I love pretty paper! I have a large collection of patterned papers for all my future projects. My problem is that I keep buying it when I know that I have tons to choose from at home! I must be addicted to paper…

One fun, easy project that I’ve used my paper for is Altered Clipboards. These make great teacher gifts. I’ve given several over the years to my kiddos teachers at school, mother’s day out, and even our Brownie Troop Leaders. Here’s a list of supplies needed:

clipboard- I usually buy mine at Wal-mart for around $1.00

12×12 patterned paper- at least two coordinating patterns

ribbons- I like to use 7 or 8 different colors, patterns, and types that coordinate with the paper

Mod Podge- I use the matte finish found at any craft supply store

foam paint brush

corner rounder

ruler

paper cutter

scissors

Any embellishments - chip board letters, rub ons, stickers, etc.

Measure width and length of clipboard. Decide which paper will be the dominate one and which will be the accent. Cut papers to correct width. Measure the metal clip at the top of the board and transfer measurements to dominate paper. Cut out the area where the clip will be. Lay dominate paper on board to decide how long it should be. I usually have it about 3/4 of the length of the board. Lay the accent paper on the bottom 1/4 of the board overlapping the dominate paper a little. Cut papers to desired lengths. Use the corner rounder to round the exposed corners. Apply very thin layer of Mod Podge to top 3/4 of board Lay dominate paper over it smoothing any air bubbles out with your hand. Apply thin layer of Mod Podge to the rest of the board overlapping the first paper a little. Lay accent paper over the bottom part of the board. Again smoothing out any air bubbles with your hand. Let dry. This usually takes 15 minutes or so. Cut a piece of ribbon the width of the board. Apply a layer of Mod Podge over the seam where the two papers meet. Place the ribbon on the seam to cover it. Allow to dry another 10- 15 minutes. When the board and ribbon are completely dry, place any embellishments on the board and apply a thin layer of Mod Podge over the entire board covering all edges well. Again allow to dry. Sometimes I add a second top coat of Mod Podge if my embellishments are thick, such as chip board. While the board is drying, cut several different ribbons about 4 inches long. I usually cut 2 or 3 of each different one depending on how full I want the ribbons to look. When the clip board is completely dry, tie the ribbons around the metal clip at the top of the board. Enjoy your Altered Clipboard!!