Paper Roll Message Board

I needed some sort of message board in our kitchen, so borrowed this idea from restaurant images I’ve seen lately. I wanted a fun solution that would allow for friends to draw at parties, for us to leave messages for each other, and something that wouldn’t just look ordinary. Enter, this paper roll message board! I started by staining and then finishing each of the wood pieces with grey paint to create a whitewashed look. This is completely optional, but it fits well with our style. Supplies:

• Wood curtain rod set (I used a wood dowel, finials and brackets {all available at Lowe’s} purely because this wall is skinny and I had a very specific look in mind.)
• Paper roll (Kraft paper, butcher paper and contractor paper will all work depending on how much space you have. I used a 28″ contractor paper roll from Lowe’s)
• Drill
• Level
• Drywall anchors
• Markers
• Marker holder (mine is a toothbrush holder from Target) and medium Command strips for hanging
• Optional – Stain, gray paint, glaze

I used Rustoleum Dark Walnut stain, and left it on for about 10 minutes before wiping it off (this is a similar one here).

Once the stain was dry, I mixed a little Valspar Stone Mason Gray, Valspar Antiquing Glaze and a lot of water to make a wash. (I didn’t measure, this doesn’t need to be precise) I painted the wash over one piece at a time, wiping most of it off after about a minute.

You can see the difference between the original stained piece and the whitewashed one. I think it adds a lot of character.

Allow this to dry thoroughly before hanging. If you are using a dowel instead of a rod set, you’ll need to drill a hole in each end of the dowel so you can insert the finials. Also, this can probably go unsaid, but make sure to use wall anchors when installing…the paper rolls are pretty heavy. Using a level and drill, install the brackets, allowing space in between for the paper roll. Screw on one finial, add the paper roll to the rod, and finish with the second finial. Place the rod in the brackets.

Use Command strips to attach your marker holder to the wall. If you haven’t already used them, I highly recommend them for hanging all sorts of items.

FAQs for Making a Paper Roll Message Board:

Q1: What materials do I need to make a Paper Roll Message Board?
A1: To create a Paper Roll Message Board, you’ll need a large roll of kraft or butcher paper, a frame or mounting board to hold the paper, adhesive strips or thumbtacks, and markers or pens for writing messages. Optional materials include washi tape, scissors, or decorative elements to personalize your board.

Q2: How do I mount the paper roll to create a message board?
A2: Mounting the paper roll can be done by attaching it to a wall using adhesive hooks, a curtain rod, or a tension rod. You can also secure it to a backing board or frame with thumbtacks or pushpins. Ensure the roll is placed at a comfortable height for easy access.

Q3: How do I keep the paper from unrolling?
A3: To prevent the paper from unrolling, secure the bottom of the paper with a decorative clip or a weighted object (like a stone or small bag) to keep it in place. You can also use small clips at the top to control the roll as you pull more paper down.

Q4: Can I customise the look of my Paper Roll Message Board?
A4: Absolutely! You can personalise your message board by using decorative washi tape along the edges, painting or stenciling designs on the paper, or adding fun accessories like magnets or paper clips. The possibilities for customisation are endless!

Q5: How can I change the messages on the Paper Roll Message Board?
A5: The paper roll allows you to easily change the messages by simply writing or drawing over the old messages with new ones. You can erase ink or marker (if using dry-erase markers) or tear off the top layer of paper to start fresh. This makes it a flexible and reusable option for ongoing notes.

Q6: What kind of paper should I use for a Paper Roll Message Board?
A6: The best type of paper to use is kraft paper or butcher paper, which is sturdy enough to write on and won’t tear easily. You can also use white paper or any large-format paper rolls that suit your decor or message board needs. Consider the weight of the paper if you’re using markers, pens, or other writing tools.

Q7: Can I use a Paper Roll Message Board for multiple purposes?
A7: Yes! A Paper Roll Message Board can serve various functions. It can be used for notes, shopping lists, family reminders, event calendars, or even as a creative outlet for doodling or brainstorming. It’s perfect for homes, offices, classrooms, and cafes.

Q8: How do I make the message board more interactive?
A8: To make your Paper Roll Message Board more interactive, you can create designated spaces for daily challenges, goals, or fun messages. You can also encourage others to write on it by keeping markers, pens, or sticky notes nearby for easy interaction.

Q9: How do I clean the Paper Roll Message Board if it gets dirty?
A9: If the paper gets dirty, you can either replace the section with fresh paper or carefully clean the marks with an eraser if you’re using dry-erase markers. For permanent ink or ink that won’t come off, you may need to replace the paper entirely.

Q10: How do I store extra paper when I’m not using the message board?
A10: If you have extra paper rolls, store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. You can keep them rolled up and secured with a rubber band or clip, or store them in a large box or container to prevent them from unrolling.