I have lots of paper samples, cutouts and photographs up on display in my house, ready to be used in whatever project I'm working on. It's the same as my refrigerator philosophy: anything that's out of view is unlikely to get used. However, because I am picky and obsessive, anything that would mar my precious ephemera is not an option. That means no tacks and no tape. Instead, I use magnet boards to keep everything organized and in view. It's easier to take things down and put them back than with clips or wall putty and one strong magnet can be used to hold way more than one thing at a time.

The key to building magnet boards is to buy a big, fat roll of galvanized steel roof flashing. It's sold in most home improvement stores in the roofing section. Most places stock the aluminum stuff as well as the galvanized steel type, so check before buying because while aluminum is useful, it's not magnetic. You'll end up with about ten feet or more for $10. It sounds like a lot, but it is a material with many uses.



Building the magnet board is really simple. I like to use broken down frames that I get at yard sales. Ones with missing or cracked glass are perfect. Just take the back of the frame and trace its outline on to your piece of flashing.



Then, use tin snips to cut out your piece. The edges can be sharp, so be careful. Slide your piece of metal into the frame the same way you would a pieces of glass, trimming if it doesn't fit at first.



I use these a bunch around the house. I have one with a really fancy frame.



I also, have a wall-length one in my office that's been up since the first month I moved into my house.

Labels: projects

posted by Alison 6/21/2009 09:21:00 PM : (0) comments : splink