Chalk Talk
Placed by the phone, this blackboard message centre is sure to keep schedules current.

Turn a six-pane window frame into a weekly calendar. Paint it white to freshen the look, as we did here [top], or leave it with its charming rustic patina. If the glass is in good shape, simply trim with masking tape and paint with blackboard paint. Remove the tape and let it dry. If the glass is a goner, cut a piece of 3mm Supawood to fit the panes and paint each with blackboard paint. Then install them in each opening.

Picture-Perfect Message Centre
Just a shade darker than the wall, this frame is noticeable without being intrusive.

Paint a flea-market frame one shade darker than the wall where it will reside. Measure the frame opening and cut a piece of cork 5mm smaller than that measurement. Using a glue gun, cover the board with a piece of coordinating fabric. Edge the fabric-covered cork with contrasting piping; glue in place. Then glue the piece inside the frame opening, and the message board is ready to hang on the wall
 

Simple Shutter Organizer
This organizer is an in-and-out mailbox, an appointment-card collector, and a picture display.

For an instant organizer, simply hang an old shutter on the wall. Tack a piece of painted cardboard to the back of the shutter so letters, appointment cards, and notes won't fall down between the wall and the shutter. And if you want to fresh up the look, simply sand down the rough spots and spray paint the shutter of your choice. Hanging the shutter next to a window, the way it is shown here, makes this a window treatment that's infinitely useable!