I don’t know about you but my classroom bulletin boards were always in a walking path or where we lined up each day. That caused a lovely issue since we all know that anything on a wall is like a magnet for kids’ hands. So I found an easy way to make my classroom bulletin boards last all year long. Fabric and Duct Tape! Now Duct Tape may not be as cute as some of the borders that you can buy, but I sure do love the price and how long it lasts. So I thought I’d share my quick and easy steps with you!
Measure
Get an approximate length of all of your bulletin boards. You want to make sure you transfer it to yards for when they cut the fabric. Be sure to decide if you want all of your bulletin boards to be the same fabric or if you want to have them be different colors/patterns. I ended up needing about 6 yards of fabric for all of my boards.
Scope out the deals
I would keep my eye open for the sales at Joann’s Fabric during the summer. They tend to have their fabric 50-60% off fairly often. Otherwise, if you need it right away you can usually find coupons on their website. Also check to see if you can get a teacher discount!
Get your supplies
Head on into the store to find your fabric and matching Duct Tape. I like to get a couple of rolls of Duct Tape just to be on the safe side. Plus I can always use the extra tape in the classroom throughout the year. It’s a great way to quickly label something!
Hang and Cut!
Now that I am all set with my supplies I would grab my stapler and always start hanging the fabric up before I cut. I found this easier because sometimes the fabric would stretch differently than I anticipated. I’d staple the fabric down all the way to the end and then cut it. Next, I’d go around the border with the tape. Stretch, press, and cut. Finally, I’d go around the tape board and add a few staples just for good measure.
After that you are good to go to hang up your word walls, student work, quotes, etc. and your bulletin board will be good all year long! I’d love to hear your bulletin board tips!
Keep creating your own sunshine,
Ally
