by Gail Kavanagh

Created on: December 11, 2011   Last Updated: December 17, 2011

The foam board that you can buy in craft and art shops can be used in many creative ways besides mounting artworks. Foam board, or foamcore as it is also known, is made by sandwiching a sheet of Styrofoam (trademark) between two sheets of card, which can be plain or laminated. This makes a sturdy backing for artworks.

But because it is easy to use pushpins and drawing pins on foam board, this material also makes a great bulletin board, which can easily be replaced for little cost when it starts looking the worse for wear. This inexpensive material can also be easily cut to any size or shape you desire with a sharp craft knife.

The board can be used just as it is for a temporary, easily replaceable bulletin board. It can be adhered to the wall with double sided adhesive tape, or ribbons or hangers can be added so it can hang on a hook. You can have fun deciding on the shape of your board if don't want a plain rectangle or square. Why not try a cute flower shape, or try cutting your board into large letters or numbers.

For a more decorative and longer lasting bulletin board, you can cover your foam board with fabric, and turn it into a stylish office or home accessory. Choose a sturdy cotton fabric if you are making your your first bulletin board. Fancier fabrics such as sating and silk can be tricky to work with, so choose something to start with that will not give you too much trouble. Choose a pattern that suits your decor, or if you are making the board as a gift, that will suit the recipient.

It is a great way to use up cute remnants of fabric that you haven't found a use for. Iron your fabric first so that it is perfectly smooth, using a steam iron to make sure that all wrinkles are removed.

Spray the front of the board with aerosol adhesive, and carefully lay your fabric over the board. There should be at least 2-3 inches of fabric to spare all round. Smooth the fabric flat over the board, pressing out any bubbles or wrinkles with your hand, then turn it over. Take the spare fabric and affix it to the back of the board with more spray adhesive, pins or tape. Since it won't show, you can do whatever you like.

You can 'quilt' the front of the board by pressing in decorative push pins over the surface, or pinning criss-crossed ribbons into place. You can slide memos and other items under the ribbons, or use the pins to hold various items in place. With this inexpensive material and method, you can have a decorative and useful bulletin board in every room in the house.

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