This project was built and designed by Jay Bates. It’s a simple and effective easel that features a chalkboard on one side and a clipboard on the other, offering children a space to draw, write, and explore their creativity.
Designed to be built in a single day, this project uses basic tools and repurposed materials, making it a great weekend woodworking task. It’s both kid-friendly and budget-conscious—ideal for families, classrooms, or craft spaces.
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A Flexible, Multi-Use Design
The easel’s biggest strength is its versatility. By offering two usable surfaces—a chalkboard and a clipboard—it opens up different ways for children to engage with it, from doodling to structured educational activities.
Rather than fixing paper permanently to the frame, Jay’s design allows for different media to be swapped in and out easily. This keeps the easel adaptable for a growing child’s interests and eliminates the need for single-use art surfaces.
Repurposing Materials for a Smarter Build
Jay built the easel using a reclaimed piece of plywood from a retired bench hook. This not only gives new life to older materials but also keeps the project cost low and reduces waste.
By showing how scrap wood can be reused effectively, this project also becomes a subtle lesson in sustainability—something parents and kids alike can appreciate. The plywood had visible signs of wear, but it was still strong and flat, making it ideal for this kind of project.
A Clean Workspace for Kids
One thoughtful detail in the easel’s design is the addition of a lip at the bottom. This ledge prevents pencils, crayons, and chalk from rolling off, helping kids keep their tools close at hand.
It also allows debris—like pencil shavings or chalk dust—to fall to the floor instead of gathering on the surface. That makes clean-up easier and keeps the workspace tidy for the next use.
Simple Cuts and Easy Assembly
Jay starts by sizing the plywood into two equal panels, forming the chalkboard and clipboard faces. These are joined together with a top support that acts like a hinge, allowing the easel to stand open while remaining stable.
The lip at the bottom is also cut from the leftover section of the original plywood. This shows how scrap pieces can be used thoughtfully without needing extra material or special hardware.
Once all pieces are cut, everything is sanded thoroughly—especially the edges. Since this is meant for children, smooth surfaces are important to prevent splinters or sharp corners.
Safety and Finishing
With the sanding complete, the easel can be sealed or painted to improve durability. Jay doesn’t go into great detail on the finish, but for any child-focused project, it’s a good idea to use non-toxic products.
Chalkboard paint can be applied to one side, while the other is left smooth for clamping paper or art projects. A few basic clamps or clips turn that second side into a functional clipboard that can hold anything from sketches to schoolwork.
Built to Inspire Creativity
This easel may be a simple structure, but it encourages hours of creative engagement. Whether it’s used for drawing, writing, or pretend play, having a dedicated art space helps kids take ownership of their learning environment.
And because it’s compact and portable, it can be moved from room to room or even outside for sunny-day activities. It’s a build that keeps on giving, long after the last screw is driven.
Other Projects Worth Exploring
Jay has created many other child-friendly builds, including a small table and chairs set and a dry erase board. This easel fits into that same family of functional projects that are easy to make, easy to use, and great for everyday life.
Additional builds like his half-lap bookshelf or slab coffee table show just how much range Jay brings to his channel. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a quick weekend project, his designs are always worth checking out.
A Great Use of a Single Day
With just a few tools and a couple of hours, this easel can be built from start to finish in a single day. That makes it a satisfying project for parents, grandparents, or anyone wanting to give a handmade gift to a child.
It’s a fun, approachable build that doesn’t skimp on practical value—and it looks great when finished. The use of recycled wood, the dual-purpose design, and the ease of assembly all come together to make this project a winner.
Please support Jay by purchasing his plans here: Jay’s Custom Creations.