Is Lapboard Investment Worth it? Evaluating Value of 12 Purchases

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores the value of investing in lapboards, particularly those from Merrill, as well as alternatives such as homemade versions. Participants share their experiences and opinions regarding the aesthetics, functionality, and cost-effectiveness of these products.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses uncertainty about the worth of purchasing 12 lapboards.
  • Another participant shares an idea for making homemade lapboards from binders, noting it could be a cheaper option.
  • Several users mention that they appreciate the professional appearance of the Merrill lapboards.
  • One participant states they prefer using dollar store clipboards instead of investing in lapboards.
  • Another participant discusses the cost breakdown of the Merrill lapboards, expressing hesitation about their investment.
  • One participant shares their satisfaction with the Merrill lapboards, highlighting their professional look and functionality.
  • Another participant mentions the time and effort involved in making homemade lapboards, suggesting that the investment in Merrill lapboards may be worthwhile.
  • One participant reflects on their past experience with homemade lapboards, stating they found them unprofessional compared to the Merrill ones.
  • Several participants note that their customers appreciate the lapboards during shows.
  • One participant mentions the challenge of maintaining the appearance of the lapboards after use.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the value of purchasing Merrill lapboards versus making homemade versions. Some participants favor the professional look of the Merrill lapboards, while others advocate for the cost-saving potential of DIY options. No clear consensus emerges on whether the investment is justified.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences related to lapboards, focusing on their use in business settings and customer interactions. The discussion reflects varying levels of experience among participants in the consultant community.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants considering the purchase of lapboards or exploring alternatives may find the shared experiences and opinions relevant to their decision-making process.

sk8rgrrl99
sk8rgrrl99
Messages
493
For those that have the lapboards, do you find them to be worth the price? I'm considering buying 12 of them....
 
Sarah - an idea you may want to consider - that many others have posted about previously is making your own lapboards by cutting the front and back cover off 3-ring binders. It's cheaper than purchasing the ones from Merrill (esp. at the beg. of school sales) People say they serve the same function.
Just an idea! If you need more info. you might try searching the archives. I know I've read several posts about this before.
Jen
 
I love the ones from merrill and they are super nice and clean and very professional looking.
 
I just use the dollar store clip boards.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
I looked for clip boards at the dollar store and couldn't find them. I like the idea of the logo on the Merrill ones too. When you break it down they are $2.66 each. Can you really make them cheaper? I'm SO on the fence!! lol.
 
sk8rgrrl99 said:
I looked for clip boards at the dollar store and couldn't find them. I like the idea of the logo on the Merrill ones too. When you break it down they are $2.66 each. Can you really make them cheaper? I'm SO on the fence!! lol.
Click to expand...

Yes, you can make them cheaper, however, you are right, it is like comparing apples to oranges. The home made ones aren't going to look as nice, logo, edges, etc.
 
Office depot sells a box of 12 white 1" binders (view) for $13.99. When you cut them apart, which I do carefully with a box cutter or x-acto knife right down the spine of the notebook (I use a ruler as a guide for the edge), you get 24 for $.60 apeice (roughly). I do a new batch about every 2-3 years. If you are careful you can cut them easily. If you miss an edge you can touch it up by gluing a small bead of elmers along the edge.
 
BlessedWifeMommy said:
Yes, you can make them cheaper, however, you are right, it is like comparing apples to oranges. The home made ones aren't going to look as nice, logo, edges, etc.
Click to expand...

you should also consider the time it takes to make them. I hesitated for 3 years on buying the lapboards - so glad I did, I love them! They are heavy though :(
 
pamperedlinda said:
you should also consider the time it takes to make them. I hesitated for 3 years on buying the lapboards - so glad I did, I love them! They are heavy though :(
Click to expand...

My customers appreciate the lapboards. I used a 2 pocket folder before with brads in the middle to put fliers in. I got tired of shifting the fliers around. I ditto: the boards are heavy to tote around.
 
I have 15 of them and love them! I bought the Merrill ones after doing some looking around. They are very professional looking and work great. I had tried to cut my own from binders but wasn't satisfied with the results. Too sloppy and not very professional. They only thing I wish that Merrill offered were black ones. I had a 4 year old write on mine twice at two different parties. I tried taking it off with a Magic Eraser but it hasn't worked yet. I use the cranberry tote we earned last year at conference to carry mine. Perfect for carrying them and all my other paperwork for my parties.
 
Based on what I'm reading I'm going to go with the Merrill lapboards...I'm talking myself into it by reminding myself that instead of the car decal I'm getting a car magnet from Vista. Moms can rationalize anything, lolETA: I know Merrill was having a 10% off sale but was that in April or is it May? I can't remember where I read it.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
I'm not sure about the sale. I should get on their email list so I can get the sales. I think I've decided I am buying them!! And I did the same thing with vista print car magnets. I just got one for now and I'm going to put it on the rear lift-gate. (I have a hatch back style car so the back is flat.) Now I need to figure out how I will carry my heavy new lapboards. ;)
 
I think it was a CC email...hang on Sarah, let's see if I can find where I read it for both of us! :D
 
Merrill had 10% off personalized items for April only. They are offering free shipping with an order over $75 right now.
 
