This project was made for the Elmer’s Can You Top This contest #CanYouTopThis. A couple of weeks ago I was prepared to go in a whole different direction and even had many of the elements completed (nativity puppet show). However, a few days ago I realized that this could solve a major problem in my household.
I have two school-aged children (one with autism) and when they sit at the kitchen table to do their work, they are easily distracted–by each other. I decided to come up with this system to give them their own space at the kitchen table that can allow them to focus on their own work.
SUPPLIES:
Elmer’s Tri-Fold Board
Chalkboard paint
Tempera paint
Elmer’s Multi-Purpose Spray adhesive
scrap cardboard
Clothespins
Velcro
Small boxes (I use these)
Paintbrushes
Box cutter
Bone folder
Step 1: Cut your tri-fold board in half. You’ll be using the 35.5″ side so measure in 17.75″ and cut with your box cutter. This is probably the most difficult step in the whole process–which should assure you that this project is easy peasy.
Step 2: Measure in 2.5″ from the fold. Score (using a bone folder) the board parallel to the existing fold. Repeat this step for the other fold. The following picture shows you what you are trying to achieve. You want some space when you fold up the board.
Step 3: Mark off a space in the middle of the board for the chalkboard paint. I used a box I had lying around that measured around 10″ X 12″.
Step 4: Apply chalkboard paint. Use instructions on bottle. Mine said to paint one coat in one direction and the second coat the opposite. It also needed to cure for 24 hours. You can complete the rest of the steps while that is happening.
Step 5: Paint the front of the board. I used tempera paint (pink on the sides and black surrounding the chalkboard paint) but you can really decorate the front however you want (decoupage, anyone?). You can also see the second homework station I have in the background. This is a 2 for 1 project!
Step 6: These directions will be intentionally vague. You can put whatever you want on your homework station. Customize it for your child and their age. I’m showing you how to make a box using spare cardboard. This one is for an eraser. Wrap your cardboard around to make sure it fits. Fold up a small piece at the bottom.
Cut slits in the bottom so you can fold it around to form your open-topped box. Using the Elmer’s Spray Adhesive (or other strong adhesive), glue the box together.
Once the glue is dry, paint the box. When it is completely dry, attach it to your board using the Elmer’s Spray Adhesive.
Step 7: This step involves the rest of the little things you can attach to your station. I used velcro strips to attach boxes of chalk.
I always have a few of these boxes on hand. I save them because they are great sizes and fun colors. I attached these to the board using Elmer’s Spray Adhesive.
I also attached 4 white clothespins across the top of the board (2 on each side) using the spray adhesive.
My daughter loves her finished board! She is going to decorate it more in the coming days. Really, the sky’s the limit! For my son’s board I will probably add a magnetic strip along one side to hold some magnets, scissors, etc… and a pouch for papers (instead of the clothespins).
This was a fun project to make and I’m glad I had the contest to motivate me to get it done!
Speaking of contests… November challenge entries are due tonight! There will not be a challenge in December so you have a few more weeks to purchase your packet for January! Happy crafting!
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