{let's talk sheet metal!} message center and more...

Sheet metal has been around forever, but that's because of its versatility and vast decor organizational possibilities. I have used it over and over in projects, and I'm never disappointed.

This time around, I used it for a message center for my kitchen desk area, to replace a smaller version. I don't have much space, and I needed  to have a place to clip up checks to be deposited, wedding announcements, cards, pictures, and all that kind of stuff. The one I was using just wasn't big enough, but I still needed something that would fit in my limited space. Well, you all know my love for old windows, and I seriously have about 10 of them in my garage, lol.  Lo and behold, I had one that was the perfect size :)

 
How I did it:

*Used Liquid Nail Small Projects (a clear adhesive) to apply the sheet metal to the window, and let cure for 48 hours.

*Used my Silhouette to cut out vinyl letters and dashes (font = My Own Topher) to separate the categories, then applied them. I also added some vinyl to the bottom of the window, since it needed a little something.

That's it!  So easy, and minus the drying time, a 15 minute project.

 If you've never used sheet metal, you really must try it--you will love it!

So, let's talk sheet metal...

{Where do you get it?}

I always order mine from a local sheet metal company. It's so easy, and the product is super durable and fantastic quality.  I let them know the size that I want, and they will cut it precisely.  For this project, I needed it to be 23 7/16 inches, and it was!  It's a huge advantage to use a company like this--they can literally cut it in whatever size you need--big or small. The edges are also shaved down to prevent it from being really sharp.  It's definitely worth the time to see if you have one in your area.

You can also get it at Home Depot for about $8 (for 2x3 piece), near the plumbing area or with the air duct supplies.  It looks like this:

(image courtesy Less Than Perfect Life of Bliss)

You'll need to cut it to size on your own, using tin snips.  USE GLOVES, because the edges will be very sharp.

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{What can you do with it?}

*Organization*

This is my favorite way to use it.  :)  Did you know that sheet metal can also be used as a dry erase board? This means that it can be fantastic in offices, kitchens, and even in playrooms.  It can be applied to many different surfaces, including wood and glass.  I used an old window, but you could use a frame and apply it to that glass.

I like this command center by Landee See, Landee Do:

and this Family Organizational Board by The Idea Room:

How about turning a drawer into a magnet board?

What a great idea to mount it inside your cabinet, and use it as a spice rack!  I love this one by IHeart Organizing:

These fabulous ideas just give you an idea of what's possible...

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*Kids*

Sheet metal is perfect in playrooms, kids' rooms, or other "kid" areas. I have a giant framed sheet metal/magnet board in my basement, and my kids love it.

What about the kitchen?  I have a friend who did one in her kitchen, and put all the fun kid magnets in it.  It's in a place where they won't be underfoot while she's cooking, but they can be in the kitchen with her.  Let's face it--kids like to be where mom is!

Here's a fabulous playroom using sheet metal by Girl in Air:

I love this idea too:

Kids love magnets and magnet boards, and making your own is easy and relatively inexpensive!

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*Decor*

There really are so many fun ideas out there right now, using sheet metal in home decor.  

I ADORE this table by VanHook & Co:

You can cover it with fabric, paper, and paint to drastically change it's appearance, while maintaining the magnetic quality.  

What a fun memo board using fabric, by Thrifty Decor Chick!

This sheet metal magnet board by Crafty Nest is both functional and decorative:

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The best part is that you can make it fit your own space and style--have fun!