Hello, A Pumpkin & a Princess readers! I’m Ginger, and I blog at Ginger Snap Crafts. I’m delighted to be visiting Crystal’s space while she’s away. I met Crystal when I first started blogging and quickly became a fan—she’s so talented and inspiring. Her projects and recipes are wonderful, and her washi tape crafts encouraged me to pick up some washi tape of my own. Today I’m excited to share a simple, fun project: washi tape checkerboard clipboards.
For this project you’ll need a clipboard, a selection of washi tape (I found mine at Target), an X-ACTO knife and a pair of scissors. These basic supplies make the project quick and approachable, and the results are colorful, practical, and customizable.
Begin by preparing your workspace and gathering tapes with contrasting colors or patterns. A bold contrast helps the checkerboard pattern stand out, but you can also use tonal variations for a more subtle look.
I started at the bottom edge of the clipboard and applied horizontal strips of washi tape all the way to the top. Laying the horizontal strips first makes it easier to keep consistent spacing. I used a single color for the horizontal rows so the background remains uniform. Once the horizontal strips were in place, I applied vertical strips in a contrasting color. Use the intersecting lines to form even squares.
To make neat squares, use an X-ACTO knife to score small lines where the tapes overlap. The underlying tape serves as a guide so your cuts stay even. Cut carefully and steadily—washi tape is forgiving, but a precise cut creates crisp edges that make the checkerboard design look professional.
After scoring the lines, remove the small square pieces you don’t need. Continue this process across the clipboard until the entire surface forms a checkerboard pattern. The repetitive motion is relaxing, and the visual payoff is delightful.
These clipboards make wonderful teacher gifts, especially when made using school colors. They’re also great as personalized gifts for students, office coworkers, or craft-loving friends. You can adapt the size of the squares depending on the width of the tape you use or your aesthetic preference—smaller squares create a more intricate look, while larger squares make a bold statement.
If you’d like to add a finishing touch, consider sealing the tape edges with a clear, matte Mod Podge or a protective spray to increase durability. This step is optional—washi tape generally adheres well—but sealing can help the clipboard withstand heavier use and keep edges from lifting over time.
Thanks to Crystal for hosting me here—this has been so much fun! If you enjoy simple, cute, and easy crafts, I hope you’ll visit Ginger Snap Crafts sometime. On my blog I share a variety of projects, from gift baskets and photo pendants to decorative blocks and seasonal wreaths. I also host a weekly link party on Wednesdays where readers share their own crafts; it’s a great place to find inspiration and community projects.
Happy crafting! I’d love to see the colors and patterns you choose for your checkerboard clipboards—feel free to try different combinations and make the design your own.