Creating a wooden clipboard with a leather strap is a fantastic project that combines woodworking skills with leatherworking. The result is a stylish and functional clipboard perfect for everyday use. Here’s how to create one:
Materials Needed:
- A wooden board (preferably hardwood, such as oak, maple, or walnut)
- Leather strap (about 18-24 inches long)
- Wood glue
- Screws or nails
- Sandpaper (various grits, from coarse to fine)
- Wood finish or varnish
- Leather dye (optional)
- Drill with appropriate bit
- Pencil
- Saw (circular or jigsaw)
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Leatherworking tools (scissors, hole puncher, etc.)
Step 1: Preparing the Wooden Board
Start by selecting a suitable piece of wood. The ideal size for a clipboard is typically around 9 inches by 12 inches, but you can adjust it based on personal preference.
Measure and Cut the Wood: Using a ruler and pencil, mark the desired dimensions for the clipboard on your wooden board. Cut the wood to size using a saw. You can use a circular saw for straight cuts or a jigsaw for more intricate cuts.
Sand the Edges and Surface: Sand down the rough edges of the wood and the surface to ensure it is smooth. Start with coarse sandpaper to remove any rough spots, and work your way to finer grit for a polished finish.
Step 2: Attaching the Clip
Position the Clip: Place the metal clipboard clip at the top of the wooden board, ensuring it is centered. Use a pencil to mark the screw holes on the wood through the clip’s mounting holes.
Drill Holes: Using a drill with a bit slightly smaller than the screws, carefully drill holes where you marked. This will prevent the wood from cracking when the screws are inserted.
Screw the Clip in Place: Attach the metal clipboard clip by screwing it into place, making sure it is secure and sits firmly on the wood.
Step 3: Adding the Leather Strap
Cut the Leather Strap: Cut a strip of leather to the desired length. The leather strip should be about 18 to 24 inches long and around 1 to 2 inches wide, depending on your preference.
Punch Holes in the Leather: At each end of the leather strip, use a hole punch to make holes for attaching it to the wood. Ensure the holes are large enough for screws or rivets to pass through.
Mark the Position for the Strap: On the top corners of the clipboard (opposite the clip), mark where you want to attach the leather strap. The strap should hang from each side of the clipboard, providing a convenient way to carry it.
Drill Holes in the Wood: Drill holes where you marked for the leather strap. The holes should be large enough to accommodate screws or rivets that will attach the leather.
Attach the Leather Strap: Position the leather strap through the holes and secure it using screws or rivets. Make sure the strap is positioned to allow the clipboard to hang comfortably.
Step 4: Finishing the Wood and Leather
Finish the Wood: To protect the wood and enhance its appearance, apply a wood finish or varnish. This will help prevent the wood from scratching and ensure longevity. Apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions, allowing it to dry completely.
Dye or Treat the Leather: If desired, you can dye the leather strap to match your personal style. Use leather dye or oil to treat the leather, which will protect it from wear and tear while giving it a rich, polished look.
Final Sanding: After the finish has dried, give the edges of the clipboard one last sanding with fine-grit sandpaper to ensure smoothness. You may also want to lightly sand the leather to soften its feel.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Finished Clipboard
Once all the pieces are dry and securely attached, your wooden clipboard with a leather strap is ready to use. This stylish and functional clipboard is perfect for carrying notes, sketches, or documents with you in style.
Conclusion
Building a wooden clipboard with a leather strap is a great project for anyone looking to combine woodworking and leatherworking skills. With a few simple materials and tools, you can create a unique and durable clipboard that will serve you well for years to come. Enjoy the process and take pride in your handcrafted creation!
For more woodworking ideas and projects, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.