Inspirational Boards

I've been seeing inspirational boards popping up in different places. Sometimes they are referred to as "mood boards." They can be used for nearly anything. They are easy to make and can be put together in an hour or two, and did I mention how much fun they are to make?

They are great for inspiration! I put my favorite quote and Bible verse on mine. I also made a collage of pictures, which is at the center of my board. My dance room reminds me of the need to exercise. My open Bible is a reminder of where I need to turn when I'm struggling. My diary is a reminder to write down my feelings rather than running to food. My picnic table and the outdoor photos remind me that sometimes I simply need some solitude and quiet time to think or pray by the pond, or that I just need to get outside away from food. The note my Weight Watchers leader, Melissa, gave me is a reminder that I have an entire support group pulling for me. I also put beach stuff on mine, because I'm looking forward to a trip to the beach at Nantucket when I reach my goal weight. I love pretty dresses and sandals, so I clipped pictures and used them to envision how it will feel to buy nice stuff in small sizes and feel good about wearing them.

 These boards will bring a splash of color into any room in the house. The fabric is stapled on, so you can easily change it if you want an instant new look. A lot of people already have cork boards in their homes to use as message centers. Why not give yours a new look?

If you don't already have one, all you need is a cork board with a wood frame. These can be purchased at most stores and are not expensive. They come in various sizes. You will need about a yard of fabric, some low loft batting, and a staple gun. Cut the fabric and batting about an inch larger on all four sides than your board. Stretch the fabric and batting over the back and staple in place, (make sure you have the fabric and batting cut the same size so you are stapling both of them onto the frame) then have fun decorating it with anything you want.

These can be used as photo boards, just plain memo boards, or mood boards. Designers often use them to try out decorating and accessory themes to see how different objects and colors match up.

Being a sewer and quilter, I have quite a huge stash of fabric waiting to be used and had plenty to choose from. I ended up making two boards; one for weight loss inspiration and one for writing inspiration. I keep the writing one by my desk and the weight loss one in my bedroom by my nightstand. I like the reminder of being on this journey to better health when I wake up and before I go to bed.

If you want something new to brighten your home, inspire you on your weight loss or other journey, why not make an inspiration board? Be creative. Make it uniquely yours. Use whatever motivates you to become a stronger and healthier person. Feel free to share pictures of your board. I would love to see it!