How To Make a Design Wall

I just made a design wall for my sewing space, and I love it!

A design wall is a new concept to me.  After seeing these over and over in the online sewing/quilting world, I decided I had to make my own.  They are super helpful for laying out fabric while designing or assembling sewing projects.  It’s basically made with flannel.  Cotton fabric sticks to flannel – who knew?!

I’ve seen some pretty large design walls, which would be nice, but my space won’t really accommodate a huge one.  Since it’s in my sewing room/dining room, I want it to be removable. You know, in case I ever decide to actually use this room as a formal dining room (ha!).  I also wanted to be able to add or remove panels at will, so I decided to use foam core boards.  They seem perfect for size and flexibility.

Here’s how to make a design wall:

1. Get some white flannel.  I scored some at my neighbor’s yard sale.  Seriously, how perfect was it to find 3 bundles of white flannel next door for $1?

2. Get some foam core board, which is available at tons of stores.  I got three sheets at Hobby Lobby.  Each panel measures 40-in by 32-in.

3. Get some hanging hardware.  I went with Command Damage-Free picture clips, since I wanted the removable option.  Get two packages of these clips.

4. Cut your flannel into large pieces, wrap around the foam core board, then tape to the back.  I used blue painters tape.  I wondered if it would hold up well, and after being installed for a month or so, it’s held up nicely.

5. Make as many panels as you wish, and attach to the wall with the picture clips, following the package directions.  I used four of the Command picture clips for each panel: two on top and two on bottom.  The foam core board slides into the clips perfectly, with a snug and secure fit.  The clips hold the foam core board on the wall nicely, since the panels are so light.

Design wall panels are up!  I threw a couple of my fabric scraps on it, and yes, it works!