DIY Clipboards for Teachers (or anyone really)

 It's the time of year for getting rooms set up for the coming school year. One thing I always looked for when setting up my room was some way to give my room a bit more oomph. I am 100% in favor of personalizing your classroom to make it more interesting and comfortable. For me, there is nothing more boring than going into someone's classroom who has done nothing but add a few ugly posters to the wall (which are covered with dust) and posted rules/procedures on the bulletin board. Ugh! I mean, come on. You have to stay in there all day.  Decorating and personalizing helped save my sanity, and my students liked it, too. It helps establish a tone for your class. Students know you take pride in your space, and they tend to be a bit more respectful of it.

I used clipboards regularly in my classroom. They're a great way to have a mobile writing surface, especially if you're someone who moves around the room a lot. So, one thing I did was a little DIY clipboard activity. I can't remember where I first saw the idea, but I jumped on it immediately. Let me start by saying, I am not the greatest DIYer around. lol! So this is a VERY EASY  craft.

Here is what you'll need:

1. a plain clipboard: You can get these in a variety of sizes and for pretty cheap. There are even some clear acrylic ones that you can use.

2. something to decorate the back: This can be scrapbook paper, contact paper, wrapping paper, even paint, etc. 

3. some way to apply the paper to the back: If you're using contact paper, it is generally self stick, but scrapbook paper or wrapping paper will have to be adhered to the back. I used Mod Podge. It is very easy to use and can be purchased at Dollar Tree for a buck. If you're painting, you might want to Mod Podge over it for protection

4. ribbon, charms, string, etc.: whatever you want to add to the clip to jazz it up a little. Obviously you can be as simple or as elaborate with these as you like.

I made this one with some contact paper that I fell in love with. It was ALL over my classroom. lol! 

These I found online and were my inspiration. Unfortunately, I have no idea where I got them, so I can't give credit to the original creators. As you can see, these were made by decorating the front. I actually found that pretty tough because you have to work around the big clip at the top. And then it is covered up by the paper you are using, so I didn't really see the point. But do whatever makes you happiest.

So, give it a try. And don't be afraid to let your students see your personality coming through. A big Disney fan? Go for it? Collect frogs? Ribbit!! The possibilities are endless. Just go for it.  I think you'll like it.