{Just for Kids} Command Center

Hello Friends!

Remember back when I auditioned for the So You Think You’re Crafty Competition?  Well, I am finally sharing how I created the Command Center from the audition.  And…You can still VOTE this week!  Link is at the bottom of this post.

Oh, I still love it and it is working out great for the boys!  It has been awesome having a place for all of their stuff.

When I was first trying to come up with a back to school theme project for my audition, I knew I wanted to create something functional.  Not just a craft for the sake of crafting.  What we really needed for back to school was a Command Center…a place to put all their stuff when they come home from their various activities.  A place where they can see where items belong and everything is easily accessible for them.

First, I made a list of what we needed in the space to make it functional for our needs: Label with initial, hook for backpack/jacket, basket for shoes, bench to sit on while putting shoes on, in/out boxes, bulletin boards or a way to display artwork and other special mementos/reminders.

Then I shopped my house to see what I already had on hand.   The only item missing is the bench.  I had thought we could use one we already own, but never use…Unfortunately it was two inches too short, so no bench…yet.

Chalkboard letters:

If you have been with OneKriegerChick for long, you know I am a sucker for monograms.  I found these letters at Hobby Lobby and painted them with Chalkboard paint.  Easy peasy!

Stenciled bulletin boards:

I purchased these fun frames at Hobby Lobby awhile back {on sale 50% off} and spray painted them Aqua.

This cork roll was on sale at Target and I knew I would find a use for it…It worked perfectly for this!  Just use the back of the frame as your guide, trace onto the cork roll with a pen or marker and cut out.  I advise cutting a little smaller than the backing.  Then attach to the backing with hot glue and you are ready to stencil!

I used my Art Philosophy Cricut Cartridge from Close to My Heart to cut out this modern alphabet and number set for my stencil.  It measures 12 x 12, but you could cut it out to the size you need.  I used scrap cardstock for its sturdiness.

Then I attached the stencil to the cork using painters tape and carefully stenciled with cream acrylic paint in between the pattern.  Click {Here} for my easy stencil method.  I moved the tape as needed to fill in all the spaces.

Once it is dry, insert it into the frame and enjoy!  If you want some fun little push pins like these, simply hot glue colored pom poms to flat metal tacks.  See {Here}.  Make sure to use uncoated tacks or the heat will peel the coating right off…learn from my goofs…oops!

 Check out how I used Cereal boxes to create In/Out Boxes!  Click {HERE}

As Always,

 

Sharing with…Tatertots and Jello, Frugal Crafty Home