My very first music classroom in Kansas City, MO had no windows. It was an overwhelming moment when I saw it. Bulletin boards lined the walls... so many bulletin boards. Creating cheap classroom decor quickly became important. Budget money went to instruments, sheet music and sound equipment not classroom decor. That's what led to wavy borders and beyond.
DIY Bulletin Board Border Ideas
Copy paper was abundant so cutting it into strips and stapling it to the board made a simple solid color border. The change from traditional wavy edges was welcome and then things got more creative:
- Mix up the colors of paper
- Cut copy paper strips into different lengths and staple sideways to create a casual staggered look
- Use decorative paper at the craft store instead
- Use cardstock
- Laminate the borders and start a reusable border stockpile
- Look around the classroom or dollar store for unexpected items that could become a border. Be open to new and different ideas.
Download the free border pdf
If you'd like to try out the border the download is available. There are crop lines included which helps line up the first cuts on the paper cutting board. There are 5 options so you have color choices. If you like to involve students in the decorating process or are working on cutting and coloring skills, the black and white version is perfect to cut and color.
I'm just getting started on Teachers Pay Teachers so there will be more classroom decor coming. If you are a music teacher or a piano teacher, there will be resources for you to use. Feel free to message me if you have questions or an idea for a product you'd like to see.
