MAGNETIC MAKEUP BOARD HOW-TO

A couple of weeks ago I posted a photo tour of my teeny, tiny bathroom to show some ideas I had for maximizing small spaces when you have a lot of beauty products.  A few people were interested in the step-by-step instructions for the magnetic makeup board, so here it is as promised!

I first discovered this one on Pinterest last year...

So here's the dealio. You'll need something magnetic - like a piece of sheet metal. (I've even seen these boards made with cookie sheets!)  You can find sheet metal at most home improvement stores like Lowe's or Home Depot.  Buy it in a size that will fit in a standard photo frame, or have it trimmed down to size.  

Then you'll want to purchase a photo frame.  Try to find one that already has hooks on the back for hanging. You could even get an unfinished wooden frame and give it that "antique" look (like the one above) using paint. I went the easy route and just used a plain black plastic frame.

Also, you'll need something to cover the metal.  I improvised and used a damask pattern gift wrap from Michael's.  Probably not the greatest idea because it can tear so easily, so I definitely suggest something more durable like fabric.  

And finally, get yourself some small heavy duty magnets.

Basically you'll just want to cover the entire metal sheet with a large piece of fabric.  Stretching the material over the front of the metal, pull the corners tightly over the back and hot glue them down. (I used tape since I went with gift wrap.)  Give the glue a couple seconds to dry and then pop the covered piece of metal into your frame, secure, and hang!  

Use just a little dab of hot glue to apply the magnets to the back of your makeup containers and voila!  Attach them to the front of your board.  

Here is my final product...

I also took an old pill bottle, washed it out, covered it with zebra print tape and glued a magnet to the back of it.  Then I stored some of my smaller eyeshadow brushes in it.  I've also seen this done with baby food jars and plastic cups.  The possibilities are endless!

You can find lots of different variations of these boards if you Google or search Pinterest for "magnetic makeup board".  So many great ideas have surfaced since I did mine, so I'm actually thinking of re-doing it soon!