During the summer, there's nothing I enjoy more than laying outside, taking in the summer rays. But this summer, thanks to my most-visited website: Pinterest, I've been inspired to be a little crafty and make something useful. Because what's more chic than creating something beautiful and useful that costs less than the actual thing? (Okay, maybe a lot of things, but let's call this "crafty chic.")

So here's something that is customizable, reusable, and can cost under $5: a paint sample calendar.

What you'll need: 

  • a frame (I got this one from Ikea for $4. The size is 13.5 x 17.5 but feel free to go bigger if you'd like more space. 16 x 20 is another great size -- you can find that sized frames here or check out this simple one from JoAnn on sale for $7.99, and this 2-pack from Target.)
  • paint samples in colors you choose (free from your nearest paint or hardware store.)
  • poster board for the background - I chose white
  • glue
  • a straight edge, ruler and a pencil if you're a perfectionist like me

What to do:

  1. Take your chosen colors and trim them to the size you want. Keep in mind you'll need 7 colors to comfortably fit from left to right and that the labels for the days of the week will be smaller than the calendar days. I chose to keep the paint sample names within my little squares because I thought it'd add a nice touch, but it's totally up to you!
  2. Trim your poster board to the size of the frame and glue your paint samples to it, however you desire. I chose an ombre look for specific days of the week. A single color ombre or mixed colors look great too!
  3. Place your finished calendar inside the frame and use your dry erase marker to label the days and dates.
  4. Enjoy your cute (and one-of-a-kind) calendar!