DIY craft project ~ making a funky patchwork frame

This week, I’ve been having fun upcycling some frames to make them look prettier and more summery. I began with this first project to funk up a white-board frame, so that I have a place to write my ‘notes-to-self’ in my workshop. I bought these pretty patterned washi-tapes, fabric tapes and masking tape strips online and didn’t really know what I wanted to make with them, so when I saw this blank, plasticy whiteboard frame, I knew I could jazz it up with a patchwork pattern.

You will need: A whiteboard with pen and holder (or photo frame if you prefer), selection of washi-tape or sticky fabric tape or coloured masking tape (try craft stores such as Wholeport or even Ebay), scissors.

1. I got this whiteboard from a discount pound store – it’s a good idea to check out places like this for cheap things to upcycle! The first step was to dismantle it – the whiteboard slipped out just like a picture in a photo frame and if you’re using a picture frame, just take out the backing and glass.
2. Cut a selection of washi-tape or coloured masking tape to size, making sure that the lengths will wrap around from the back of the frame, around the frame and around to the back again.
   Stick the tape onto the frame in a ‘patchwork’ effect, piece by piece, trying not to place the same patterns or colours together.
3. When you reach a corner, use a sticky fabric-tape, which can be stretched a little to cover the corner neatly.
4. When you have covered the entire frame, slip the whiteboard or glass/photo-insert back into the frame and clip on the whiteboard pen and holder.

And there you have it – a pretty decorated frame that is unique! Although it took a little while, it was quite a relaxing process – just me, sat down, quietly crafting and listening to music. I’m very proud of the results and will be adding washi tape to many more frames in the future! Let me know if you give it a go and tell me how you get on – leave me a comment below or tweet me a photo @CassiefairyTutu.