Hobbies And Interests
Subject Matter
Picking a subject for a 4-H project can be one of the most important aspects when making a display board. Pick a subject that will give you enough material and research opportunities and one that you enjoy or are familiar with. Use ideas that feature subject matter that goes with the 4-H theme. Topics could include feeding beef animals, how to care for flowers, how to recognize a healthy calf, how to be safe with knives, how to train a colt or different sanding techniques.
Organization
You want your board to be readable but still present the necessary information. Organize your board so that it reads easily, with large titles which can be read 6 to 10 feet away and smaller, more detailed text under the titles. Use pictures and graphics which go with your subject material and bring visual interest to the display board. Don't overcrowd your board with information and pictures, but leave some negative space, much like a page of a book does. Lay out your material onto the board before gluing it in place to make sure you have everything the way you want it.
Materials and Colors
Bring some more attention to your display board by using the right combination of colors. Use one color with your black and white text or two to three extra colors. You don't want the display board to have too many colors which may distract readers from the actual subject. Knowing where your board will be displayed should also have an influence on what type of board to buy. For example if the display boards will be standing on their own, opt for a tri-fold board; if the projects will be hung on a wall, poster board or mat board may be best.
Other Details
Double-checking your display board before you turn it in can help you catch small or even large mistakes that you may have missed. Make sure you have your facts right. For example if you did a project on fly fishing, make sure you have used all the correct terminology. Check your spelling and grammar usage by reading all the text out loud to someone else. Check all this before you glue any of it onto the board.