Repaint and recover a thrift store corkboard, then embellish it for a stunning holiday display. Follow this step-by-step guide from Joanne Palmisano, author of Salvage Secrets (W.W. Norton, 2011).
Sand the wooden frame smooth and clean it. Apply one coat of red paint and let dry. Add a second coat and allow it to dry completely.
Use the cork as a template to cut burlap to fit inside the frame. Protect the frame with newspaper or painter's tape. Spray adhesive on the cork, press burlap on top, and smooth with your hands.
Photo: Susan Teare
Cut green ribbon to fit exactly around the burlap edge, touching the wooden frame. Angle each piece at 45 degrees for seamless corners. Hot-glue the ribbon to the burlap and board underneath.
Position the 'Happy Holidays' wooden blocks centered below the ribbon—use a measuring tape for precision (center on the first 'P' and between the 'I' and 'D'). Glue blocks to the burlap.
Attach D-hooks to the frame back if needed. Loop twine through the hooks several times for durability. Use thumbtacks to hang greeting cards.
Joanne Palmisano is the author of Salvage Secrets (W.W. Norton, September 2011). Visit her blog, also called Salvage Secrets.
