Creating a wooden clipboard with a leather strap is a rewarding project that combines woodworking and leatherworking. It results in a stylish, functional item that can be used for personal or gift purposes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make one:
Materials Needed:
- Wooden Board: Choose a hardwood like oak, walnut, or maple for durability and aesthetic appeal. The size should be slightly larger than a standard letter-sized sheet of paper (8.5″ x 11″).
- Leather Strap: A piece of leather (at least 1″ wide and 12″ long) for the strap.
- Clipboard Mechanism: A metal clip, preferably one with a spring-loaded mechanism.
- Wood Glue: For securing components.
- Wood Finish: Your choice of stain, oil, or varnish for finishing.
- Screws: To attach the clip to the wood.
- Sandpaper: For smoothing the edges and surface.
- Drill: For making holes in the wood and leather.
- Ruler and Pencil: For precise measurements.
Tools Needed:
- Miter saw or hand saw
- Drill with various bits
- Leather hole punch (for strap)
- Screwdriver
- Sanding block or power sander
- Measuring tape or caliper
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wooden Board
Start by deciding the dimensions of your clipboard. A standard size would be 9″ x 12″, but feel free to adjust this according to your preference.
- Measure the dimensions on your wooden board.
- Use a miter saw or hand saw to cut the wood to the desired size. If you want rounded corners, use a jigsaw or round-over bit on your router.
- Sand the edges to ensure smoothness and safety.
Step 2: Sand the Wooden Surface
Once your board is cut to size, you’ll need to smooth the surface.
- Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough patches.
- Gradually move to finer grit sandpaper (up to 220 grit) for a smoother finish.
- Make sure to sand the edges, corners, and the surface thoroughly to avoid splinters.
Step 3: Stain or Finish the Wood
Before attaching the clip and leather strap, finish the wood to enhance its appearance and provide protection.
- Apply a wood stain if desired to add color to your clipboard. Follow the stain’s instructions for application and drying.
- Once the stain is dry, apply a clear wood finish such as polyurethane or a wax finish to protect the wood.
Step 4: Attach the Metal Clipboard Clip
The clip holds the paper in place, so it’s important to attach it securely.
- Measure the position for the clip, generally centered at the top of the clipboard.
- Mark the spots where you’ll drill holes for screws to attach the clip.
- Drill pilot holes to ensure the screws go in straight.
- Screw the metal clipboard clip into place. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could crack the wood.
Step 5: Prepare and Attach the Leather Strap
The leather strap adds an elegant, functional touch, allowing you to carry the clipboard or hang it up.
Cut a piece of leather to the desired length. A 12” strap should be sufficient for most clipboards.
Use a leather hole punch to make two holes at each end of the strap.
Drill corresponding holes at the top of the clipboard where you will attach the leather strap. Position the holes on either side of the clipboard’s top corners.
Pass the leather strap through the drilled holes on the clipboard and secure it using rivets, screws, or a simple knot if using thinner leather.
- Optional: If you prefer a more refined finish, you can stitch the leather ends together or use rivets for a more industrial look.
Step 6: Final Sanding and Touch-Up
Once all the components are attached, give the entire clipboard a final once-over.
- Sand any rough areas where the leather meets the wood or where there might be uneven finishes.
- Clean the clipboard of any dust, especially from the leather.
- Touch up the wood finish as needed to ensure all areas are well-protected.
Step 7: Use Your Wooden Clipboard
Your wooden clipboard with a leather strap is now ready to use! It’s perfect for carrying papers, writing notes on the go, or even hanging it as a decorative piece.
This project offers a great way to merge woodworking with leatherworking. The result is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing, making it an ideal gift or addition to your workspace.
For those interested in expanding their woodworking skills further, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.