I am super excited about my latest project, a DIY Felt Story Board. I’m even more excited that Kayden seems to love it too! We were playing with it today and she was so proud, “Mommy look at my picture! Look at my picture!” Needless to say, Mommy was proud too. =) Plus, that might be the longest sentence she’s put together so far, bonus!
There are lots of ways to make a felt board, also called a flannel board. I wanted ours to be durable (cardboard was out), yet lightweight and easy to move around (nix the wood board idea). I settled on an 18″x24″ artist canvas that I picked up at Hobby Lobby. It was $11.99 regular price but of course I had my handy 40% off coupon so I got it for less than $8 with tax. Then I picked up a bunch of different colored felt sheets for $0.25 each to make pieces to play with.
I browsed the flannel material but bought 2/3 yards of fleece material since it was on sale. (I read online felt or fleece works well as the base.) I got a couple colors with the idea that I might try covering a sturdy piece of cardboard and attach to my primary board with Velcro so I can change the background color. Haven’t tried it yet, but I think it will work.
It’s very simple to make, and a lot of fun to play with.
I made some random pieces to play with at first, but I think I will try to start making an actual set of more detailed and embellished pieces so we can use them for storytime. (Squeal!!) I know…I might be more excited about this than my daughter. LOL
Before I made our big board I ordered a “travel board” that’s smaller, and folds up into a little case. I also got a set of pieces with a bear that you can dress depending on the weather. It hasn’t arrived yet but I think Kayden will really like that too! She has this little magnetic Lalaloopsy kit where she can dress the girls and she loves it but the pieces are getting worn and they are awful small so this should be a nice, safe and fun alternative. Yay!
Here are a few other sites for inspiration:
Storytime Katie - Lots of ideas for felt sets!
Felt Board Printables - Lots of printables for your board kits
Mommy Gaga – She uses a foam core board
What is your favorite way to use a felt/flannel board?
This is so cool! I’ve gotta try it when Henry gets a little bigger. You are so crafty. Love the bunny.
I’m not sure who loves this thing more, me or Kayden! Seriously, watching her play with it and hearing her shout (every time) “Look at my picture!” makes me sooooo happy!I just ordered a boatload of different colored felt sheets and have started to design a set for an Easter book, I can’t wait! =) I also just printed photos of our family, laminated them and added a velcro dot to the back. Those are pretty fun too!