Keeping track of daily reminders can be a challenge, especially when you're rushing out the door. While some people rely on tech-savvy reminder apps, others (like myself) might resort to the tried-and-true method of scribbling notes on sticky pads and taping them to the front door. Whether it’s a reminder to "take out the bins" or "don't forget the PE kit," these makeshift solutions often do the trick. However, they can be unsightly and cluttered. If you've ever thought, "There has to be a better way to do this," you're not alone. Fortunately, I've come up with a creative, functional solution that not only organizes your reminders but also adds a touch of decor to your hallway. With a little bit of creativity and some trusty Sugru, you can upcycle an old picture frame into a beautiful and practical hallway memo board. Here's how!

Why a Hallway Memo Board?

A hallway memo board is not just a practical addition to your home; it’s also a stylish one. This DIY project is perfect for those picture frames that have seen better days—maybe they're a bit scratched or you've lost the glass. Instead of letting those frames gather dust, why not give them new life? With this project, you'll create a reusable whiteboard that’s perfect for jotting down reminders, and you'll add extra functionality with hooks and a pen holder.

Materials You'll Need

Before you get started, gather the following materials:

1- An old picture frame (size of your choice)
2- White card or paper (to fit the frame)
3- Sugru (a versatile moldable glue)
4- A thin paintbrush, pencil, or toothpick (for smoothing)
5- Scissors (for cutting the paper)
6- Optional: wooden pegs (for additional hanging space)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Whiteboard

First, we'll create the whiteboard. Start by cutting a piece of white card or paper to fit the size of your picture frame. This will serve as the background for your memo board. Once cut, place it inside the frame as you would a photo. The glass from the picture frame will act as the wipeable surface, making it easy to jot down and erase notes.

Step 2: Create a Pen Holder

Next, you'll want to ensure that a pen is always within reach. To do this, we'll create a pen holder on the side of the frame using Sugru. Roll out a small piece of Sugru into a long sausage shape, approximately 6-7mm thick and about 10cm long. Bring the ends together to form a loop.

Before attaching the loop to the frame, make sure your whiteboard marker fits through it. If needed, carefully stretch the loop to adjust the size. Once you're satisfied with the size, press the tail ends of the loop firmly into the back of the frame, positioning the loop along the side of the frame. This will serve as your pen holder.

Step 3: Smooth and Secure the Pen Holder

To ensure the pen holder is secure and looks neat, use a thin, smooth object like a paintbrush, pencil, or toothpick to smooth out the inside of the loop and press it firmly against the frame. Double-check that your pen fits comfortably and make any necessary adjustments. This step is crucial to ensure that the pen holder is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Step 4: Create Hooks for Keys and Other Items

Now, let's add some hooks for keys, lanyards, or any other small items you need to grab as you head out the door. The Sugru Blog offers several tutorials on how to create different types of hooks, but for this project, we'll create a simple yet effective "rhino hook" style.

Start by rolling a small piece of Sugru into a thick sausage shape. Press one end of the sausage into the back of the frame, near the bottom edge. Then, pull the other end around to the front of the frame and curve it upwards to form a hook. To ensure the hook is secure, press it into the bottom edge of the frame. Repeat this process until you have the desired number of hooks. You can also add a wooden peg to hang items like tickets or receipts.

Step 5: Allow Sugru to Cure

Once you've created your pen holder and hooks, it's time to let the Sugru cure. This process takes about 24-48 hours, so be patient. During this time, you may need to prop up the hooks and loops to ensure they dry in the correct shape. However, in most cases, carefully positioning the frame on a flat surface should do the trick.

The Finished Product

And there you have it—a stylish, functional hallway memo board that's perfect for keeping track of your daily tasks and reminders. This upcycled picture frame project not only breathes new life into an old frame but also helps keep your hallway organized and clutter-free. Plus, it's fully customizable to fit your personal style and needs. Whether you’re writing down reminders, hanging keys, or displaying important notes, this memo board is sure to become an essential part of your daily routine.

Final Thoughts

Creating a DIY hallway memo board is a simple yet rewarding project that combines creativity with practicality. It’s a great way to upcycle old picture frames and turn them into something useful. If you’re looking for a fun weekend project that will help you stay organized throughout the year, give this a try. And if you do, be sure to share your results—I'd love to see how your memo board turns out!

With this easy tutorial, you’ll no longer need to rely on random sticky notes taped to your door. Instead, you’ll have a chic and functional board that adds a touch of elegance to your hallway while helping you stay on top of your tasks. So grab an old picture frame, some Sugru, and get crafting!

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