NOTE HOLDER

Materials needed:

1x6 x approx. 10", Clothespin, Stain, Black paint, Paint for lettering, Glue, Sandpaper, Clean-up media for paint, Newspaper or drop cloth

Equipment needed:

Band saw or scroll saw, ½" or ¾" paint brush, Artist’s brush or lettering brush

This project is a very simple and inexpensive note holder. It does, however, require the use of a band saw or scroll saw. For older boys, cutting the stock on the saw to the desired shape can, and should, be a part of the project that they perform. A boy should be provided protective eyewear and be properly instructed about safety measures for the particular saw being used. With that and some adult supervision, he can embark on what to most boys is an absolute thrill. He will actually be fabricating something from scratch on his own.

This is also an excellent project for smaller boys because of its simplicity, though, from a standpoint of safety, the pieces may need to be precut for them.

Cut the shape of the hammer from 1x6 stock. (Sketch the hammer on cardboard and cut out the template for retracing the shape to the wood. Be sure to have the boys do this, as it is an excellent learning experience in pattern transferring. The edges of the hammer shape may require light sanding. The hammer shape is then stained, painted, lettered, or all of the above, depending upon the ages and capabilities of the boys. The hammer’s head can be lettered with something like "John’s To Do List." Finally, the clothespin can be glued to the handle. If you decide to stain the hammer you will want to stain the clothespin at the same time.

To the back of the hammer either fasten a small eyelet with brads (for hanging on the wall), or glue two pieces of magnetic strip (for hanging on the refrigerator).