if you have a piece of tempered glass you can even lay it flat on a desk and keep a marker handy to write directly on the glass.
Using a picture frame allows you to choose the size and finish of your white board. It can also help it blend in with other décor.
Another way to make a white board is to buy a white panel board from a hardware store. These panels are also sometimes called tile board or hard board. They typically come in 4-foot-by-8-foot sheets, with a smooth and very glossy finish.
You can use the full sheet if you want an extra large white board, or cut it down to the dimensions of your choice. One panel can make multiple smaller boards — you can even cut some to the size of a sheet of paper.
Use these smaller size boards in place of paper for lists, or as coloring pages for kids — when they are done drawing, simply wipe it clean.
To hang a larger panel board up, you can drill holes near the corners and secure it with screws right to the wall. Next, add trim all around to cover the screw heads.
Alternatively, drill holes in the top corners and loop through wire from which to hang the board. You can still add trim for a framed aesthetic.
These are great ways to make affordable white boards to perfectly fit your space and note keeping preferences.
