Transform Your Bulletin Board Into a Piece of Art

Imagining a classroom without a bulletin board is like picturing a sky without stars. Dull, uninteresting, and lifeless. A well-designed bulletin board brings life, color, and vibrancy to a learning environment. It can ignite curiosity, spark conversations, and become a focal point of creativity and knowledge sharing. But how does one design a beautiful bulletin board?

Let's break it down:

1) Background

In designing a bulletin board, consider the process akin to painting on a neutral canvas. As an artist starts with a blank slate, I often find using 'burlap' or a similar neutral tone provides the perfect backdrop, allowing the information on the board to truly stand out. It's important to avoid a clash between the background and the printables. For a unified look, keep the background consistent across all boards, or stick to the same tonal family, like warm neutrals. I also love using Wallpaper (yes, you heard me) instead of traditional Bulletin Board paper. Not only do you have so many more fantastic options that can bring a lot of interest to your frames, they also have a peel and stick backing which eliminates creasing, curling, and the need for a thousand staples. Make sure to check out the 'Megan's Faves' tab for the Wallpaper options I highly recommend!

Check out the Megan's Faves section for the wallpapers shown above.

2) Borders

When it comes to borders, think of them as a picture frame. Just as a good frame enhances the picture within it without detracting from the image, so should your border enhance your content. I generally lean towards non-exact matches, picking up similar tones or shades from the printables. This approach creates a nuanced, layered effect that is both visually appealing and engaging. As a personal preferance, I keep them thin and understated, as opposed to layered and clunky. Or, if you're feeling up to it, I recommend adding a golden frame which adds a touch of elegance. I purchased the 16.4 x 1.57 inch option, but you can choose the width best suited for your size frame!

Check out the Megan's Faves sections for the borders shown above.

3) Organizing Content

Now let's talk about scale. Playing around with the proportion can add a dynamic touch to your bulletin board. A proven method of achieving this is by choosing a focal point and accentuating it with smaller, complementary pieces.

One technique that works wonders is the 'rule of thirds', borrowed from photography and art. This rule, which splits any given space into three equal parts both horizontally and vertically, is a powerful tool for creating balance, scale, and proportion in a design. By placing objects at the intersection points of these lines, you guide the eye smoothly through the space. However, don't forget to leave enough white space for the eye to rest. 

Now let's plan your content with this rule in mind!

Designing a beautiful bulletin board is a process of experimentation and creativity. It's about creating a visual narrative that reflects the spirit of the classroom, promotes interaction, serves its intended purpose, and adds a touch of beauty to your space.

All of the printabes used on this Bulletin Board can be found in my Boho Collection.