Lap Boards: The Pros, Cons & Alternatives

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses various opinions and experiences related to the use of lap boards among Pampered Chef consultants. Participants share their preferences for homemade versus purchased lap boards, as well as the practicality and aesthetics of each option.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses a strong preference for purchased lap boards, noting their professional appearance and convenience.
  • Another participant shares their experience using homemade lap boards, highlighting their effectiveness and cost savings.
  • Several users mention that lap boards provide a better writing surface for guests compared to folders or clipboards.
  • One participant discusses the weight of purchased lap boards when combined with other materials, suggesting a desire to minimize what they carry.
  • Another participant notes that they have received positive feedback from customers regarding the appearance of their lap boards.
  • Some participants express differing opinions on the cost of lap boards, with some finding them reasonably priced while others believe homemade options are more economical.
  • One participant mentions using cut-up binders as a DIY solution, indicating satisfaction with this approach.
  • Several participants inquire about additional features for lap boards, such as clips or pockets for organization.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the cost-effectiveness of homemade versus purchased lap boards, with no clear consensus emerging on which option is superior.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences, reflecting a variety of approaches to using lap boards in their consulting practices.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants exploring options for lap boards may find the shared experiences and preferences helpful in deciding which type to use for their shows.

I like the "like what you see, but your wallet says no, collect 6 orders and call it a show" that one is catchy... they also have the one that has 4 different sayings, that's what i probably would have done if I didn't just get some :)
 
I really like that one, and I also saw another one that had booking and recruiting sayings on the same pen but I can't remember what it said now.

Do you think you will get people with 6 small orders thinking it will qualify as a show??
 
I think that the saying would be enough to intrique them and then you could tell them a bit more about it when they are checking out... I just think it is catchy.
 
Okay....Ok I got my lapboards today!! I am so excited!! AND I have a show March 10, so I will get to use them soon!! They look so professional!! I cannot wait to get them loaded up and ready to go!!
 
hoosierchef said:
Ok, so here is another question for those of you who make your own. Do you use any type of clip to keep the catalogs in place until you hand them out?? I was looking at the lapboards from http://www.expressyourselfonline.com/ . I kind of like the pocket and the pen holder on theirs.


I bought the ones from Express Yourself Online. I love them and they were cheaper than Merrill. I got the black ones. A friend of mine borrowed them for one of her shows and ordered the red ones for herself. I think you can also get them in green and blue. I also received two pages of stickers for free due to the monthly promo they had.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #66
Brigitte said:
I bought the ones from Express Yourself Online. I love them and they were cheaper than Merrill. I got the black ones. A friend of mine borrowed them for one of her shows and ordered the red ones for herself. I think you can also get them in green and blue. I also received two pages of stickers for free due to the monthly promo they had.

Yep I got those exact ones too! Everyone was impressed at my first show. I'm excited to dig them out for my show tonight. I loved the stickers they sent too......

I put my label on one corner at the top and a sticker that says, "If the checkbook is low, then book a show!" on the other!!

I really liked the idea of the black lapboards as hopefully they will hide marks/dirt.
 
gilliandanielle said:
I really like that one, and I also saw another one that had booking and recruiting sayings on the same pen but I can't remember what it said now.

Do you think you will get people with 6 small orders thinking it will qualify as a show??

The quote about 6 orders is an old one - it dates back to the old points system, when a qualifying show was 5 orders (plus the host = 6 orders) OR $150...when we went to the Free Product $$, it changed to just $150 to qualify as a show. I think it might be a bit deceptive to tell people if they collect 6 orders it's a show...and I think one reason they changed it is because people were manipulating the system (NO!:eek: ) to call orders a show.
 
Seriously? You don't think that you can find 6 orders to total $150? See, there's my snottiness coming out again...I feel like that should NOT be a challenge...
 
My show last night, was $134 in sales (before shipping & tax...there were 6 orders!!, YIKES) THANKFULLY she is pushing some catty's around & closing the show Friday...she says she has 7-9 people wanting to order.

I did the decorate your banana, FUN, FUN, FUN! I knew this show wasnt going to be a HUGE sales show, so thats why I went ahead & tried something new w/ the theme, got an email from a guest today saying she had been to 3 PC shows lately, & had a blast at mine :p :p Most of my guests just didnt have a lot of cashola :)
 
ChefBeckyD said:
The quote about 6 orders is an old one - it dates back to the old points system, when a qualifying show was 5 orders (plus the host = 6 orders) OR $150...when we went to the Free Product $$, it changed to just $150 to qualify as a show. I think it might be a bit deceptive to tell people if they collect 6 orders it's a show.

That's why I got rid of these stickers once we made the change. It would seem that 6 orders should be $150 but if it's not, you're going to have some angry hosts on your hands.
 
BTW, I now know that the Merrill lapboards will fit the 3-ply itemized forms. Will the Express Yourself boards hold them without problems? I think those boards may be priced better.

Thanks for your help!
 
I use homemade lapboards & maybe someday will use Merrill's to look a little more professional.

On a side note, I still put on every catalog a sticker that says collect 6 orders and get something free. It does not say it will be a show so if I ever have someone come to me with 6 orders that does not qualify as a show then they will get something free from me like a Season's Best. If anyone comes up with a new catchy sticker for that type of idea, I would love to see it.

Thanks
 
  • Thread starter
  • #73
chefjeanine said:
BTW, I now know that the Merrill lapboards will fit the 3-ply itemized forms. Will the Express Yourself boards hold them without problems? I think those boards may be priced better.

Thanks for your help!

I have had to Fold the receipt over on the perferation (sp?) but that hasn't caused any problems for me yet! Everyone has been really impressed by them too!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are lap boards and how are they used in direct sales?

Lap boards are portable, flat surfaces designed for use on laps, typically used for writing, crafting, or serving food. In direct sales, particularly with companies like Pampered Chef, they can be showcased as versatile tools for cooking demonstrations, parties, or as gifts, highlighting their practicality and convenience.

What are the pros of using lap boards?

The pros of using lap boards include their portability, ease of cleaning, and versatility. They provide a stable surface for various activities, from meal prep to crafting, and can be easily transported to parties or gatherings. Additionally, many lap boards are designed with features like built-in handles or compartments for added convenience.

What are the cons of lap boards?

Some cons of lap boards include their potential lack of stability on uneven surfaces and limited size, which may not accommodate larger projects or meals. Additionally, if made from lower-quality materials, they may not be as durable over time. Users may also find that they require additional accessories, like cushions or trays, for optimal comfort and functionality.

What are some alternatives to lap boards?

Alternatives to lap boards include traditional serving trays, portable tables, or lap desks that offer additional features like storage or adjustable heights. Some people may also opt for large cutting boards or even foldable picnic tables, depending on their specific needs and the activities they plan to engage in.

How can I choose the right lap board for my needs?

To choose the right lap board, consider factors such as size, material, and intended use. Look for boards that are lightweight yet sturdy, easy to clean, and have features that suit your activities, such as handles or non-slip surfaces. Reading reviews and comparing different brands can also help you make an informed decision.

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