Make it – Win it – Counting Down To Christmas Clipboard

This week on 24/7MOS we featured the fun Clipboard Christmas countdown that one of our 24/7 MOMS DeAnna Musgrove created for us and will giveaway to one of our 24/7 MOMS. (enter to win below)

We wanted you to also be able to create your own with these simple instructions.

Christmas Countdown – by Nicole White, featured in Scrapbook and Cards Today magazine

Looking for a unique project this coming holiday season? Try making this fabulous Advent Calendar – it’s easier than you think!

* Lightly sand the clipboard and then paint both sides with red paint.

* Using various patterned papers, cut strips approximately 7″ long. The actual width and length will vary depending on the size of your clipboard.

* From top to bottom accordingly, the width of the patterned paper strips should measure approximately 3″, 7/8″, 5/8″, 7″, 1″, 7/8″ and 1″. Adhere each of these strips one at a time.

* The top piece is the tricky part because you have to piece the patterned paper in under the clip. When you use a busy patterned paper, the piecing is not noticeable. Adhere this piece to the clipboard. A way to get around this part is to cut the paper to fit just under

the clip and leave the top with the red paint showing. Both look Great!

* Some clipboards have rounded edges, so you may want to round the corners of the very top and bottom piece to fit the clipboard.

* Using stamps, rub-ons or a combination, write the words “Christmas Countdown” across the top.

* Apply Mod-Podge to the whole clipboard. This will help keep the papers clean and your clipboard will last longer.

* To make the numbers, cut out 24 rectangles measuring 1″ x 1 1/2″, using a heavy cardboard (cereal box works great) or chipboard. Decorate with scraps of patterned paper and cardstock. Apply the numbers using rub-ons, stickers or stamps. Embellish with shaped brads if desired.

* Place a small piece of Velcro on the back of each number and on the 25 spots on the clipboard. I found some self-adhesive packs at the dollar store.

* Tie ribbons, fabric and maybe a metal charm to a piece of wire. Loop the wire around the clip and twist ends.

* If desired, add Magic Mesh along the bottom and ink the edges of the clipboard with black ink.

* When you start removing the numbers as you countdown the days, you may not like the look of the Velcro. You can make 24 more squares of the same size decorated with snowflake stamps, Christmas stickers or holiday themed die-cuts. Have fun!
* DeAnna’s note: The original example that I found the Scrapbook & Cards Today magazine, has the countdown going from 1 to 25. Our family likes to do it from 25 to 1, so we can see at a glance how many days until Christmas. The kids just LOVE taking their turn to take down a number. I’m sure your family will love it too!

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and DeAnna Musgrove are giving away one 25 day countdown.

Enter for your chance to win:
1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed along with your email address.

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber along with your email address.

US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on November 29th, 2009.