When I was first dreaming up how to create the most functional desk space for Sam’s bedroom makeover I envisioned two large pinboards on either side of his computer screen. He has really been into drawing lately and I wanted him to have a place to put up his creations and other items like photos with friends. As it goes with most things, the exact items I envisioned didn’t exist. I could have either changed my vision or get creative with DIY. Changing my vision isn’t going to happen, I’m always going to DIY.

Supplies

• Frame (I used this floating canvas frame which came with canvas clips and hanging hardware, 18″x36″)
• Canvas clips (if your frame doesn’t come with them)
• Insulation foam board
• Fabric
• Photo matting or other backing material like cardboard
• Duct tape
• Box cutter & straight edge

How to Make it

Frame

You have so many options with it comes to the frame of your DIY pinboard. Depending on the size you are looking to create you can use a store bought picture frame or canvas frame. You could even create your own frame out of wood or moulding. For this project I wanted the pinboard to be set back further than the frame with a deep lip so I opted for a floating canvas frame. Due to the size I needed I ordered a custom sized Bhodi frame in an 18″x36″ from Custom Picture Frames. They’re my go-to for frames. This frame came with canvas clips and hanging hardware.

Insulation Foam Board

The most amazing material for creating your own pinboard! I’ve used this in the past when creating extra an extra large pinboard for Izzy when she was younger. It’s lightweight, easy to cut down to size, cheap, and HUGE (4’x8′).

For this project I cut down the foam insulation board down to the exact inside measurements of my frame for a snug fit. Use a straight edge to get a clean line and make sure your box cutting blade is nice and sharp. A dull blade will make your edges bumpy and it won’t look clean once wrapped with fabric inside the frame. Trust me, I made this mistake the first time and had to recut it.

Fabric

You can use whatever fabric you want so long as it isn’t too thick. I used a natural linen. To attach the fabric I just pulled it nice and tight (like you’re upholstering it) and taped it in place on the back with duct tape. You could use a spray adhesive to help with adhesion, I’ve done that when using painter’s drop cloth on a different pinboard, but I don’t recommend it with a thin fabric like linen where it could bleed through if there’s too much glue in an area. This was another issue I ran into with my first go around. Learn from my mistakes! All of that to say the duct tape works just fine.

Backing

This part could be optional, but I prefer my DIY projects to not look DIY. You know what I mean? To cover up the exposed back with the duct tape I cut down a piece of black photo matting. You could also use cardboard if you have that on hand. This was placed inside the frame first, then the pinboard was slid in place on top of it.

Hardware

The floating canvas frame that I used came with canvas clips that screw to the back of the frame and then screw into the pinboard to hold it in place. It also came with hanging hardware. If your frame doesn’t come with clips you can order them here in whatever size you need.

I’ve just finished up repainting all the white walls in here so I can finally get this room makeover photographed. Cannot wait to show you the finished room!