Teacher Appreciation Week always sneaks up, and I don’t like scrambling for something last minute that feels thrown together. This is one of those projects I keep in rotation because it’s simple, it looks good, and it’s actually useful. Teachers use clipboards all day, walking the classroom, organizing papers, grading, so this isn’t something that ends up sitting on a desk or getting tucked away somewhere. I’m sharing how easy this project is, including a free template so let’s get started!
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How to Make a Personalized Teacher Clipboard
I used the PYD Life hardboard sublimation clipboards for this project along with my Epson F570, sublimation paper, heat resistant tape, and a Heat Press.
I also created a teacher-themed design with space to add a name, and I’m sharing it as an editable Canva template with Studio Letter sign-up, see it below. It’s already sized to the clipboard template, so you can open it, update the name, and print without having to set anything up.
See the step by step video on my YouTube Channel!
Supplies I Used
- PYD Life hardboard sublimation clipboard
- Epson F570 sublimation printer
- sublimation paper
- Heat Press
- Heat resistant tape
- Lint roller
- Butcher paper
- Heat resistant gloves
Start With the Canva Template
After you sign up for the Studio Letter, you’ll get access to the Canva template for this design.
The file is already sized to match the manufacturer’s clipboard template, so there’s nothing to resize or adjust. Just open it and update the name.
Click directly on the name text box and type over it. If you need to adjust the size, drag from the corners so it stays proportional. Try to keep the name within the space provided so it doesn’t run into the design.
Everything else is already placed where it needs to be, so there’s no reason to move elements around. This keeps the final print aligned correctly on the clipboard.
Once you’re done, download your file as a PDF Print or PNG. Before printing, make sure your design is mirrored. If you skip that step, the name will press backwards.
Printing the Design
I printed mine on the Epson F570 using MakerFlo sublimation paper.
Since the template is already sized correctly, there’s no trimming involved. Once it prints, it’s ready to go.
Before moving on, take a quick look at your print. Check the color, spacing, and name placement. If something is off, it’s easier to fix it now than after it’s pressed.
Note: Having issues with your Epson 570 printing lines? Check out my Tutorial on how to fix it.
Prepping the Clipboard
If your clipboard has a protective film, peel that off first.
Run a lint roller over the surface to remove any dust or fibers. Anything left on the surface can show up after pressing.
Place your printed design face down onto the clipboard, lining it up with the edges based on the template.
Tape it in place with heat resistant tape. Since this is a larger blank, don’t just tape the corners, secure it so it can’t shift. If the paper moves during pressing, you’ll end up with ghosting.
Pressing
Set your Heat Press to 356°F for 120 seconds.
Layer your setup:
- Butcher paper
- Clipboard with design taped in place
- Butcher paper
Press, then remove carefully using heat resistant gloves.
Peel the paper off while it’s still warm.
After Pressing
These PYD Life clipboards press really nicely. The finish is smooth, and the colors come out vibrant without needing to adjust anything. As long as your design is set up correctly and your paper is secured, the results are consistent.
Add the Clipboard Hardware
Once the clipboard has cooled, attach the metal clip hardware that comes with it.
Line the clip up with the pre-drilled holes at the top of the board. Insert the screws and tighten them down.
Before fully tightening, make sure the clip is straight. Once it’s secure, test it to make sure it opens and closes smoothly.
If You’re Thinking About Selling These
This is the kind of project that makes sense to sell, especially around Teacher Appreciation Week and back-to-school. These packs are available in quantities of 6, 24 and 48 to support your sales!
If you want to build it out a little more, you can pair it with something simple like a pen, notepad, or bookmark. Nothing complicated, just enough to make it feel like a complete gift instead of a single item. It’s an easy add-on without changing your workflow. Need ideas? I have a full list of Teacher Appreciation Gift Ideas for you!
Access the Canva Template
To get the design, sign up for my Studio Letter. Once you confirm your email, you’ll get access to the Canva template so you can customize the name and print right away. The file is already sized for the clipboard, so you can skip setup and go straight to printing.
If you’re choosing projects based on what’s actually worth making, this is one to keep in rotation.
Happy Crafting!
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