Fabulous, Fantastic, and Frugal Friday - Gift No. 4 - Menu Board

How many of us plan a menu for the week, shop for the menu, and then forget what we were planning to cook by the time Wednesday rolls around?

I'm guilty of that but those big chalkboards have no place in most smaller kitchens. When I spied an idea that offered a solution I was determined to have my version of it.

Confession: I totally ripped the idea off from Southern Living at Home.

If you want to see the real deal go here:
http://mag1.olivesoftware.com/ActiveMagazine/welcome/STLM/SouthernLivingatHome.asp
Look on page 17.

The one we'll be making looks completely different but the idea is the same.


Supplies

• black chalkboard paint
• wood plaque or a board cut to size of your choosing
  
• ribbon
  
• plate stand
• chalk
• drill and drill bit that is large enough to make a hole to push ribbon through
  

First, grab your plaque/board. They are pretty inexpensive. I got mine for a dollar and some change.


Decide where you want the ribbon. I put the holes for my ribbon 2" from the side and 1.5" from the top. I marked it...

and drilled the holes so it would be perfectly even.


Make sure to sand the holes well, front and back.


Next, paint your plaque with chalkboard paint. I used black because it was under the sink and I'm way to lazy to get up and go to the store after all that turkey. ;) It does come in other colors, though.


Let it dry. Meanwhile, enjoy this homemade red velvet delight. MMMM!


Then grab your ribbons. Cut them the length of the space between the holes times three and allow for the tails on each end. Why you ask?
Because you need to lace the board like this...


You may want to cut a "v" shaped notch or slanted ends to make them pretty.


Little tip - If you take the flame of a lighter and run it across the cut ends it won't fray. Most ribbon is polyester so the heat melts and seals the threads.

Cut as many different ribbons as you like and include them in the gift bag. That's what I love about this gift! It's awesome for those who like to decorate for the seasons...





Now, grab that plate stand.
You can rock it out with a snazzy one like this...


or go a bit more frugal by picking up one at the one dollar store...


or give it some pop with a color like this...


Include some chalk, small or large...


and give it to someone absent minded, like me.
They'll appreciate it!

BTW, if you don't like chalk use a small dry erase board instead. If you want, hang it on the wall by adding hanging hardware.
How about some different ribbon for a teen's room?
Or... use magnetic paint and include a magnet. Then you have a place to keep your recipe card tidy while you cook.


Make it yours or theirs. ;)

Happy Gift Giving!