Thanks WG! Bummer tho....
 
i don't know why they came out with the white lap boards....mine are black i bought them 3 1/2 years ago off a consultant who was getting out of the biz... I love them...they are heavy i have 12 but my customers do appreciate them especially when you have a big show and people are using their laps to write on...i bring extra cattys and leave them on the tables were people have an obvious place to fill out their orders..I don't think you will regret the purchase...
 
I made mine when I started nearly 4 years ago - they are black - I get plenty of compliments and they don't show dirt. I know I got the binders for around $1 a piece at the time so I feel they have been money well spent (and it was easy to cut them into two lapboards from one binder). I definitely like having lapboards for my guests especially since they often don't have a table in front of them to write on.
 
Here's where I orderd mine...and other goodies
Specialty Items
Don't like white...gets dirty

nancy
 
  • Thread starter
  • #19
Oh wow, those are nice too!! I was worried about the white too but I decided to go ahead with the Pampered Chef ones.
 
jross93 said:
Sarah - an idea you may want to consider - that many others have posted about previously is making your own lapboards by cutting the front and back cover off 3-ring binders. It's cheaper than purchasing the ones from Merrill (esp. at the beg. of school sales) People say they serve the same function.
Just an idea! If you need more info. you might try searching the archives. I know I've read several posts about this before.
Jen
Click to expand...

I did this in the past and looking at them now I realize how I really wasted money b/c of how unprofessional they look. I have started back up and am pretty sure I'm not going to use them b/c of how they look :(

I would say if you can make the investment go for it! If down the road you don't want them I'm sure they would be picked up by someone super fast :thumbup:
 
mbh06 said:
I did this in the past and looking at them now I realize how I really wasted money b/c of how unprofessional they look. I have started back up and am pretty sure I'm not going to use them b/c of how they look :(

I would say if you can make the investment go for it! If down the road you don't want them I'm sure they would be picked up by someone super fast :thumbup:
Click to expand...

I think mine look very professional and get lots of compliments!! I did buy white (only in the biz 6 months, but they still look great). I usually slide in a flyer of some sort in that back pocket and they look great!
 
mscharf said:
I think mine look very professional and get lots of compliments!! I did buy white (only in the biz 6 months, but they still look great). I usually slide in a flyer of some sort in that back pocket and they look great!
Click to expand...

You must be much better at cutting that I am :blushing:
 
wadesgirl said:
I have 15 of them and love them! I bought the Merrill ones after doing some looking around. They are very professional looking and work great. I had tried to cut my own from binders but wasn't satisfied with the results. Too sloppy and not very professional. They only thing I wish that Merrill offered were black ones. I had a 4 year old write on mine twice at two different parties. I tried taking it off with a Magic Eraser but it hasn't worked yet. I use the cranberry tote we earned last year at conference to carry mine. Perfect for carrying them and all my other paperwork for my parties.
Click to expand...

You could announce the "special" lapboard at your shows and whoever is the lucky user gets free shipping!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Lapboard Investment in the context of Pampered Chef?

A Lapboard Investment refers to the purchase of a specific set of products or tools from Pampered Chef that are designed to enhance the cooking and serving experience. This investment typically includes items that can be used for various cooking tasks, making them versatile and valuable for both personal use and for demonstrating during sales events.

How do I evaluate the worth of a Lapboard Investment?

To evaluate the worth of a Lapboard Investment, consider factors such as the quality and versatility of the products, how often you will use them, their potential to enhance your cooking experience, and their effectiveness in helping you sell during parties. Additionally, assess the return on investment by comparing the cost of the Lapboard to the potential earnings from sales generated using these products.

What are the benefits of purchasing a Lapboard Investment?

The benefits of purchasing a Lapboard Investment include access to high-quality kitchen tools that can improve your cooking efficiency, the ability to showcase these products during Pampered Chef parties, and the potential to increase your sales and commissions. Furthermore, having a well-rounded selection of products can enhance your reputation as a knowledgeable consultant.

Are there any drawbacks to investing in a Lapboard?

Some potential drawbacks of investing in a Lapboard may include the initial cost, which can be significant, especially if you are just starting in direct sales. Additionally, if the products do not align with your personal cooking style or if you do not frequently host parties, the investment may not yield the expected returns. It's important to assess your personal needs and sales strategy before making a purchase.

How can I maximize the value of my Lapboard Investment?

To maximize the value of your Lapboard Investment, use the products regularly to become familiar with their features and benefits, which will help you effectively demonstrate them during sales events. Additionally, consider hosting cooking demonstrations or classes to showcase the products, engage your audience, and encourage sales. Staying active in the Pampered Chef community can also provide tips and strategies for maximizing your investment.

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