The Beauty of Bulletin Boards

So you walk into an office, church or school and see a bulletin board. Is it full of loose papers hanging every which way? Or is it neat with an inspiring message? Do you want to look away with boredom or do you walk towards it to inquire more?

Bulletin boards are supposed to be simple and serve a purpose. Any group or organization can create an effective bulletin board with a minimum amount of effort. It's best to designate one person to be in charge of what goes onto the board to maintain conformity and organization.

Here are a few guidelines for designing bulletin boards.

Determine what purpose you want to use the bulletin board for. It can deliver updated materials, publications, and information to clients, staff or students. It may be used to remind people of upcoming events and schedules. When done right, these boards can decorate a lobby, waiting area, hallway or classroom. Some people even use bulletin boards in their homes instead of purchasing artwork!

Placement of a bulletin board is important. Rectangular-shaped displays are more pleasing to the eye than square-shapes. Place a board on a wall in the same fashion as a piece of framed art - eye level. The board should be in a room in a position that can be viewed from different vantage points. Pick a complimentary color from the room for the background. This will make it seem like a part of the room rather than something obtrusive.

I prefer to use fabric for background. It doesn't fade, hides pin and staple holes, and looks very classy. Wallpaper is great too! Check with local wallpaper stores, many give away their old samples and leftover pieces. Border designs are available in themes that may compliment and enhance the display but be careful to not make the board too busy.