There are message boards of every size, shape, color and material, but here are a few ideas you can make yourself— probably out of materials you have around the house.
Several years ago, my husband and I did a modest remodel of our kitchen. We took down the over-the-island cabinets and found another home for them; I love recycling! Next was the kitchen island itself; made of solid oak, it was hard for me to simply put its parts into the dumpster. I did have to retrieve some as my handy hubby was quick to toss them. I made a message board from one of the doors by simply painting the inside panel with chalkboard paint— that was the simplest thing ever. As a postscript, we have used nearly every piece of that oak island for a variety of projects, including a sample door for paint colors to my clients what painted oak might look like; it has been a huge success.
You could use this idea on a cabinet door that is currently in your kitchen, as long as it is within easy reach and convenient to change as needed. Another idea would be to paint a window pane or two on a window that is facing a less than attractive view, with chalkboard paint, again as long as it was within easy reach.
My next idea is to use an old picture frame with glass. I gave one away recently, then I had this idea; it figures! I went to Goodwill and spent $4.99 on a frame measuring 16X20 inches. Next I painted the frame, I used black as it is the easiest to use in my kitchen. I put the glass on a piece of grid paper and wrote out Santa’s List, Naughty and Nice and then some names (fictitious of course). I used dry erase pens, but you could use any kind of marker that will stick to glass and easily wipe off. Rubbing alcohol works well to remove markers.
This message board is further made interesting by placing some left over Anagluypta or embossed wallpaper, to give the board some texture. You could use any type of wallpaper, wrapping paper, or rice paper that you might have on hand. Of course, you could find a backing paper that suite the room in which you wish to use your message board, e.g., children’s bedroom, playroom, or home office. My suggestion would be to use a pale-colored design to avoid competing with your messages. Any color will work as long as it is pale. You can find great paper choices at stationary stores, art stores and of course on line.
Once you have completed your board, find an appropriate place to hang or lean it up against a wall. The nice thing about using a glass surface is that it is easily changed with the season, or just a fun place to doodle for small children while you are busy in your kitchen or office.
Santa's List
Chalk Painted Cabinet Door