For years, I admired those framed chalkboards & bulletin boards, but The Budget Diet girl inside of me couldn't justify spending $40+! So, I figured out how to make them for less than $10, and they make perfect teacher gifts! Here's how to make your budget friendly framed chalkboard or bulletin board:

#1. Find an old picture frame of any size...these are easy to find at garage sales, flea markets, Goodwill or thrift stores for just a few dollars! Also...always be on the lookout for a "free curbside treasure"...a.k.a. the trash!

#2. Take your frame to Michael's or Hobby Lobby and have them cut a piece of foam board to fit.

#3. If you're making a chalkboard...take the foam board home & paint it with chalkboard paint. Next...return to Michael's or Hobby Lobby and have them insert the foam board into the frame & finish the back.

#4. If you're making a bulletin board...buy a piece of burlap & take it to Michael's or Hobby Lobby...they will mount it on the foam board, insert the foam board into the frame & finish the back.

#5. Have you child write "Have a Great Summer" on the chalkboard OR write a thank you note to the teacher & pin it to the bulletin board. If the chalkboard or bulletin board is a gift for a friend or family member, simply write a note on the chalkboard or pin a note to the frame.

Once you've mastered making these...you might just give them to all your friends & family! Just remember, always be on the lookout for old frames!

sacred geometry